"Hang it! the girl's father, then. He died in America, where he went under another name, and you were picked up by strangers and reared under that name, in complete ignorance of your own family. All which is true and can be proved."
"Who brought her up?"
"People in America. I'm one of 'em."
"Who is to prove that?"
"I am. I am come to England on purpose. I am her guardian."
"Who is to prove that you are the girl's guardian?"
"I shall find somebody to prove that."
His thoughts turned to Mr. Chalker, a gentleman whom he judged capable of proving anything he was paid for.
"And suppose they ask me questions?"
"Don't answer 'em. You know very little. The papers were only found the other day. You are not expected to know anything."