“Of course; so I understand the permission, sir,” said Linton, courteously, “on the distinct understanding that her acceptance alone is wanting to fill up the measure of my wishes.” “Is it necessary that I should repeat that I am totally destitute of fortune--that the humble means I possess expire with me, and that I am as poor in influence as in all else?” “I have sufficient for both, sir, for all that moderate wishes can desire. Pray do not add a word upon the subject.” “I must be explicit, Mr. Linton, however wearisome to you the theme. You will pardon an old man's prolixity, in consideration for the motives which prompt it. We have absolutely nothing of our once powerful family, save the name and the escutcheon,--mementos to remind us of our fall! They did, indeed, say, some time back, that our title to the estate afforded strong grounds for litigation--that there were points of considerable importance--” “May I interrupt you, sir?” said Linton, laying his hand on Corrigan's arm. “A subject so full of regrets to _you_ can never be a pleasing topic to _me_. I am fully as rich as a man like myself could desire; and I trust to personal exertions for whatever I may wish to add in the way of ambition.” “And with good reason, sir,” said Corrigan, proudly. “There are no failures to those who unite honesty of purpose with fine abilities. I will not add a word. Go--speak to my granddaughter: I tell you frankly my best wishes go with you.” Linton smiled a look of deep gratitude, and moved towards the door. “One second more,” cried Corrigan, as the other laid his hand on the lock; “it may soon be, that, as a member of our family, you would have the right to express a will on the subject we have been talking of. I would wish to say, that, as I have abandoned all desire to contest this question, I should equally expect the same line of conduct from you.” “Can you doubt it, sir--or is it necessary that I should give my promise?” “I hope and trust not. But having myself given a written pledge, under my own hand and seal, to Mr. Cashel, surrendering all right and title to this estate--” “Who gave this?” said Linton, turning suddenly round, and relinquishing his hold upon the lock of the door. “Who gave this?” “I gave it.” “To whom?” “To Mr. Cashel, in the presence of his agent.” “When?” exclaimed Linton, from whose pale features, now, intense agitation had banished all disguise. “When did you give it?” “Within a fortnight.” “And this document--this release, was formal and explicit?” “Perfectly so. I knew enough of law to make it obligatory. I stated the conditions for which it was given,--certain concessions that Mr. Cashel had lately granted me, respecting this small property.”