"That is a pity. But it doesn't alter my intention."
"And may I ask what that intention is?"
"To carry out the spirit of Mr. Kingsnorth's bequest."
"And what do you consider the spirit?"
"I think we will best carry out Mr. Kingsnorth's last wishes by making known the conditions of his bequest to Miss O'Connell and then let her decide whether she wishes to abide by them or not."
"As the late Mr. Kingsnorth's legal adviser, I must strongly object to such a course," protested the indignant lawyer.
"All the same, Mr. Hawkes, I feel compelled to take it, and I must ask you to act under my instructions."
"Really," exclaimed Mr. Hawkes; "I should much prefer to resign from my executorship."
"Nonsense. In the interests of all parties, we must act together and endeavour to carry out the dead man's wishes."
The lawyer considered a moment and then in a somewhat mollified tone, said: