"It is about the
will," Frank advised him.
"So you would complain of your poor mother, would you?" said his
stepfather, in a tone of virtuous indignation.
"I cannot believe that my mother made that will."
Mr. Manning colored. He scented danger. Should Frank drop such hints
elsewhere, he might make trouble, and lead to a legal investigation,
which Mr. Manning had every reason to dread.
"This is very foolish," he said, more mildly. "No doubt you are
disappointed, but probably your mother has provided wisely. You will
want for nothing, and you will be prepared for the responsibilities of
manhood under my auspices."
Mr. Manning's face assumed a look of self-complacence as he uttered
these last words.
"I have no blame to cast upon my dear mother," said Frank. "If she made
that will, she acted under a great mistake."
"What mistake, sir?"
"She failed to understand you."
"Do you mean to imply that I shall be false to my trust?"
"Not at present, sir. I don't wish to judge of you too hastily."
As the boy turned to go, he said. "I have nothing further to say, sir."
"But I have," said Mr. Manning.
"Very well, sir."
"I demand that you treat my son Mark with suitable respect, and forbear
to infringe upon his rights.
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