"
"Pray, Mr L----," said I, "what sort of a tenant have you in view;--one
you could recommend? I think my uncle has more regard for the old
mansion-house than comports with the outrage he threatens. The will
says, if I read aright, that the house and property may be sold, should
the executor see fit; but, as to pulling it down, I am sure my father
never meant anything so deplorable. Allow me another glance at that
paper."
"Please to observe, nephew, that the will makes it mine, and as such I
have a right to dispose of the whole in such manner as I may deem best.
If you have any doubts, I refer you to Mr L----, who sits smiling at
your unlawyer-like opinions."
"Pray allow me one moment," said the curious attorney. He looked at the
signature and those of the parties witnessing.
"Martha S----; your late sister, I presume?"
My uncle nodded assent.
"Gilbert Hodgon--your servant?"
"The same. To what purpose, sir, are these questions?" angrily inquired
my uncle.
"Merely matters of form--a habit we lawyers cannot easily throw aside
whenever we get a sight of musty parchments. I hope you will pardon my
freedom?"
"Oh! as for that you are welcome to ask as many questions as you think
proper; they will be easily answered, I take it.
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