"Lyman Taylor!" he exclaimed.
"Yes, Lyman Taylor," returned the other, mockingly. "Are you glad to see your nephew?"
"Heaven knows I am not!" said old Anthony bitterly.
"So I judged from your expression. Yet they say blood is thicker than water."
"That there is any tie of blood between us I regret deeply. A man more utterly unworthy I have never known."
"Come, Uncle Anthony, isn't that a little strong. I am no angel——"
"You are a worthless scoundrel," said the hermit bitterly.
"Look here, old man," said his nephew fiercely, "I didn't come here to be insulted and called bad names. Considering that you are alone and in my power, it is a little impertinent in you to talk in that way. I might kill you."
"You are quite capable of it," said Anthony. "Do so, if you choose. Life is not a possession that I greatly prize."
"I have a great mind to take you at your word," said Taylor coolly, "but it wouldn't suit my purpose. Your death would do me no good unless you have made me your heir. I am desperately in need of money."