"It is one of the most melancholy cases I ever met with!" exclaimed Gammon, with a sigh. "I suppose the reverses of the Aubrey family frequently formed a subject of her Ladyship's conversation?" "Oh, she has talked with me for hours together--and even very shortly before her last illness!" "It is, methinks, enough to raise the poor old lady from her grave, to find so much of her property diverted thus to one who does not want it, and who was a total stranger!" "Ay, it is indeed!" "I am a little surprised, to tell you the truth, that, under the circumstances, her Ladyship should not have thought of at least _sharing_ the policy between Miss Aubrey and Mr."---- "I do assure you that that is the very thing I have heard her several times talking about lately!" "That will do," thought his wily companion; "thank God she's clearly _intestate_, then, for Parkinson's draft does not contain her _last_ will and testament--that will do--thank you, my honest friend!" This was what was passing through Gammon's mind, while a sympathizing expression was upon his face, and he shook his head, and deplored the untoward event which had happened, in very pathetic terms indeed. On quitting Mr. Parkinson, Gammon thus pursued the train of his thoughts:-- "What if I should allow this paper to be admitted to probate? Let me see--It will give Miss Aubrey some fifteen thousand pounds:--or one might take out administration in favor of Titmouse, and then suggest to her that I had the means of nullifying the proceedings, and carrying into effect Lady Stratton's intentions--for the Letters may be _repealed_ at any time.--Stay, however. It is by no means impossible, that when Parkinson comes to communicate with Aubrey, or that deep old fellow Runnington, they may think of lodging a _caveat_ against our letters of administration: but they'll fail--for Parkinson must speak conclusively on _that_ point. So, perhaps, the better way will be, to take out administration in the usual way, and see what _they_ will do.--Then, there's Aubrey's bond--poor devil!--is it not unfortunate for him?--But that shall be reserved; let us see the effect of our other movements, first."