tion, during which I stated to him that I had
some money of my own, as well as what had been left me by Lady R--,
which I wished to put in safety. He recommended that I should lodge
what I then had at a banker's, and, as soon as I had received the rest,
he would look out for a good mortgage for me. He then handed me into a
coach, and bade me farewell, stating that he would call on the day after
the morrow, at three o'clock, as by that time Lady R--'s maid must have
arrived, and I should have obtained possession of the key of the tin
box, the papers in which he was anxious to examine.

On my return to Baker Street, I found that Lady R--'s maid had arrived,
and I, of course, immediately took possession of everything. I then
paid her her wages, and dismissed her, giving her permission to remain
and sleep in the house, and promising her a character. It appeared very
summary to dismiss her so soon, but I was anxious she should not see
Lionel, and I told her that, as executrix, I was not warranted in
keeping her a day longer than was necessary, as I was answerable for all
expenses. Having now the keys, I was able to examine everything. I
first found the tin box, with various papers in it; among others a
packet, on which was written, "Papers relative to my sister Ellen and
her child." I thought I would not open them till Mr Selwyn was
present, as it might appear as if I was curious, so I laid them aside.
I then despatched the cook with a note to Madame Gironac, requesting
that she would come and spend the evening with me, as I had much to
communicate to her. Indeed, I felt dull alone in such a large house,
and I also felt the want of a sincere friend to talk with.

Having nothing better to do, I opened the various drawers and cupboards
which contained the apparel, etcetera, of Lady R--, and found such a
mass of things that I was astonished. In her whimsical way, she had at
times purchased silks and various jewels, which she had never made use
of, but thrown on one side. There were more stuffs for making up
dresses than dresses made up,--I should say nearly double. I found one
large bundle of point-lace, some of it of great beauty, which I presume
had belonged to her mother; and of other laces there was a great
quantity. The jewels which she had taken abroad with her were very few,
and such as she wore in common; her diamonds, and all that was of value,
I knew she had sent to her banker's a day or two previous to he