Luckily the light was not extinct, and I lost no time in taking
possession of the document, which I considered of the most importance.
A number of loose papers, the contents of a huge trunk, were scattered
about; but my attention was more particularly directed to the paper
which had been the object of my uncle's visit to the Manor-house. To my
great joy, this was neither less nor more than my father's will,
witnessed and sealed in due form, wherein the possessions of my
ancestors were conveyed, absolutely and unconditionally, without entail,
unencumbered and unembarrassed, to me and to my assigns. I thought it
most likely that the papers in and about the trunk might be of use,
either as corroborative evidence, in case my uncle should choose to
litigate the point and brand the original document as a forgery, or as a
direct testimony to the validity of my claim. I was rather puzzled in
what manner to convey them from the place, so as not to excite
suspicion, should the two worthies return. I was pretty certain they
would not leave matters as they now stood when their fears were allayed,
and daylight would probably impart sufficient courage to induce them to
repeat their visit.
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