he letter out, switched on the electric
reading light, and they all read it at the same time. It was written
in Mr. Weatherley's familiar hand, every letter of which was
perfectly distinct and legible.

TO JARVIS AND CHETWODE.

This is a record of certain instructions which I wish
carried out in the event of my unexplained absence from
business at any time.

Firstly--The business is to continue exactly as usual,
and my absence to be alluded to as little as possible. It
can be understood that I am away on the Continent or
elsewhere, on a business voyage.

Secondly--I have deposited a power of attorney at my
solicitors, made out in the joint names of Henry Jarvis
and Arnold Chetwode. This will enable you both to make
and receive contracts on behalf of the firm. As regards
financial affairs, Messrs. Neville, the accountants, have
already the authority to sign cheques, and a
representative from their firm will be in attendance each
day, or according to your request. My letter to Messrs.
Turnbull & James empowers them to make such payments as
are necessary, on the joint application of you two, Henry
Jarvis and Arnold Chetwode, to whom I address this
letter.

Thirdly--I have the most implicit confidence in Henry
Jarvis, who has been in my employ for so many years, and
I beg him to understand that I associate with him one so
much his junior, for certain reasons into which I beg
that he will not inquire.

Fourthly--I repeat that I desire as little publicity as
possible to be given to my absence, and that no money be
spent on advertisements, or any other form of search. If
within two years from the date of the opening of this
letter, I have not been heard from further, I desire that
the usual steps be taken to presume my decease. My will
and all further particulars are with Messrs. Turnbull &
James.

Fifthly--I desire you to pay to my wife the sum of five
hundred pounds monthly. All other matters concerning my
private estate, etc. are embodied in the letter to
Messrs. Turnbull & James.

They all finished reading the letter about the same time. Mr.
Jarvis' bewilderment grew deeper and deeper.

"This is the most extraordinary document I ever read in my life!" he
exclaimed. "Why, it seems as though