"Is that a legally constructed document?" he inquired.
Mr. Cavendish read it carefully, every word. He looked at the signatures. He looked at the blank page on the back. He looked at the tape with which it was bound. He fingered the knot with which it was tied. He folded it carefully, and handed it back.
"Yes—absolutely perfect," he said. "Of course I know nothing about the signatures. Is the assignor living?"
"That is precisely what I don't know," replied Mr. Belcher. "I supposed him to be dead for years. I have now reason to suspect that he is living."
"Have you been using these patents?
"Yes, and I've made piles of money on them."
"Is your right contested?"
"No; but I have reason to believe that it will be."
"What reason?" inquired Mr. Cavendish, sharply.
Mr. Belcher was puzzled.