The child is already furnished with a guardian--a guardian,
my dear sir, who will nullify your legal claim upon the child by the
simple expedient of taking your life."
"But, excuse me--"
"You will waive your claim, of course. But let me advise you also to
conceal it; for Captain Barker is quite capable, should he get hold
of this will, of regarding your mere existence as an insult."
"But, dear me--if you'll allow me to speak--I am not talking of
myself."
"No?"
"No; I am not the child's legal guardian."
"I congratulate you. But who is it, then?"
"It is you, Captain Runacles."
"What!" The Captain leapt up and glared at Mr. Finch incredulously.
"Here is a copy of the will; read for yourself. My friend, Silvanus
Tellworthy, remembered you as a friend of his early days and as a man
of probity. He had heard also, from time to time, news of your
public actions that increased his esteem. He was informed--pardon me
if I mention it--of your sincere and honourable affection for his
niece; and, indeed, hoped, I may say--"
"No more on that point, if you please."
"Sir, I am silent, and ask your pardon."
"But--but--Doctor, this is simply astounding. Do you hear what this
gentleman says?--that I--I alone--am Tristram's guardian after all?"
Mr.
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