Indeed, but for the deep interest West already felt in the girl herself, he would have dismissed this angle of the problem entirely from consideration.

It seemed far too melodramatic and improbable to be taken seriously, although, from mere curiosity, he purposed to round up this masquerader, and satisfy himself as to why she was thus publicly impersonating the girl.

Yet this appeared a matter of minor importance, his real task being to learn the condition of the Steven Coolidge estate, and whether or not, Percival had administered it justly.

Once satisfied upon that point, he would know better what further steps to take.

His whole mind had unconsciously centred upon a distrust of the man.