"In that case," rejoined Kirkwood calmly, "I think you had better communicate with the secretary of the Society for the Encouragement of the Discovery of Antediluvian Remains and inform him that my uncle's legacy is at his disposal. I am rather surprised that you should have written asking me to call. The proposition is an insult to His Majesty's Service." "You show the proper spirit, Mr. Kirkwood," said the lawyer, with genuine admiration for the young officer's _esprit de corps_. "It is a peculiar will, and, if you desire to dispute its terms, you may be successful at the Courts; I should be happy to undertake the case. However, there is one clause. The bulk of the estate goes to this eccentric Society. The residue, consisting of deeds of real estates to the value of seven thousand pounds, goes to you unconditionally." The interview lasted about twenty minutes, at the end of which the three officers prepared to leave. "By the bye," remarked the A.P., "I suppose you can let me have a copy of the list of securities?" "Yes, a copy," replied Mr. Gott. "The deeds will be handed over when probate of the Will has been declared. You will understand that the duties will be considerable?" "Lucky to have to pay 'em," commented Kirkwood. "Thank you, Mr. Gott. Good afternoon." It was not until the following morning when Barcroft and the A.P. were speeding north by the 5.15 express on their way to Tarleigh that the flight-sub mentioned a matter that was on his mind--a delicate request the reason for which Billy could not very well explain. "By the bye, old man," he began "what do you propose doing with those deeds when they are handed over to you?" "Hanged if I know," replied Kirkwood. "Haven't troubled much about them. Simply carry on and make good use of the interest, I suppose. Seems a fairly safe investment, but personally I'd rather sell out and shove the money into the War Loan." "Are you willing to hand one of the deeds over to me?" asked Billy. The A.P. looked at his companion in surprise. "Certainly," he replied. "Didn't know--hang it!--I'd no idea you were in need----" "No, not that," interposed Barcroft. "A cash transaction, most decidedly. There's one--originally belonging to a Mrs. Deringhame--I'm rather keen on having. Can't very well explain why, unless you insist upon an explanation, only I thought----" "Don't worry, old bird," said Kirkwood. "It's yours on your terms. I see by the list that old rascal Gott gave me that this particular document is included. That's settled, then." "Thanks awfully," said Billy gratefully. "Some day I'll be able to tell you why I wanted it. When do you think the business in connection with your late uncle's will will be settled?" "About a week, I should say," replied the A.P. "At any rate, if it isn't I think I can reasonably apply for an extension of leave."