consequences which the appearance of this document involved.

"This is a serious matter," he said, looking up at Mrs. Montgomery.

"It is," she answered, calmly. "The will appears to be in legal form."

"Yes."

"And must go into the hands of those who are named as executors."

"And be by them entered in the office of probate," added Wallingford.

"I would have placed it in their hands immediately on its discovery, but
have, acting under advice from my kind friend here, waited until your
return from England. No interest has suffered, I presume, by this
delay?"

"None."

Wallingford bent his eyes to the floor, and sat for some time as if
half-confounded by the discovery.

"What step will the executors probably take?" I inquired.

"It will be their duty to assume possession of the estate, and hold it
for the heirs of Mrs. Allen, if any are in existence," he replied.

"And it will be their duty to take all proper means for discovering
these heirs?" said I.

"Yes. That follows, of course."

"And if none are found within a reasonable time?" I asked.

"The phrase, a reasonable time, is very indeterminate," said
Wallingford. "It may include one, or ten years, according to the facts
in the case, the views of the executors and the courts."

"But, finally?"

"Finally," he answered, "if no heirs come forward to claim the estate,
it will revert to the old line of descent through the blood relations of
Captain Allen."

"And come into the possession of Mrs. Montgomery?"

"Yes, if the courts are satisfied with the evidence which can be
presented in her favor."

There followed a long silence, which Mrs. Montgomery was first to break.

"I believe," she said, firmly, "that I am prepared for the final issue
of this matter, whatever it may be. I shall still require legal advice,
Mr. Wallingford."

The young man bowed assent.

"And, as Judge Bigelow is one of the executors--"

"I do not think, madam," said Wallingford, interrupting her, "that the
fact of his executorship will make him any the less a safe adviser for
you. He is a man of the highest integrity of character, clear-seeing,
and of impartial judgment."

"I believe in his judgment and integrity," she replied. "Still, I do not
think it well to have these two interests represented by the same man.
You are his associate, if I understand correctly the relation between
you."

"I am, in a certain sense."

"Do you have a share in all of his business?"