hecombe is desirous of making his will."

The vice-admiral now went through the ceremony of repeating his request,
and got the same significant answer.

"So I understood it, Sir Wycherly, and I believe now I also understand
all about the 'half,' and the 'whole,' and the '_nullus_.' You meant to
tell us that your kinsman, Sir Reginald Wychecombe, was of the
'half-blood' as respects yourself, and that Mr. Thomas Wychecombe, your
nephew, is what is termed in law--however painful this may be,
gentlemen, at such solemn moments the truth must be plainly spoken--that
Mr. Thomas Wychecombe is what the law terms a '_filius nullius_.' If we
have understood you in this, also, have the goodness to give this
company the same sign of assent."

The last words were scarcely spoken, before Sir Wycherly again raised
his arm, and nodded his head.

"Here there can be no mistake, and no one rejoices in it more than I do
myself; for, the unintelligible words gave me a great deal of vexation.
Well, my dear sir, understanding your wishes, my secretary, Mr. Atwood,
has drawn the commencement of a will, in the usual form, using your own
pious and proper language of--'In the name of God, Amen,' as the
commencement; and he stands ready to write down your bequests, as you
may see fit to name them. We will take them, first, on a separate piece
of paper; then read them to you, for your approbation; and afterwards,
transcribe them into the will. I believe, Sir Reginald, that mode would
withstand the subtleties of all the gentlemen of all the Inns of Court?"

"It is a very proper and prudent mode for executing a will, sir, under
the peculiar circumstances," returned he of Hertfordshire. "But, Sir
Gervaise, my situation, here, is a little delicate, as may be that of
Mr. Thomas Wychecombe--others of the name and family, if any such there
be. Would it not be well to inquire if our presence is actually desired
by the intended testator?"

"Is it your wish, Sir Wycherly, that your kinsmen and namesakes remain
in the room, or shall they retire until the will is executed? I will
call over the names of the company, and when you wish any one, in
particular, to stay in the room, you will nod your head."

"All--all stay," muttered Sir Wycherly; "Sir
Reginald--Tom--Wycherly--all--"

"This seems explicit enough, gentlemen," resumed the vice-admiral. "You
are _all_ requested to stay; and, if I might venture an opinion, our
poor friend has named those on whom