_It would be difficult to describe what_ EDWARD _feels at this moment. Perhaps something of the shock that the relief of death may be as an end to pain so long endured that it has been half forgotten. He answers very quietly, without a sign of emotion._ EDWARD. Thank you . . May one ask why? MR. BOOTH. [_relieved that the worst is over._] Certainly . . certainly. My reason is straightforward and simple and well considered. I think you must know, Edward, I have never been able to feel that implicit confidence in your ability which I had in your father's. Well, it is hardly to be expected, is it? EDWARD. [_with a grim smile._] No. MR. BOOTH. I can say that without unduly depreciating you. Men like your father are few and far between. As far as I know things proceed at this office as they have always done but . . since his death I have not been happy about my affairs. EDWARD. [_speaking as it is his duty to._] I think you need be under no apprehension . . MR. BOOTH. I daresay not. But that isn't the point. Now, for the first time in my long life I am worried about money affairs; and I don't like the feeling. The possession of money has always been a pleasure to me . . and for what are perhaps my last years I don't wish that to be otherwise. You must remember you have practically my entire property unreservedly in your control. EDWARD. Perhaps we can arrange to hand you over the reins to an extent which will ease your mind, and at the same time not . . MR. BOOTH. I thought of that. Believe me, I have every wish not to slight unduly your father's son. I have not moved in the matter for eighteen months. I have not been able to make up my mind to. Really, one feels a little helpless . . and the transaction of business requires more energy than . . But I saw my doctor yesterday, Edward, and he told me . . well, it was a warning. And so I felt it my duty at once to . . especially as I made up my mind to it some time ago. [_he comes to the end of this havering at last and adds._] In point of fact, Edward, more than a year before your father died I had quite decided that my affairs could never be with you as they were with him. EDWARD _starts almost out of his chair; his face pale, his eyes black_. EDWARD. Did he know that? MR. BOOTH. [_resenting this new attitude._] I think I never said it in so many words. But he may easily have guessed. EDWARD. [_as he relaxes and turns, almost shuddering, from the possibility of dreadful knowledge._] No . . no . . he never guessed. [_Then, with a sudden fresh impulse._] I hope you won't do this, Mr. Booth. MR. BOOTH. I have quite made up my mind. EDWARD. You must let me persuade you-- MR. BOOTH. [_conciliatory._] I shall make a point of informing your family that you are in no way to blame in the matter. And in the event of any personal legal difficulties I shall always be delighted to come to you. My idea is for the future to employ merely a financial agent--