"This is an affinity that puts a person altogether out of the line of succession; and, of course, removes any necessity, or wish, to see Sir Reginald." "Half-_blood_--hey! Atwood ?" muttered the vice-admiral, turning away towards his secretary, who had followed him down stairs.

"This may be the solution, after all! Do you happen to know what half-_blood_ means?
It cannot signify that Sir Reginald comes from one of those, who have no father--all their ancestry consisting only of a mother ?" "I should think not, Sir Gervaise; in that case, Sir Reiginald would scarcely be considered of so honourable a lineage, as he appears to be.
I have not the smallest idea, sir, what half-_blood_ means; and, perhaps, it may not be amiss to inquire of the medical gentlemen.
Magrath is up stairs; possibly he can tell us." "I rather think it has something to do with the law.

If this out-of-the-way place, now, could furnish even a lubberly attorney, we might learn all about it.

Harkee, Atwood; you must stand by to make Sir Wycherly's will, if he says any thing more about it--have you got the heading all written out, as I desired." "It is quite ready, Sir Gervaise--beginning, as usual, 'In the name of God, Amen.' I have even ventured so far as to describe the testator's style and residence, &c.

&c.--'I, Sir Wycherly Wychecombe, Bart., of Wychecombe Hall, Devon, do make and declare this to be my last will and testament, &c.