His attitude is one of correct neutrality." "That is satisfactory, so far," said Thorndyke, "though he may alter his tone when the case comes into Court.

From what you said just now I gathered that Jellicoe would prefer to have the will administered and be quit of the whole business; which is natural enough, especially as he benefits under the will to the extent of two thousand pounds and a valuable collection.

Consequently, we may fairly assume that, even if he maintains an apparent neutrality, his influence will be exerted in favour of Hurst rather than of Bellingham; from which it follows that Bellingham ought certainly to be properly advised, and, when the case goes into Court, properly represented." "He can't afford either the one or the other," said I."He's as poor as an insolvent church mouse and as proud as the devil.

He wouldn't accept professional aid that he couldn't pay for." "H'm," grunted Thorndyke, "that's awkward.

But we can't allow the case to go 'by default,' so to speak--to fail for the mere lack of technical assistance.