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Rh "He returned to his native land in the hope of recovering his ancestral estates, and was grievously disappointed, tricked and hounded for years. At last he won the great battle, and died."

"I suppose I should weep," said Paul, "but I am no hypocrite. I cannot forget these years of cruel abandonment and misery."

"But," said the lawyer, by way of consolation, "your future is full of promise and brilliance. There is absolutely not a single obstacle in the way of your complete enjoyment of a noble name and wealth."

"That may be true," said Paul. "Fate has played him a scurvy trick to my advantage, but I have become bitter, my heart is sour with evil neglect. I have known starvation of body and soul; I have craved love, sympathy, affection, and only a dog licked my hand. Nothing can move me."

"I don't blame you, my boy, but your future is more than bright."

"A new experience for me," said Paul, who already felt as though a burden had been dropped upon his young life.

"There are many complications likely to arise, in which you will need legal advice. May I consider myself retained in your behalf?"

"I don't know anything about these things," said Paul, "but do for me whatever is necessary."

"By the way," said Salmon, looking at Paul shrewdly, "perhaps you need an advance of money. If so, I can supply you."

Paul laughed. "Me, money? Why, man, I have learned the lesson of starvation so thoroughly that I need nothing."