And it is a story that might easily be--discredited." So the "eccentric Oscard" finished his earthly career in the intellectual atmosphere of a coroner's jury.

And the world rather liked it than otherwise.

The world, one finds, does like novelty, even in death.

Some day an American will invent a new funeral, and if he can only get the patent, will make a fortune.
The world was, moreover, pleased to pity Guy Oscard with that pure and simple sympathy which is ever accorded to the wealthy in affliction.
Every one knew that Thomas Oscard had enjoyed affluence during his lifetime, and there was no reason to suppose that Guy would not step into very comfortably lined shoes.

It was unfortunate that he should lose his father in such a tragic way, and the keen eye of the world saw the weak point in his story at once.