More and more perturbed, Piers abruptly declared his ignorance; he sat in an awkward attitude, bending forward; his brows were knit, his dark eyes had a solemn intensity, and his square jaw asserted itself more than usual.
"Well, between brothers, I don't see why you shouldn't.

In fact, I am a good deal surprised that the worthy old man has held his peace about that legacy, and I don't think I shall scruple to tell you all I know.
You are aware, at all events, that our interesting parent has been a little unfortunate in his matrimonial adventures.

His first wife--not to pick one's phrase--quarrelled furiously with him.

His second, you inform me, is somewhat difficult to live with." "His _third_," interrupted Piers.
"No, my dear boy," said the other gravely, sympathetically.

"That intermediate connection was not legal." "Not----?
My mother was not---- ?" "Don't worry about it," proceeded Daniel in a kind tone.