The letter, however, came from a stranger, a lawyer in Chicago.
'Your father, I understand, has lately been engaged in--in
commercial speculation on a great scale. His enterprises have proved
unfortunate. One of those financial crashes which are common in
America caused his total ruin.'
Jane drew a deep breath.
'I am sorry to say that is not all. The excitement of the days when
his fate was hanging in the balance led to illness--fatal illness.
He died on the sixth of February.'
Jane, with her eyes bent down, was motionless. After a pause,
Scawthorne continued:
'I will speak of this with Mr. Percival to-morrow, and every inquiry
shall be made--on your behalf.'
'Thank you, sir.'
She rose, very pale, but with more self-command than on entering the
room. The latter part of his communication seemed to have affected
her as a relief.
'Miss Snowdon--if you would allow me to say a few more words. You
will remember I mentioned to you that there was a prospect of my
becoming a partner in the firm which I have hitherto served as
clerk. A certain examination had to be passed that I might be
admitted a solicitor. That is over; in a few days my position as a
member of the firm will be assured.
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