There were certainly few young ladies who would have clearly realised that a solicitor cannot be called upon to commit himself, until he has had time to weigh matters and decide upon them.

His long and varied experience had included interviews in which charming, emotional women had expected him at once to "take sides." Miss Vanderpoel exhibited no signs of expecting anything of this kind, even when she went on with what she had come to say.

Stornham Court and its surroundings were depreciating seriously in value through need of radical repairs etc.

Her sister's comfort was naturally involved, and, as Mr.Townlinson would fully understand, her nephew's future.

The sooner the process of dilapidation was arrested, the better and with the less difficulty.