A whole year's income from the estates was left to the heir in advance, so that he might not be driven to any momentary difficulty in assuming the responsibilities of his station.

A comparatively small sum was left to Jack Neville, and a special gem to Sophie Mellerby.

There were bequests to all the servants, a thousand pounds to the vicar of the parish,--which perhaps was the only legacy which astonished the legatee,--and his affectionate love to every tenant on the estate.

All the world acknowledged that it was as good a will as the Earl could have made.

Then the last of the strangers left the house, and the Earl of Scroope was left to begin his reign and do his duty as best he might.
Jack had promised to remain with him for a few days, and Sophie Mellerby, who had altogether given up her London season, was to stay with the widow till something should be settled as to a future residence.