"Your father asked me to assume that office, and I consented cheerfully, not only from my friendship for him, but because I have a very good opinion of you," said Squire Selwyn.
"Thank you, sir," said John, earnestly.
"Let me add, my young friend," said the lawyer, kindly, "that I hope you will come to me as freely for advice as if I really filled this office."
"I will, sir," said John. "I am so situated that I need a friend to advise me who is older and wiser than myself."
"Apply to me freely at all times," said the lawyer, pleased with John's modest demeanor.
"There is one thing I want to tell you," said John; "I think my father's last will is still in existence."
"What grounds have you for such a belief?" asked Squire Selwyn, regarding him closely.
"I will tell you, sir," said John.
He then related the particulars of his last interview with his father, and the great effort which the sick man made to communicate something to him.
Squire Selwyn listened attentively.