rning because
there is a locked cupboard of my brother's, which, as his nearest
relative, I presume I have a right to open. I believe there are family
papers in it of great importance. Perhaps you will kindly allow me to
go into the study at once, as I am rather pressed for time.'

'I am sorry to have to refuse you, Major Lester, but I promised your
brother that that cupboard should remain closed till his son came to
open it.'

Major Lester glared at her, but Agatha maintained her quiet composure.

'He must have been as mad as a hatter!' he muttered; then turned
angrily to her.

'And may I ask when my nephew is to be back, as you seem fully
conversant with the affairs of our family?'

'I do not know. Your brother thought he would return this year. Have
you heard anything of your son?'

'My son has met his death by the hands of my nephew, at the instigation
of his father! I warn you, Miss Dane, you may suffer the penalty of
the law by refusing to let me have access to that cupboard. It is a
mere question of time. If my nephew does not return soon, I shall
insist upon having it opened, and I shall bring a lawyer with me to
enforce my authority! I will not detain you longer now.
Good-morning!' And Major Lester took his leave literally trembling
with passion; so Agatha told her sisters afterwards.

'It is very unpleasant for us,' she added; 'I feel quite anxious lest
Major Lester should insist upon having his way.'

'Have you nothing in writing from Mr. Lester himself about it?' asked
Clare; 'I thought the lawyer sent you a written statement by him.'

'Yes, I have that; and, after all, the house is mine, and I suppose
that includes the cupboard.'

'Of course it does. What did Mr. Lester say about the cupboard?'

'That it was not to be opened till his son came; and in this paper he
bequeaths to me a certain portfolio of his that is in it. He says I
can make what use I like of the contents. But of course I shall not
get that till his son appears.'

'It is very romantic altogether,' said Clare; then, trying to speak
indifferently, she added: 'Does Major Lester know how to open the
cupboard, Agatha? I fancy it is not a very easy task.'

'I don't know,' said Agatha; 'perhaps he does not. In that case it is
safe.'

And she thought with satisfaction of her sealed envelope safe at the
bottom of her dressing-case. 'Well,' she added, after a pause, 'I am
not going to worry over it. One must just do w