P.S. Should Frank die before maturity, I desire that his property should go to you.
Ernest read the foregoing with mingled feelings. He knew that the writer was an outlaw, deeply stained with crime; but this letter showed him at his best. Paternal love softened the harsh outlines of his character, and spoke of a nature that might have made him a blessing instead of a curse to his kind.
Ernest lost no time in communicating with Mr. Hardy.
The lawyer read the letter in some surprise.
"Mr. Fox seems to have appointed a young guardian for his son," he remarked.
"Yes, sir; but he appeared to have no choice. It would have been better had he appointed you."
"No; I do not care to assume that responsibility. I am ready to assist you, however."
"I will depend upon you, then, for I shall start for California as soon as possible. Can you recommend a satisfactory boarding-school?"
"I have a son at school in Lincoln. The school is under the charge of a clergyman, who is an efficient teacher, yet is popular with his pupils."
"Can you arrange to enter Frank at his school?"