ent for him to leave the leases in the
strong-box in his office at Weymouth. But Herbert replied that
they were stowed away in a far safer place, and that he had not
the least fear in the world of their being stolen.

"Now, this is just what my husband knew also. Once when they were
chatting together Herbert mentioned that the house like many other
old mansions contained a secret chamber. He said: 'I can't tell
you where it is, Withers; for although it is never likely to be
used again, the knowledge of this hiding-place has been passed
down from generation to generation as a family secret. I gave a
solemn promise never to reveal it when I was first informed of its
existence; and although in these days there is no occasion to hide
priests or conspirators, I do not consider myself released from
the promise I gave. Possibly some day the hiding-place may prove
of value again. There may be a price set on the head of a Penfold,
who can tell? Anyhow it is likely to remain a secret as long as
the old house stands; and in the meantime I find it a useful place
for keeping things that I do not want lying about.' Mr. Tallboys
appeared very vexed at hearing what my husband said.

"'It is very strange.' he said, 'that sensible men will do such
foolish things. It is probable enough that Herbert Penfold has
placed this will in the hiding-place you speak of, and in that
case I foresee that we shall have no end of trouble. I know you
are both aware of the nature of Mr. Penfold's will, and you may be
sure that if those sisters of his also know of it--whether they do
or not I can't say--they will bitterly resent it. I know enough of
the family history to know that. It was evident by Miss Penfold's
answer to me to-day that either she does not know the secret of
this hiding-place--which is of course possible--or that if she
does know she does not mean to say. I should imagine myself that
she does know.

"'Had Herbert Penfold been of age when his father died it is
likely enough that he only as head of the family would have been
told by his father of its existence; but you see he was but a lad
at that time, while the Miss Penfolds were women, and were
therefore probably informed of the secret. It is very awkward,
extremely awkward. Of course the will may turn up between this and
the funeral; but