“You know that I would sooner handle red-hot ploughshares, than touch a dollar, a cent, of that fortune.  It would greatly relieve my mind and comfort me, if you would indicate some method by which I can convey to Mr. Darrington that which really belongs to him.  Unless he can enjoy it, it might as well be in the grave now with its former owner.  Do help me.”

The pathetic pleading of face and voice almost unnerved him, but he sat silent.

“Cannot I dispose at least of the income or interest?  If a definite amount should be allowed me each year, during my minority, could I do as I please with that sum?”

“Certainly you have that right.  I may as well tell you, there is one method of accomplishing your aim, by applying to the Legislature to legalize your acts by declaring you of age.  At present the estate is in the hands of Mr. Wolverton, whom the Probate Court has appointed administrator; and at the expiration of eighteen months from the date of Gen’l Darrington’s death, the control of the whole will devolve to some extent upon you.  Meanwhile the administrator will allow you annually a reasonable amount.”

“Do you know what sum Mr. Darrington required while abroad?”

“I am told his allowance was four thousand dollars per annum.  Histology, morphology, and aetiology are whims too costly for impecunious students.  Prince must reduce his stable of hobbies.”

“No, he is entitled to canter as many as he likes, and the money could not be better spent than in promoting the noble work of the advancement of Science.  The problem is solved, and my earthly cares are at an end.  Leave the copy you brought, and ask Mr. Wolverton to see me to-morrow.  He shall write both the will and the deed of gift, which you think can be made valid, and meanwhile the annual allowance must be paid as formerly to the son.  Whether I live or die, the wishes of the dead will be respected, and Prince Darrington shall have his own.  It is an intense relief to know that two innocent and happy lives will never feel the fatal chill of my shadow; and when your sister enters ‘Elm Bluff’ as its mistress, the balance-sheet will be complete.”

As if some dreaded task had been finally accomplished, she drew a deep sigh of weariness that was cut short by a spell of coughing.

“There is a Scriptural injunction concerning kindness to enemies, which amounts to heaping coals of fire on their heads; and to my unregenerate nature, it savors more of subtile inquisitorial cruelty, than of Christian charity.”

“Your sister is not my enemy, I hope, and need I so rank your sister’s brother?  There is one thing more, which even your sarcasm shall not prevent.”

She drew from beneath the cardboard a paper box, placed it on the table and removed the lid.