One of this author's novels features the discussion of a flowered carpet, which ends with Gradgrind chanting "fact, fact, fact!".  
One of this author's novels features the discussion of a flowered carpet, which ends with Gradgrind chanting "fact, fact, fact!".  In another of his works, Nell Trent dies after Daniel Quilp takes possession of the title locale from her gambling grandfather.  In addition to writing (*) Hard Times and The Old Curiosity Shop, this author wrote a novel whose protagonist befriends convict Abel Magwich and loves Estella, the ward of Miss Havisham. For ten points, name this English author who detailed the life of the orphan "Pip" in Great Expectations.
One of this author's novels features the discussion of a flowered carpet, which ends with Gradgrind chanting "fact, fact, fact!".  
Charles {Dickens}