"To make an assertion that could be disproved when the earl's affairs come to be investigated, would be simply foolish.

I give you my word of honor as a gentleman--nay, as a fellow-man--that this estate, with the house and all it contains, passed months ago, from the hands of Lord Mount Severn; and, during his recent sojourn here, he was a visitor in it.

Go and ask his men of business." "Who purchased it ?" was the inquiry.
"Mr.Carlyle, of West Lynne.

Some of you may possibly know him by reputation." Some of them did.
"A cute young lawyer," observed a voice; "as his father was before him." "I am he," proceeded Mr.Carlyle; "and, being a 'cute lawyer,' as you do me the honor to decide, you cannot suppose I should risk my money upon any sale not perfectly safe and legal.

I was not an agent in the affair; I employed agents; for it was my own money that I invested, and East Lynne is mine." "Is the purchase money paid over ?" inquired more than one.
"It was paid over at the time--last June." "What did Lord Mount Severn do with the money ?" "I do not know," replied Mr.Carlyle.