But, as soon as the will was produced, Hurst would become suspicious.

He would probably make a statement to the coroner and I should be charged with the murder.

Or, even if I were not charged, Hurst would suspect me and would probably repudiate the assignment; and, under the circumstances, it would be practically impossible for me to enforce it.

He would refuse to pay and I could not take my claim into Court.
"I sat down on the stairs just above poor John's body and considered the matter in detail.

At the worst, I stood a fair chance of hanging; at the best, I stood to lose close upon fifty thousand pounds.