Let it be sold.' "So here I am--rich already--with this additional sum of money in my banker's care.
"My idea is to invest it in the Funds, and to let it thrive at interest, until I grow older, and retire perhaps from service in the Navy.
The later years of my life may well be devoted to the founding of a charitable institution, which I myself can establish and direct.

If I die first--oh, there is a chance of it! We may have a naval war, perhaps, or I may turn out one of those incorrigible madmen who risk their lives in Arctic exploration.

In case of the worst, therefore, I shall leave the interests of my contemplated Home in your honest and capable hands.

For the present good-by, and a prosperous voyage outward bound." So the letter ended.
Sydney dwelt with reluctant attention on the latter half of it.

The story of the unhappy favorite of the family had its own melancholy and sinister interest for her.