It would also enable her to carry out without difficulty any plans she might determine upon.
Upon the receipt of the letter announcing Mr.Penfold's death, she had written to Ralph telling him of it, but saying nothing about Mr.
Tallboys' visit to the Withers, or his report that he was unable to find the will.

She now wrote to him relating the whole circumstances.
He had not previously known Mr.Penfold's intention to make him his heir, being only told that he intended to push his way in life, and had considered that the promise was carried out by his obtaining him a commission and arranging some allowance.

His mother was glad of this now.
"Of course the loss of Mr.Penfold's will, my boy, will make a difference to you, as there can be no doubt that he had made some provisions in it for the regular payment of the allowance he had so kindly promised you.

This, unless the will is found, you will of course lose.

Having been a soldier's daughter, I know that to live comfortably in the army it is necessary to have something beyond your pay; but fortunately I can assist you a little.