“When I made their loss known to them Bushrod's wife fainted, Jake, keeled over at the first word; and when she came to, her grief was most heartrending. Her sister-in-law's composure was remarkable; while Mrs. Walsh showed much emotion—a nice little thing, Jacob; did I understand you to say quite penniless?”
“Yes.”
“Too bad, too bad! wholly incapable, I should say, of meeting the situation by herself. You are convinced in your own mind that Stephen and Bush and the others are dead?”
“Yes,” said Benson shortly.
“Shocking! Shocking!” said the judge, holding up his hands in horror.
“Have you seen either of the ladies since you took the word to them?” asked Benson.
For some reason the judge coloured slightly.
“I think, indeed, I am quite sure, that I have seen Mrs. Bushrod Landray, being close by—you understand,” he paused, and looked hard at Benson.
Benson shot the judge a covert glance.
“A most estimable lady,” continued the latter warmly. “I trust Bush left her well provided for?”