“John Bush is dead. This young man, whom I previously knew, was his partner, and to him Bush bequeathed all of which he died possessed.”
“I suppose your young friend has proof to substantiate his claim,” said Mr. Bird, cautiously.
“He has.”
Here Mr. Lindsay produced the paper already referred to.
“This seems correct, but the witnesses ought to be produced. They might be men of straw, you know.”
“Of course. In such a matter, you are right to be cautious. The witnesses are all in Melbourne, and shall be produced,” said Mr. Lindsay.
“I have no doubt all will be satisfactory; but of course, as a man of business, Mr. Lindsay, you will not be surprised that we require absolute proof.”
“You are perfectly right in doing so. I should do the same in your place. We propose to bring the witnesses here, that you may satisfy yourself that all is genuine, and as it should be. If you will appoint an hour that will suit your convenience they shall be on hand.”
“To-morrow at eleven, then.”
“Very well.”