"My fortune is not nearly so large as is generally supposed; I have had great losses of late. But there is still enough for us both—that is to say, if your share is under your own management and not Jörgen's. I write on the supposition that you will now marry.
"Mrs. Dawes's will has been in my hands for many years, and I have had charge of her money. I opened the will yesterday. She has left everything to you. This means about 60,000 kroner. But the same holds good of this money as of your father's; it is for the moment yielding almost no interest.
"Your godfather,
"Klaus Krog."
Mary answered at once:
"My dear Godfather,—Your letter has touched me deeply. I thank you with all my heart.
"But I dare not accept your generous gift.
"Jörgen is your adopted son, and on no account will I stand in his way.
"You must not be angry with me for this. I cannot possibly act differently.
"In the matter of Mrs. Dawes's will, I shall come to a decision ere long, and shall then write to you again.