He dashed immediately into the subject that had brought him there.

"I have come, Mr.Somers," said he, "to ask you a question about the property." "About the Castle Richmond property ?" said Mr.Somers, rather surprised by his visitor's manner.
"Yes; you know in what a state my poor father now is." "I know that Sir Thomas is not very well.

I am sorry to say that it is long since he has been quite himself." "There is something that is preying upon his spirits." "I am afraid so, Herbert." "Then tell me fairly, Mr.Somers, do you know what it is ?" "Not--in--the least.

I have no conception whatever, and never have had any.

I know no cause for trouble that should disquiet him." "There is nothing wrong about the property ?" "Not to my knowledge." "Who has the title-deeds ?" "They are at Coutts's." "You are sure of that ?" "Well; as sure as a man can be of a thing that he does not see.