Runciman walked up to Hoppet Hall behind the
fly, after Mr. Masters had left it; and, while helping her ladyship
out, made inquiry as to the condition of things at Bragton
generally. "I was sorry to hear of their sending for any lawyer,"
said Mr. Runciman. Then Lady Ushant protested that the lawyer had
not been sent for by her nephew, and that her nephew had not even
seen him. "Oh, indeed," said Mr. Runciman, who immediately took a
walk round his own paddock with the object of putting two and two
together. Mr. Runciman was a discreet man, and did not allow this
piece of information to spread itself generally. He told Dr.
Nupper, and Mr. Hampton, and Lord Rufford,--for the hounds went out
on Friday, though the Squire of Bragton was lying dead;--but he did
not tell Mr. Mainwaring, whom he encountered in the street of the
town as he was coming home early, and who was very keen to learn
whatever news there was.
Reginald Morton on Friday did not go near Bragton. That of course
was palpable to all, and was a great sign that he himself did not
regard himself as the heir. He had for awhile been very intimate at
the house, visiting it daily--and during a part of that time the
grandmother had been altogether absent. Then she had come back, and
he had discontinued his visits. And now he did not even go over to
seal up the drawers and to make arrangements as to the funeral.
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