"Permit me to explain: I did not intend to imply any doubt as to the way in which the late Mr. Davenport made his money. We solicitors get into a legal way of talking when we are at business; and, legally speaking, I have no knowledge of my own of how the late Mr. Davenport made his money, because the making of the money did not come directly under my observation. I _do_ know he told me he made it in foreign speculations, and I think you will be quite safe in taking it that he did make it abroad. We are now, as I take it, speaking of the time before your marriage with Mr. Davenport?" "Yes, of the time before my marriage." "Since then, you would naturally know more of his business affairs than I." "He spoke little to me of business, and I know hardly anything of his affairs." "As you know, you are largely benefited under the will. Roughly speaking, all his property goes to you, in addition to what you are entitled to under the marriage settlement." She made a slight gesture, as though putting these subjects aside. He made an elaborate gesture, indicating that he understood her, and that he was her obedient, humble servant. After another pause she asked: "Do you know anything of a man named Fahey--a man who was in some way or other connected with Mr. Davenport, and who was drowned or committed suicide many years ago, shortly after Mr. Davenport's marriage?" "Fahey--Fahey--Fahey? Yes, I do. I remember that he drowned himself near Kilcash House because the police were on his track for uttering forged bank-notes." "Do you know in what relation he stood to Mr. Davenport?" "I am under the impression he was some kind of humble hanger-on; but I am not sure." "You _know_ nothing of him?" "Certainly not." "Never saw him?" "Not to my knowledge." Another pause. "You were good enough to tell me a moment ago that you are acquainted with the legal business of my late husband. Suppose I did not wish to take any money or property under my late husband's will, how would the matter be?" "Not take your husband's money or property under the will! You are not, my dear Mrs. Davenport, thinking of anything so monstrous?" cried the old man, fairly surprised out of his measured tone and oracular manner. "Suppose I am. Have I, or shall I soon have, absolute control over what has been left to me?" "Certainly. There are no conditions. All will be yours absolutely." "Thank you. I am very much obliged. You will add further to my obligations to you if you will kindly hurry forward all matters in connection with the will. I am most anxious to have the money in my own hands." "Permit me to explain once more: I take it for granted you have not had leisure to read the copy of the will I forwarded to you?" She bowed.