in any legal work that might be intrusted to him.

But how could he, an unknown man, recommend himself to any lawyer whose
standing and business would make a connection with him desirable? Perhaps
in any other business there would be less difficulty in making a start.

But Mr. Bolton was resolute and determined, and fortune favored him.

Within thirty miles of the city a stout gentleman of perhaps fifty entered
the car and sat beside him. He looked like a well-to-do business man, free
from care, but for the anxious expression on his face. He appeared like a
man in trouble who stood in need of advice.

The train had gone several miles before he decided to confide in the quiet
man who sat beside him. He had already taken stock of Bolton in furtive
glances.

"There is something on his mind," thought Bolton. "He looks as if he
wished to speak to some one."

He addressed a casual remark to his companion, who instantly responded.

"I don't like to trouble you," he said, "but I am somewhat perplexed."

"My dear sir, if in any way I can help you I shall be glad to do so,"
answered Bolton. "I am a lawyer----"

"Are you?" said the other eagerly. "I want to meet a good, honest and
smart lawyer, who will undertake a case for me."

Bolton pricked up his ears. This seemed to be a providential opportunity,
of which he resolved to avail himself.

"I should not like to praise myself," he said modestly, "but I think you
will find me faithful to your interests."

"No doubt of it, sir. Are you a New York lawyer?"

"I am about to connect myself with a law firm in the city," answered
Bolton, hoping that this statement might prove accurate.

"Then you will be able to help me."

"State your case, if you don't mind."

Bolton took out a small memorandum-book, and, pencil in hand, sat ready to
take down the important points.

"Twenty years ago my father died, leaving an estate of fifty thousand
dollars. It was divided equally between my sister Martha and myself. I
married, and Martha for the last twenty years has been a member of my
family. Being a spinster, with only herself to provide for, her property
has doubled, while I, having several children, have barely held my own. Of
course I expected that my children and myself would inherit Martha's money
when she died."

"Very natural, sir, and very just."

"Well, Martha died last August. Imagine my dismay when her will was opened
and proved to bequeath her entire estate to var