At present, I only know
that a large amount of property has been withheld from Miss Elder; and
that I have only to bring this man Martin into a court of justice to
have every thing made clear."
"And this you purpose doing?"
"I shall do so, undoubtedly; unless the object to be gained by such a
course is secured in another way."
"Quite as much, believe me, Edward, can be gained through private
arrangement as by legal investigation," returned Jasper, his manner
greatly subdued. "You and I can settle every thing, I am sure, between
ourselves; and, as far as my ability will carry me, it shall be to
your entire satisfaction. I have greatly mistaken your character, or
you will take no pleasure in destroying me."
"Pleasure in destroying you?" Claire was still further affected with
surprise. "In no man's destruction could I take pleasure."
"I believe you Edward. And now let me give you a history of this
matter from the beginning. You will know better what course to pursue
when you comprehend it fully."
And then, to the astonished ears of Claire, Jasper related how,
through the man Martin, he became possessed of the fact that the
supposed almost valueless piece of land in Pennsylvania which Mr.
Elder had taken to secure a debt of five hundred dollars, contained
a rich coal deposite--and how, as executor to his estate, and the
guardian of his child, he had by presenting the child in person before
commissioners appointed by the court, obtained an order for the sale
of the land, with the declared purpose of investing the proceeds in
some productive property.
Pages:
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216