But
why did he keep it a secret? Why did he... I don't understand that.
Of course the money was his; all we had was his, by right. But to say
nothing... and to let us believe... It does not seem like him at all.
It..."
Sylvester interrupted quickly. "Caroline! Caroline!" he said, "don't
make any mistake. Don't misjudge your uncle again. He is a good man; one
of the best men I ever knew. Yes, and one of the wisest. Don't say
or think anything for which you may be sorry. I am speaking as your
friend."
She turned toward him once more, the distressed, puzzled look still on
her face. "But I don't understand," she cried. "He... Oh, Mr. Sylvester,
please, now that I do know--now that you have told me so much--won't you
tell me the rest; the reason and--all of it? Please!"
The lawyer shook his head, regarding her with an expression of annoyance
and reluctant admiration.
"Now that I'VE told you!" he repeated. "I don't remember that I've told
you anything."
"But you have. Not in words, perhaps, but you have told me. I know.
Please go on and tell me all. If you don't," with determination, "I
shall make Uncle Elisha tell me as soon as he comes. I shall!"
Sylvester sighed. "Well, by George!" he repeated, feelingly. "I'll tell
you one thing, young woman, you're wasting your talents.
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