"Only with great difficulty, I am afraid. And in any event, the issue is uncertain. As I understand, you are in a position to prove very little. Conjecture will not satisfy a jury, and even that must be based on a set of circumstances that will not help your case."
"Well, what do you advise?" asked Edward Ambrose.
"I should be inclined to let matters take their course for the present. As she appears to be drinking heavily, it is not unreasonable to hope that in time things may adjust themselves automatically."
"But in the meantime how can she be kept from making herself objectionable?"
"If you care to leave that to us, I think a way may be found."
"By paying her a sum weekly?" suggested Edward Ambrose. "And by threatening to withdraw it if she doesn't behave herself?"
"I don't think it will be necessary to do that."
However, the young man felt it to be his duty to keep her from the gutter, which seemed to be her present destination.
"That is for you to consider," said Mr. Mortimer. "In my judgment, you are under no obligation to provide for her, but if on grounds of humanity you wish to do so, let no one dissuade you."
Edward Ambrose agreed.