"My plan was to wait until you did get your inheritance; but I see some disadvantages," said Stannard in a thoughtful voice.
"The trouble is, I might not inherit," Jimmy agreed. "One must front things, and climbing's a risky hobby. We mean to shoot a mountain sheep and I understand the big-horn keep the high rocks. Then we have undertaken to get up a very awkward peak. Well, suppose I did not come back?"
"You don't expect a fresh accident! Haven't you had enough? However, if your gloomy forebodings were justified, I expect your relations would meet my claim."
"After all, mountaineering accidents are numerous, and you don't know Dick Leyland. You have got a bundle of acknowledgments, but the notes are not stamped and Dick hates gambling. It's possible he'd dispute my debts and he's a remarkably keen business man."
"If that is so, it might be awkward," Stannard agreed. "But what about the other trustee?"
"Sir James is in India; I expect he'd support Dick. During their lifetime my share is a third of the house's profit, but, unless they're satisfied, I cannot for some time use much control. In fact, they have power to fix my allowance."
Stannard's look was thoughtful, as if he had not known; but since Laura knew, Jimmy wondered why she had not enlightened her father.
"Very well," said Stannard. "My plan might not work. Have you another?"
The other plan was obvious. Jimmy was surprised because Stannard did not see it.
"You trusted me and I mustn't let you down," he said with a friendly smile. "If we insure my life, you'll guard against all risk."