On the other hand, how if Romaine should come too late?
I have two pieces of business to be transacted--to die, and to make my will; and, however desirous I may be to serve you, I cannot postpone the first in favour of the second beyond a very few hours.' 'Well, sir, I must then contrive to be doing as I did before,' said I.
'Not so,' said the Count.

'I have an alternative.

I have just drawn my balance at my banker's, a considerable sum, and I am now to place it in your hands.

It will be so much for you and so much less--' he paused, and smiled with an air of malignity that surprised me.

'But it is necessary it should be done before witnesses.