'I am sorry to have to refuse you, Major Lester, but I promised your brother that that cupboard should remain closed till his son came to open it.'
Major Lester glared at her, but Agatha maintained her quiet composure.
'He must have been as mad as a hatter!' he muttered; then turned angrily to her.
'And may I ask when my nephew is to be back, as you seem fully conversant with the affairs of our family?'
'I do not know. Your brother thought he would return this year. Have you heard anything of your son?'
'My son has met his death by the hands of my nephew, at the instigation of his father! I warn you, Miss Dane, you may suffer the penalty of the law by refusing to let me have access to that cupboard. It is a mere question of time. If my nephew does not return soon, I shall insist upon having it opened, and I shall bring a lawyer with me to enforce my authority! I will not detain you longer now. Good-morning!' And Major Lester took his leave literally trembling with passion; so Agatha told her sisters afterwards.
'It is very unpleasant for us,' she added; 'I feel quite anxious lest Major Lester should insist upon having his way.'
'Have you nothing in writing from Mr. Lester himself about it?' asked Clare; 'I thought the lawyer sent you a written statement by him.'
'Yes, I have that; and, after all, the house is mine, and I suppose that includes the cupboard.'
'Of course it does. What did Mr. Lester say about the cupboard?'