"For the sake of the memory of my dead sister, I will do as Nathaniel wished," said Mrs. Chichester with great dignity and self-abnegation.
Mr. Hawkes breathed a sigh of relief.
"Good!" he said. "I'm delighted. It is splendid. Now that you have decided so happily there is one thing more I must tell you. The young lady is not to be told the conditions of the will, unless at the discretion of the executors should, some crisis arise. She will be to all intents and purposes—your GUEST. In that way we may be able to arrive at a more exact knowledge of her character. Is that understood?"
The family signified severally and collectively that it was.
"And now," beamed the lawyer, happy at the fortunate outcome of a situation that a few moments before seemed so strained, "where is your bell?"
Alaric indicated the bell.
"May I ring?" asked the lawyer.
"Certainly," replied Alaric.
Mr. Hawkes rang.
Alaric watched him curiously: "Want a sandwich or something?"