"One of Mr. Toots's hardest trials, however, was of his own seeking. On the approach of the Sunday which was to witness the last of those askings in church of which the Captain had spoken, Mr. Toots thus stated his feelings to Susan Nipper."

Florence and Walter are to be married, but for several previous Sundays the clergyman asks if anyone knows a reason why the marriage should not take place. I can't remember the form thereof, but will search for it.

I couldnt find the wording of the "askings".