I don't know," said Mrs Cruden.

"Mr Richmond always managed your father's business affairs, you know, so he will be able to tell us how matters stand." They reached the house, and found Mr Richmond had already arrived and was awaiting them in the library.
Mr Richmond was a solemn, grave personage, whose profession was written on his countenance.

His lips were so closely set that it seemed as if speaking must be a positive pain to him, his eyes had the knack of looking past you, as though he was addressing not you but your shadow on the wall, and he ended every sentence, no matter what its import, with a mechanical smile, as though he were at that instant having his photograph taken.

Why Mr Cruden should have selected Mr Richmond as his man of business was a matter only known to Mr Cruden himself, for those who knew the lawyer best did not care for him, and, without being able to deny that he was an honest man and a well-meaning man, were at least glad that their affairs were in the hands of some one else.
He rose and solemnly greeted the widow and her two sons as they entered.
"I am sorry to intrude at such a time," said he, "but as your late husband's adviser, I considered it right to call and make you acquainted with his affairs." Here Mr Richmond smiled, greatly to Reginald's indignation.
"Thank you," said Mrs Cruden; "sit down, please, Mr Richmond." Mr Richmond obeyed, dubiously eyeing the two boys as he did so.
"These are your sons, I presume ?" said he to Mrs Cruden.
"They are," said she.
Mr Richmond rose and solemnly shook hands with each of the lads, informing each with a smile as he did so that he was pleased to make his acquaintance.
"You wish the young gentlemen to remain, perhaps ?" he inquired, as he resumed his seat.
"To be sure," said Mrs Cruden, somewhat nettled at the question; "go on, please, Mr Richmond." "Certainly, madam," said the lawyer.

"May I ask if you are acquainted with the late Mr Cruden's state of affairs ?" "I wish to hear that from you," said the widow, "and with as little delay as possible, Mr Richmond." "Certainly, madam.