The surprise which came to Jasper upon his speedy release and vindication was nothing compared to the shock he received when Mr. Westcote told him about old David’s will.

“Surely he has not left everything to me!” Jasper exclaimed.

“No, not all; merely half after a few bequests have been disposed of.  Then you and Miss Sinclair are to share alike.”

“I don’t seem to comprehend it all yet,” and Jasper placed his hand to his forehead in a bewildered manner.

“It’s only natural that you shouldn’t.  It will take you some time to grasp the significance of the bequest which has been made to you.  Your responsibility will be very heavy, but from what I know of you I believe that you will be equal to the undertaking.”

“I shall do the best I can,” Jasper replied.  “I am too much dazed at present to think it carefully over.  For a man to be freed from all suspicion of a terrible crime, and then to find himself heir to a vast fortune all in one day is enough to turn any one’s brain.”

A knock sounded upon the office door, and Dr. Turnsell at once entered.  He shook hands with Jasper and heartily congratulated him.

“I have come to tell you,” he added, “that Bramshaw has made a full confession of his crime.  He is a nervous wreck, and this morning he broke down completely.”

“I am very thankful that he has confessed,” and Jasper gave a sigh of relief.  “Wasn’t it lucky that he was caught before he got over the Border?”

“You have to thank Miss Sinclair for that,” Mr. Westcote replied.  “But for her prompt action I am afraid we would be frantically searching for Bramshaw now.”

“And I would be still in jail,” Jasper mused.

“Undoubtedly.  Now, it seems to me that Miss Sinclair should be informed of what has happened as soon as possible.  Suppose we slip up and tell her?”

“That will be great,” and Jasper sprang to his feet.  “When can we start?”

“At once.  The car is waiting outside.  I knew that you would be anxious to go, and so ordered the chauffeur to be ready.”

CHAPTER XXXIII

THE REAL HAVEN

Lois rose early that morning and attended to numerous household affairs.  It was necessary for her to keep busy, as her mind was always calmer when her hands were employed.  She had the feeling that the day would be an unusual one, and that much would happen before its close.  She could not rid her mind of this idea, and she mentioned it to Margaret over the breakfast table.

“Do you believe in premonitions?” she asked.

“In a way I do,” was the reply.  “Strange things happen sometimes, you know.  I, too, have a peculiar feeling this morning that we are to hear great news today.  Everything is so still just now, with not a leaf nor a blade of grass aquiver.  See how the fog rests upon the river through which the sun is trying to break.  There will be a heavy wind this afternoon, mark my word.  I have often noticed it to be so.  It is the rule rather than the exception.  And it may be the case with us.  The quietness of the morning may give place to excitement before night.”