"That shows he has great confidence in you. Don't breathe a word of it, my boy, or this rascally nephew will persecute his uncle, and make his life a burden."
"He will learn nothing from me," said Mark firmly.
"You seem a good trustworthy boy—I think my friend made a good choice of a confidant."
"Thank you, sir."
At length they reached the cabin in the wood. Old Anthony was already outside, waiting for their coming.
"Good morning, my friend," said the lawyer; "the boy tells me you have been sick——"
"Yes, I have had a visit from my old enemy, but I am much better."
"To be sick in such a place!" said the lawyer with a shudder.
"I have not suffered, thanks to Mark—will you come in?"
"Let us rather bring chairs outside, if you are provided with such luxuries. We shall have several matters to discuss."