S——, just arrived from the Indies, and so forth. Standing, Mr L—— made due obeisance.
"Sit down; sit down, Mr L——," cried my uncle. "You need not be bowing there for a job. Poor fellow, he has not much left to grease the paws of a lawyer. Well, sir, your errand?"
I came, Mr S——, respecting the Manor-house. Perhaps you would not have any objections to a tenant!"
"I cannot say just now. I have had some thoughts of pulling it down."
"Sir! you would not demolish a building, the growth of centuries—a family mansion—been in the descent since James's time. It would be barbarous. The antiques would be about your ears."
"I care nothing for the antiquities; and, moreover, I do not choose to let the house. Any further business with me this morning, sir?"
"Nothing of consequence—I only came about the house."
"Pray, Mr L——," said I, "what sort of a tenant have you in view;—one you could recommend? I think my uncle has more regard for the old mansion-house than comports with the outrage he threatens. The will says, if I read aright, that the house and property may be sold, should the executor see fit; but, as to pulling it down, I am sure my father never meant anything so deplorable. Allow me another glance at that paper."
"Please to observe, nephew, that the will makes it mine, and as such I have a right to dispose of the whole in such manner as I may deem best. If you have any doubts, I refer you to Mr L——, who sits smiling at your unlawyer-like opinions."
"Pray allow me one moment," said the curious attorney. He looked at the signature and those of the parties witnessing.