Shall I read it to you ?" "Yes; if it is not very long." He began to read it.

The lady interrupted him characteristically.
"It's a beastly rigmarole.

What does it mean--in three words ?" "Sir Charles Bassett secures to Rhoda Somerset four hundred pounds a year, while single; this is reduced to two hundred if you marry.

The deed further assigns to you, without reserve, the beneficial lease of this house, and all the furniture and effects, plate, linen, wine, etc." "I see--a bribe." "Nothing of the kind, madam.

When Sir Charles instructed me to prepare this deed he expected no opposition on your part to his marriage; but he thought it due to him and to yourself to mark his esteem for you, and his recollection of the pleasant hours he has spent in your company." Miss Somerset's eyes searched the lawyer's face.