Graves nodded. “Yes,” he answered, solemnly. “That is what I meant by saying your brother had not forgotten you or wished to forget you. In spite of the estrangement, it is evident that his confidence in your judgment and integrity was supreme. His children were his idols, Captain Warren, and he has left them in your charge.”
The captain’s pipe fell to the hearth.
“What?” he shouted. “Left his children to—to me! Mr. Graves, you’re—you’re out of your head—or I am!”
“No, I’m perfectly sane. I have a copy of the will here, and—”
He was interrupted by Miss Baker, who appeared at the door of the dining room. “Did you want me, ’Lisha?” she asked.
Her employer stared at her in a dazed, uncomprehending way.
“Want you?” he repeated. “Want you?”
“Yes; I heard you holler, and I thought p’raps you was callin’ me.”
“Hey? No, I don’t want you, Abbie.... Holler! I shouldn’t wonder! If all I did was holler, I’m surprised at myself. No, no! Run along out and shut the door. Yes, shut it.... Now, Mr. Graves, say that over again and say it slow.”
“I say that your brother has left his two children in your care until the youngest shall become of age—twenty-one. I have a copy of his will here, and—”