Mr. Hardy glanced significantly at Mark, who was leaning against a tree, and could of course hear the conversation.
"Mark," said the hermit, "you may go farther away, but return in an hour. This gentleman and myself may have some things to speak of which are private."
"Certainly, sir."
"Well, old friend," Hardy began, "haven't you had enough of this strange existence? you are rich, and can afford all the comforts of life, yet you voluntarily surrender them, and bury yourself in this wilderness. Do you mean to stay here all your life?"
"I did at one time think it probable, now I am beginning to feel a greater interest in life."
"The boy tells me your nephew has found you out?"
"Yes; he came here in quest of money, but he went away convinced that I was nearly as poor as himself. If he knew the truth I should be in constant danger of robbery, or worse——"
"If you die without a will, is he not your heir?"
"He would be, but I shall make a will. It is partly to give you instructions on this point that I have sent for you."
"You have no one else to leave your money to?"