"That is hardly likely, Mr. Brief. The poor man suffered much at the death of the boy, to whom he was ardently attached."
"So you loved the boy, Mr. Rugg?" said the lawyer.
"Oh, uncommon," said Rudolph. "He was my pet, and the apple of my eye. We was always together, Tony and I."
"And I suppose he loved you."
"He couldn't bear me out of his sight; he looked upon me as a father, sir."
"If he'd come into the estate, he would probably have provided for you," suggested the lawyer, watching him keenly.
"It's likely, sir. I wish he had."
"So it's a personal loss to you—the death of the boy."
"Yes, sir."
"Mrs. Middleton probably will not forget your services to the boy."