ult matters, and a satisfactory adjustment of them,
nothing could conduce so much as a frank intercourse and a friendly
bearing. These were at all times no very difficult requirements from
honest Dan, and he did not assume them now with less sincerity or
willingness that they were to be practised for the benefit of his poor
friend's widow and orphan.

MacNaghten could not help remarking that Fagan's manner, when speaking
of my father's affairs, was characterized by a more than common caution
and reserve, and that he strenuously avoided entering upon anything
which bore, however remotely, upon the provision my mother was to enjoy,
or what arrangements were to be made respecting myself. There was a
will, he thought, in Crowther's possession; but it was of the less
consequence, since the greater part, nearly all, of the Carew property
was under the strictest entail.

"The boy will be rich, one of the richest men in Ireland, if he lives,"
said MacNaghten; but Fagan made no reply for some time, and at last
said,--

"If there be not good sense and moderation exercised on all sides, the
Carews may gain less than will the Court of Chancery."

MacNaghten felt far from reassured by the cautious and guarded reserve
of Fagan's manner; he saw that in the dry, sententious tone of his
remarks there lurked difficulties, and perhaps troubles; but he resolved
to devote himself to the task before him in a spirit of patience and
calm industry which, unhappily for him, he had never brought to bear
upon his own worldly fortunes.

"There is nothing either obtrusive or impertinent," said he, at last,
to Fagan, "in my making these inquiries, for, independently of poor
Walter's affection for me, I know that he always expected me to take the
management of his affairs, should I survive him; and if there be a will,
it is almost certain that I am named his executor in it."

Fagan nodded affirmatively, and merely said,--

"Crowther will be able to clear up this point."

"And when shall we see him?"

"He is in the country, down south, I think, at this moment; but he will
be up by the end of the week. However, there are so many things to be
done that his absence involves no loss of time. Where shall I address
you, if I write?"

"I shall return to Castle Carew this evening, and in all probability
remain there till I hear from you."

"That will do," was the dry answer; and MacNaghten took his leave, more
than ever puzzled by the Grinder's m