'I say it!' he answered.
The reply might have shaken some men.

The lawyer stood on his ground as firmly as ever.
'I believe I am right,' he rejoined, 'in stating that his lordship's income is not more than sufficient to support his station in life; also that it is an income derived almost entirely from landed property in Ireland, every acre of which is entailed.' Montbarry's brother made a sign, admitting that he had no objection to offer so far.
'If his lordship dies first,' the lawyer proceeded, 'I have been informed that the only provision he can make for his widow consists in a rent-charge on the property of no more than four hundred a year.

His retiring pension and allowances, it is well known, die with him.

Four hundred a year is therefore all that he can leave to the Countess, if he leaves her a widow.' 'Four hundred a year is not all,' was the reply to this.

'My brother has insured his life for ten thousand pounds; and he has settled the whole of it on the Countess, in the event of his death.' This announcement produced a strong sensation.