: is David's old nurse and his mother's housekeeper. Her primary characteristic, so far as we can see (besides the red, rough cheeks David keeps teasing her for) is her loyalty. Even though Mrs. Copperfield frequently yells at Peggotty, Peggotty never deserts her. Even though the Murdstones try to freeze Peggotty out of the house, she promises she "won't leave.