"Will you mention my name to him, and say that I should like to see him?"
Mr. Drummond was ushered into the parlor, where he had a little chance to look around him before Walter appeared.
"It's all nonsense wasting so much money on furniture," he mentally ejaculated. "The money spent is a dead loss when it might be drawing handsome interest."
Walter did not long keep him waiting.
Mr. Drummond rose at his entrance.
"I suppose you don't know me," he said; "but I was your father's nearest living relation."
"Mr. Drummond, I believe."
"Yes, Jacob Drummond, of Stapleton. You have probably heard your father speak of me?"
"Yes, sir," said Walter.
"I came as soon as I could after getting the telegram. I left my business to take care of itself. I wanted to offer you my sympathy on your sad loss."