He is the junior partner in the firm of Archer and
Sleigh, who conduct any little business which I may have from time to time;
may I entreat your hospitality for him during a brief stay at Knowl? I
write, even for a moment, upon these small matters of business with
an effort--a painful one, but necessary. Alas! my brother! The cup of
bitterness is now full. Few and evil must the remainder of my old days be.
Yet, while they last, I remain always for my beloved niece, that which all
her wealth and splendour cannot purchase--a loving and faithful kinsman and
friend,
SILAS RUTHYN.'
'Is not it a kind letter?' I said, while tears stood in my eyes.
'Yes,' answered Lady Knollys, drily.
'But don't you think it so, really?'
'Oh! kind, very kind,' she answered in the same tone, 'and perhaps a little
cunning.'
'Cunning!--how?'
'Well, you know I'm a peevish old Tabby, and of course I scratch now and
then, and see in the dark. I dare say Silas is sorry, but I don't think he
is in sackcloth and ashes. He has reason to be sorry and anxious, and I say
I think he is both; and you know he pities you very much, and also himself
a good deal; and he wants money, and you--his beloved niece--have a great
deal--and altogether it is an affectionate and prudent letter: and he has
sent his attorney here to make a note of the will; and you are to give the
gentleman his meals and lodging; and Silas, very thoughtfully, invites you
to confide your difficulties and troubles to _his_ solicitor.
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