“Indeed!” she said, sarcastically. “You surprise me, Mr. Knowles. What became of the money, may I ask? I understand that my grandfather was a wealthy man.”
“He was fairly well-to-do at one time, but he lost his money and died poor.”
“How did he lose it?”
The question was a plain one and demanded a plain and satisfying answer. But how could I give that answer—then? Hephzy was shaking her head violently. I stammered and faltered and looked guilty, I have no doubt.
“Well?” said Miss Morley.
“He—he lost it, that is sufficient. You must take my word for it. Captain Cahoon died without a dollar of his own.”
“When did he LOSE his wealth?” with sarcastic emphasis.
“Years ago. About the time your parents left the United States. There, there, Hephzy! I know. I'm doing my best.”
“Indeed! When did he die?”
“Long ago—more than ten years ago.”