"It is very peculiar," assented Mr. Bolby drily, "particularly when I tell you I don't know any of the three things you have stated--that is, the three things stated by you."
"Do you tell me, sir," asked the vicar in his ponderous manner, "that you don't know the name of this son?"
"No."
"Nor the name of his mother?"
"No."
"Nor his birthplace?"
"I give you my word of honour," said Mr. Bolby solemnly, "that I am absolutely ignorant of all these--of all these, my dear sir, I am ignorant absolutely."
All present looked at one another in blank astonishment, and it was some time before anyone could speak. Una was the first to recover, and at once addressed herself to the lawyer.
"If this is the case," she said slowly, "how is this unknown son to claim the estate?"
"Did you not hear the will read, my dear lady?" replied Mr. Bolby equably. "Did you not hear me read the will? The son must produce a letter written to him by his father, and also the seal ring of the family."