"Yes, it is, sir, to honest people!" she cried out. "My brother and uncle
will respect it as Mrs. Newcome's dying wish. They must respect it."
The paper in question was a letter in ink that had grown yellow from
time, and was addressed by the late Mrs. Newcome, to "my dear Mr. Luce."
"That was her solicitor, my solicitor still," interposes Miss Ethel.
"THE HERMITAGE, March 14, 182-.
"My Dear Mr. Luce" (the defunct lady wrote)--"My late husband's grandson
has been staying with me lately, and is a most pleasing, handsome, and
engaging little boy. He bears a strong likeness to his grandfather, I
think; and though he has no claims upon me, and I know is sufficiently
provided for by his father Lieutenant-Colonel Newcome, C.B., of the East
India Company's Service, I am sure my late dear husband will be pleased
that I should leave his grandson, Clive Newcome, a token of peace and
goodwill; and I can do so with the more readiness, as it has pleased
Heaven greatly to increase my means since my husband was called away
hence.
Pages:
1773
1774
1775
1776
1777
1778
1779
1780
1781
1782
1783
1784
1785
1786
1787
1788
1789
1790
1791
1792
1793
1794
1795
1796
1797