"All right!" Theodore went towards the door; "only I want to say one thing. Curtis has been here. Have you cut Mara out of your will?"
"Yes; although it is no business of yours. When she marries Akira, she will have plenty of money."
"Well, then, I suppose," said Theodore, shooting his arrow, "you know that Patricia and Basil are engaged?"
"Yes, I am aware of that, and I wish them joy."
"Aren't you angry, uncle?" Theodore was astounded.
"No. Why should I be? I like Patricia."
"I fancied you loved her and wished to marry her."
Colpster rolled over and glared fiercely. He was annoyed that his secret should have been discovered by Theodore, of all people, since he hated him so ardently. "I never did wish to marry Patricia," he said furiously, and telling a smooth lie. "I look upon her as a daughter. I have always looked upon her as a daughter. When Basil told me that she had consented to be his wife, I was delighted. I am delighted."
"Oh!" growled Theodore, wincing and thrusting his hands deep into his pockets; "so you brought Curtis over to alter your will!"
"Yes! I have left everything to Basil and Patricia!"