The task was likely to be a long one.

The late broker's affairs were in a muddled state, the books were anything but clear, some of the investments were foreign, and, at the very earliest, months must elapse before the executor and trustee could know, for certain, just how large a property he was in charge of.
He found some solace and forgetfulness of the unpleasant life he was leading in helping the stricken Moriarty family.

Annie, the maid at the apartment, he swore to secrecy.

She must not tell Miss Caroline of his visits to her parents' home.

Doctor Henry, also, though he could not understand why, promised silence.