"That is easier said than done. Leigh seemed to have mislaid, or hidden it, very thoroughly. Inspector Lawson did not come across it, and I can't lay my hands on it nohow. And, remember, even when it is discovered, the legality of it has yet to be proved."
"If it is signed and witnessed properly I inherit," shouted Mallien, doggedly, and objecting, as such an illogical man would, to the mere shadow of a contradiction.
"Don't go too fast," said the Squire dryly. "There is such a thing as the Statute of Limitations."
"Oh, is there? And what deviltry is that?"
"A law which, in most cases, operates against the restoration of property devolving under a lost will, found--as this one has been--after so long a period of time."
"You talk like a book," sneered Mallien, uncomfortably, for here was an obstacle which he did not expect to meet. "And you will take advantage of this infernal Statute?"
"Why not?" demanded Rupert, calmly. "Would you not do the same under the same circumstances?"
"I prefer not to enter into any argument on that point," said Mallien loftily. "It seems to be a silly law. And what about not keeping what isn't your own."
"If the Statute of Limitations acts in my favor, the property would be my own," answered the Squire coolly.
"Hair-splitting!"