n such a free-handed, princely way."

Frederik could not resist a sarcastic chuckle, as he glanced toward the
three backs once more, and then began to read the memorandum aloud.

"_For Mrs. Batholommey:_"

He got no further for, at the first word, the three chairs were turned
around to face Frederik, quickly and simultaneously; so that the
beneficiaries might not have even their own backs between them and their
coming fortune.

At hearing her name, Mrs. Batholommey burst out:

"The dear man! To think he remembered _me_! I knew he'd remember the
church and Mr. Batholommey--of course--but to think he'd remember _me_!"

Here she cast her eyes up to heaven in grateful recognition.

"He knew that our income was very limited," she went on comfortably. "He
was _so thoughtful_. His purse," she sighed with feeling, "was always
open."

Having delivered this eulogism of the dead, the lady folded her hands
placidly, and with eyes cast down, but attentive, settled herself to
await developments.

Frederik looked at her a moment, grinned to himself, then continued:

"_For Mr. Batholommey:_"

The clergyman nodded solemnly, but a pleased expression crept about the
corners of his mouth and his face took on an extra look of smugness.

"Our reward is laid up for us," he murmured sententiously, "where we
least expect it."

"Quite so----" said Frederik shortly. "And as the doctor isn't
here--well, the next is you, Colonel. The others mentioned are people
in his employ."

Colonel Lawton settled lower in his chair, until he might almost be said
to be lying on his back. He crossed his legs luxuriously and took a
cigar from his pocket, saying as he lighted it:

"He knew I did the best I could for him--the _grand old man_!" Then
dropping the eulogistic tone for one of strict business:

"What'd he leave me?"

Frederik kept them waiting a moment longer. He was having the time of
his life. He had purposely strung out the situation to its last thread,
for the joy of witnessing the self-satisfied eagerness of the three
legatees. Silent now, but acutely attentive, they sat with watchful eyes
trained on Frederik and the all-important paper which he was holding so
carelessly in his hand--the paper that was presently to tell them so
much of moment. Then it came.

"Mrs. Batholommey, he wishes you to have his miniature--with his
affectionate regard."

Frederik took a miniature from the desk drawer and offered it to Mrs.
Batholommey