'I know nothing of the sort. What he put into my hands was merely an evidence that he had at one time purposed to do an unfair thing, and that he repented of it in time.'
'Miss Cusworth, that cancelled will still remains to me a mystery, and I do not see how I shall ever come to an understanding of how it was that the signature was gone. From your account my uncle——'
'Never mind going over that question again. As you say, an understanding of the mystery will never be reached. Allow it to remain unattempted. I am content.'
'But, Miss Cusworth, we do not offer you a handsome, but a moderate provision.'
'You cannot force me to take what I refuse to receive. Who was that king to whom molten gold was offered? He shut his teeth against the draught. So do I. I clench mine and you cannot force them open.'
'What is the meaning of this? Why do you refuse to have my uncle's wishes carried out? You put us in an invidious position.'
Salome had shut her mouth. She shook her head. The pretty dimples were in her cheeks. Her colour had deepened.
'Someone has been talking to you,' said Philip. 'I know there has. Who was it?'
Salome again shook her head, with a provoking smile dappling and dimpling her face; but seeing that Philip was seriously annoyed, it faded, and she broke silence.
'There is a real favour you can do us, Mr. Pennycomequick, if you will.'