On the other hand,
how if Romaine should come too late? I have two pieces of business
to be transacted--to die, and to make my will; and, however
desirous I may be to serve you, I cannot postpone the first in
favour of the second beyond a very few hours.'
'Well, sir, I must then contrive to be doing as I did before,' said
I.
'Not so,' said the Count. 'I have an alternative. I have just
drawn my balance at my banker's, a considerable sum, and I am now
to place it in your hands. It will be so much for you and so much
less--' he paused, and smiled with an air of malignity that
surprised me. 'But it is necessary it should be done before
witnesses. Monsieur le Vicomte is of a particular disposition, and
an unwitnessed donation may very easily be twisted into a theft.'
He touched a bell, which was answered by a man having the
appearance of a confidential valet. To him he gave a key.
'Bring me the despatch-box that came yesterday, La Ferriere,' said
he. 'You will at the same time present my compliments to Dr.
Hunter and M. l'Abbe, and request them to step for a few moments to
my room.'
The despatch-box proved to be rather a bulky piece of baggage,
covered with Russia leather. Before the doctor and an excellent
old smiling priest it was passed over into my hands with a very
clear statement of the disposer's wishes; immediately after which,
though the witnesses remained behind to draw up and sign a joint
note of the transaction, Monsieur de Keroual dismissed me to my own
room, La Ferriere following with the invaluable box.
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