"It will probably take a number of months, my dear madam, to settle up this estate, even if there should be no contest; and if the case is contested, it may drag on for years, eh, Mr.Whitney ?" "That will depend upon circumstances.

A contest would, of course, delay the case, perhaps for several months; but I am not aware of any contestants with sufficient means for continuing it the length of time you mention." "Mercy me!" exclaimed Mrs.Mainwaring, addressing her husband; "do you and Hugh intend to remain here all that time ?" "Our stay will probably be somewhat indefinite," he replied, evasively; "but that is no reason why you and the young ladies need remain against your will." "Indeed! Why could you not have said as much before?
Neither Isabel nor I care to remain here a day longer than is necessary; we have simply been awaiting your pleasure.

Wilson, bring me the morning papers; I want to see what boats are expected.

We will take the first steamer home.

Mr.Thornton, will you and the young ladies accompany us, or do you prefer to remain in exile a while longer ?" "Well," replied that gentleman, smiling genially, "speaking for myself, I would more than half like to stay and see this thing through; but the ladies are in the majority, and I will abide by their decision.