Mason reached out and took the folded paper from Waid’s hand. Sabin crossed over to look over the lawyer’s shoulder.
“This,” Mason said, as he examined the printed form with the certification attached to it, “appears to be in proper form.”
“It was passed on by the New York lawyers,” Waid said.
Mrs. Sabin chuckled.
Sabin said, “In that event this woman isn’t my father’s widow. As I take it, Mr. Mason, under those circumstances she isn’t entitled to share in any part of the estate — that is, unless there’s a specific devise or bequest in a will.”
Mrs. Sabin’s chuckle became harsh, mocking laughter. “Your lawyer isn’t saying anything,” she said. “You overplayed your hand, Charles; you killed him too soon.”
“ I killed him!” Charles Sabin exclaimed.
“You heard what I said.”
“Moms,” Steve Watkins pleaded, “please be careful of what you say.”
“I’m more than careful,” she said, “I’m truthful. Go ahead, Mr. Mason, why don’t you tell them the bad news.”