Page:Barr--Stranleighs millions.djvu/24

12 "Of course not, but the point at issue is, do you promise?"

"Yes," faltered the woman.

"Well, if I can make no headway with the stubborn Richard Brassard, or the equally stubborn John Bendale, thank goodness I have still some influence with the women. Now here is the street and number of my town house, and anything sent there will be forwarded if I am not at home. In spite of your promise I am quite certain that you will wait till the very last moment before applying to me. I wish to forestall you in this, and so must insist on your accepting a small cheque on account. I shall just write it out now, and you will take it with you. Open an account in your own name in some bank close at hand, and deposit this amount to your credit; then, in case I should be away from home, and not easily reached, you will be independent and my mind will be easy."

Mrs. Bendale glanced at the figure he had written and was about to speak when he raised his hand.

"I know exactly what is in your mind; the sum is larger than you expected, but permit me to point out that this has nothing to do with the case. The money may just as well rest in your bank as in mine. You can pay it back any time you wish, and I shall feel easier in knowing that help is at your hand if needed. You see, Mrs. Bendale, you are by way of being a member of my family; we