"
"He may have committed suicide," said Reginald, with some hesitation.
"It is just possible," answered Gilbert Ashburne; "though from my
knowledge of your uncle's character, I should imagine it most unlikely.
At any rate, his papers will reveal the state of his mind immediately
before his death. It is my suggestion, therefore, that his papers
should be examined immediately by you, as his nearest relative and
acknowledged heir--by me, as magistrate of the district, and in the
presence of Mr. Dalton, who was your uncle's confidential solicitor.
Have you any objection to offer to this course, Mr. Eversleigh, or Sir
Reginald, as I suppose I ought now to call you?" It was the first time
Reginald Eversleigh had heard himself addressed by the title which was
now his own--that title which, borne by the possessor of a great
fortune, bestows so much dignity; but which, when held by a poor man,
is so hollow a mockery. In spite of his fears--in spite of that sense
of remorse which had come upon him since his uncle's death--the sound
of the title was pleasant to his ears, and he stood for the moment
silent, overpowered by the selfish rapture of gratified pride.
The magistrate repeated his question.
"Have you any objection to offer, Sir Reginald?"
"None whatever, Mr. Ashburne."
Reginald Eversleigh was only too glad to accede to the magistrate's
proposition.
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