"It is only right to add that there is not the least foundation in fact
for this idea of mine. During the latter part of his fatal illness, my
poor uncle was quite incapable of speaking on any subject whatever. From
the time of my arrival at St. Crux, in the middle of last month, to the
time of his death, not a word dropped from him which referred in the
remotest way to the Secret Trust.
"Here then, for the present, the matter rests. If you think it right to
communicate the contents of this letter to Miss Vanstone, pray tell
her that it will not be my fault if her sister's assertion (however
preposterous it may seem to my uncle's executors) is not fairly put to
the proof.
"Believe me, dear Miss Garth, always truly yours,
"GEORGE BARTRAM.
"P. S.--As soon as all business matters are settled, I am going abroad
for some months, to try the relief of change of scene. The house will be
shut up, and left under the charge of Mrs. Drake. I have not forgotten
your once telling me that you should like to see St. Crux, if you ever
found yourself in this neighborhood. If you are at all likely to be
in Essex during the time when I am abroad, I have provided against the
chance of your being disappointed, by leaving instructions with Mrs.
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