"Here is a copy of the will; read for yourself. My friend, Silvanus Tellworthy, remembered you as a friend of his early days and as a man of probity. He had heard also, from time to time, news of your public actions that increased his esteem. He was informed—pardon me if I mention it—of your sincere and honourable affection for his niece; and, indeed, hoped, I may say—"
"No more on that point, if you please."
"Sir, I am silent, and ask your pardon."
"But—but—Doctor, this is simply astounding. Do you hear what this gentleman says?—that I—I alone—am Tristram's guardian after all?"
Mr. Finch and Dr. Beckerleg exchanged an anxious look. The Doctor cleared his throat and took up the story.
"No, my dear Captain, I regret that you make one mistake. You said 'alone.'"
"What? Is there another trustee?"
"There is the man already mentioned—Roderick Salt."
"Tut, tut—he's dead."
"I fear, on the contrary, that he's alive."