ious charities in which she
never took any particular interest when living."

"Do you suspect anyone of influencing her to this disposition of her
property?"

"Yes, she had various conversations with a collector for these societies,
who resided in the town during the summer, who sought an introduction when
he learned that she was a lady of independent fortune. He called
frequently, and flattered my sister, who had lately shown signs of mental
weakness."

"Did she cut off your family entirely in her will?"

"Yes, she didn't leave even a dollar to any one of my children, though one
of my daughters was named for her."

"Was the collector entitled to a commission on sums secured for the
societies which he represented?"

"Yes, that is the cause of his zeal. He would make a very handsome
percentage on an estate as large as my sister's."

"But for him would she have been likely to cut off her relatives?"

"No. We should probably have received every dollar."

"Do you think the collector cherished any matrimonial designs with
reference to your sister?"

"I did think so at one time, but Martha's condition as an invalid led her
to discourage his attentions, though she was evidently flattered by
them."

"Of course you wish to break the will?"

"Yes. Do you think it can be done?"

"Upon the basis of what you have told me I should think the chances were
greatly in your favor."

His companion brightened up very perceptibly at this assurance.

"Have you ever been employed in any similar cases?" he asked.

"My dear sir, I have a very important case of the kind on my hands at this
moment. The amount involved is quarter of a million dollars."

Mr. Bolton rose greatly in the estimation of his new client after this
statement.

"Is the case at all similar?"

"Hardly. It is the case of a will concealed, or rather suppressed, and
acting upon a will previously made. I cannot go into details, as I wish to
keep our enemy in the dark."

"I understand. Have you your card with you, so that I can call at your
office?"

This was a puzzling question for Bolton, but he was equal to the
occasion.

"Tell me what hotel you propose to stop at, and I will call upon you at
eleven o'clock to-morrow morning."

"I don't know much about the New York hotels."

"Then let me recommend a house," naming a comfortable but not expensive
hostelry on upper Broadway.

"I will go there."

"I think you have not yet mentioned your name."