CHAPTER XXIIDenboro was cooling down after a
feverish two weeks.
Trent were, apparently, not asintimate as they had
been during her grandmothers life. He struck the desk with his clenched
fist.
Reports from Clement Bakers spareroom grew less and
less encouraging.
Goodthing that safe was saved whole, wasnt it? His
uncles first move was to close and lock the door.
Abijah Bradfordcould have endorsed murder sooner
than that.
I dont understand it, boy, he said, with a puzzled
frown.
And, afterward, perhaps, you may wish to show
themto your nephew.
They were all in it together and here was proof
thattied em in.
Chris was lookin pretty sour and out of sorts,
accordingto the Bassett estimate. You will listen, Mother, until I have finished?
Cousin Hettie straightened her thin shoulders.
Afterward, had he been asked to name the persons
whom he met, hecould not have done it.
If SHESbeen holdin back anything all these years
she wont hold it anylonger.
They paid the money onthat ship and
cargo.
Yes, Mother, he said, almost with
impatience.
Twas signed by her, ofcourse, and witnessed by two
of the servants and Eliab Gibbons. I feel it as keenly as you do, be sure
ofthat.
There were ever so many of them, four or
fivecompartments crowded full.