“‘Now, Mrs. Ragland, will you state on your oath that you never did reside in New Orleans as the reputed wife of Benjamin Bowles?’
“‘Yes, I will; and I do not thank you for asking me any such a question!’
“‘I do not wish or expect any thanks from you, madame, but I merely want to get at the truth. Mrs. Ragland, did you ever see a copy of Bolivar Bramlett’s will?’
“‘Perhaps I have.’
“‘Don’t you know you have?’
“‘Suppose I have: what does that signify?’
“‘Just answer the question, if you please.’
“‘Very well, then—I have seen a copy of the will.’
“‘Did you not send to New York for a copy of the will, and pay ten dollars for it?’
“‘Oh, yes, I declare, I had forgotten all about it!’