I don't know whether they will put me in jail or not; but you know that I cannot pay this money, and couldn't if I had five years to do it in. What will become of us all I don't know. 'Man is born to trouble as the sparks fly upward.'
"Your sorrowful aunt, "Jane Bradford.
"P.S.—I am sure your Uncle Matthew never intended that I should pay the rent. He once wrote me a letter to that effect, but I can't find it."
Even Ben, hopeful as he was, looked sober after reading this letter. He went to his friend, the bookkeeper.
"Have you ever seen your uncle, Ben?" he inquired.
"No, sir."
"What was his reputation?"
"He was considered wealthy."
"It is a pity you could not visit Montreal, and make some inquiries," said the bookkeeper thoughtfully.
"Of course I can't do that."