But, Mr.Mainwaring, I wish to say a word or two for myself.

In the coming litigation over the estate, I, as Ralph Mainwaring's counsel, am bound to do my part without any reference to my own personal opinions or prejudices, and I expect to meet you and your counsel in an open fight,--perhaps a bitter one.

But this much I have to say: Should Ralph Mainwaring undertake to bring against you any action of the character which he has threatened," here Mr.Whitney rose to his feet and brought his hand down with a ringing blow upon the table at his side, "he will have to employ other counsel than myself, for I will have nothing whatever to do with such a case." He paused a moment, then continued: "I do not claim to understand you perfectly, Mr.Mainwaring.

I will confess you have always been a mystery to me, and you are still.

There are depths about you that I cannot fathom.