r Thomas. But in this respect it was
probable that Herbert might soon take the lead.

He was a large, heavy, consequential man, always very busy, as though
aware of being one of the most important wheels that kept the Irish
clock agoing; but he was honest, kind-hearted in the main, true as
steel to his employers, and good-humoured--as long as he was allowed
to have his own way. In these latter days he had been a little soured
by Herbert's interference, and had even gone so far as to say that,
"in his humble judgment, Mr. Fitzgerald was wrong in doing"--so and
so. But he generally called him Herbert, was always kind to him, and
in his heart of hearts loved him dearly. But that was a matter of
course, for had he not been agent to the estate before Herbert was
born?

Immediately after his interview with his mother, Mr. Herbert rode
over to Mr. Somers's house, and there found him sitting alone in his
office. He dashed immediately into the subject that had brought him
there. "I have come, Mr. Somers," said he, "to ask you a question
about the property."

"About the Castle Richmond property?" said Mr. Somers, rather
surprised by his visitor's manner.

"Yes; you know in what a state my poor father now is."

"I know that Sir Thomas is not very well. I am sorry to say that it
is long since he has been quite himself."

"There is something that is preying upon his spirits."

"I am afraid so, Herbert."

"Then tell me fairly, Mr. Somers, do you know what it is?"

"Not--in--the least. I have no conception whatever, and never have
had any. I know no cause for trouble that should disquiet him."

"There is nothing wrong about the property?"

"Not to my knowledge."

"Who has the title-deeds?"

"They are at Coutts's."

"You are sure of that?"

"Well; as sure as a man can be of a thing that he does not see. I
have never seen them there; indeed, have never seen them at all; but
I feel no doubt in my own mind as to their being at the bankers."

"Is there much due on the estate?"

"Very little. No estate in county Cork has less on it. Miss Letty has
her income, and when Poulnasherry was bought,--that townland lying
just under Berryhill, where the gorse cover is, part of the purchase
money was left on mortgage. That is still due; but the interest is
less than a hundred a year."

"And that is all?"

"All that I know of."

"Could there be encumbrances without your knowing it?"

"I think not. I think it is impossible.