It formed part of her marriage portion, and it was settled on my father if she died before him, and if she left no female child to survive her.

I am her only child.

My father was therefore dealing with his own property when he ordered the house to be sold.

His will leaves the purchase money to me.

I would rather have kept the house.
"But why did my mother make him promise to sell the place at his death?
"A letter, attached to my father's will, answers this question, and tells a very sad story.