“He will agree to receive nothing less than half the estate.”
“He is quite moderate. You are sure that he does not demand the whole?”
“Quite so. He has no disposition to impoverish you, notwithstanding the wrongs he has received at your hands.”
“He is considerate,” said Lewis, “very considerate! How soon does he expect an answer to his modest proposal?”
“This very night.”
“And suppose,” said Lewis, “(of course, it is highly improbable) but suppose I should decline complying with this very moderate demand of my worthy cousin? What then?”
Lewis regarded Mr. Sharp with an exulting smile.
“Allow me, before answering your question, to propose one of my own.”
“Certainly, Mr. Sharp,” said Lewis, graciously, already exulting in the other’s discomfiture; “I shall be happy to give you information upon any point you may desire.”
He leaned back and surveyed the lawyer with an insolent smile. But his triumph was short-lived.