In the impulse of the surprise, she said aloud that she wished it had been left to me; and I am sure these were her true sentiments." Lady Verner sat in silence, her white hands crossed on her black dress, her head bent down.

Presently she lifted it---- "I do not fully understand you, Lionel.

You appear to imply that--according to your belief--no one has touched the codicil.

How, then, can it have got out of the desk ?" "There is only one solution.

It was suggested by Mr.Bitterworth; and, though I refused credence to it when he spoke, it has since been gaining upon my mind.