Tall and thin, and very business-like in manner, was Mr. Carteret. Sitting down quietly beside the old gentleman, and taking the will from his clerk, he proceed to read it.
Though conducted with due deliberation, the ceremony did not occupy many minutes, and when the attorney had finished reading the document, Mr. Calverley declared himself perfectly satisfied.
“All you have to do is to sign it, sir,” said the attorney.
Accordingly, a small table was placed beside the invalid's chair, and the will was duly executed and attested.
“Pray call in my wife,” said Mr. Calverley, as soon as this was done.
When Mrs. Calverley re-appeared, she was informed by her husband that the will was executed.
“Yes; the business is done, madam,” observed Mr. Carteret, with a very singular expression of countenance.
“Shall I leave the document with you, sir?”
“No; take charge of it,” replied Mr. Calverley.
“Well, perhaps, it will be best with me,” observed the attorney, glancing at the lady as he spoke.