" Coolidge said with dignity. "Even now it is subject
to my approval."
"I think not. Your guardianship was merely a special provision of the
will, with reference to the estate. So I understand, at least. At
twenty-one, she became mistress of her own personal affairs, and no
longer needed to consult you."
"I controlled her income."
"Only the surplus; a certain sum was to be paid her each month until she
was twenty-five; then the entire estate came into her possession. Beyond
this you exercised no legal authority."
"You seem well posted."
"The lady herself informed me as to these facts."
"Since yesterday?"
"Yes, since yesterday."
"Where, may I ask?"
"In the summer-house here, a few moments ago."
Coolidge gave utterance to an oath, which burst from his lips before it
could be wholly restrained.
"Damn you! just what is your game?" he exclaimed roughly, forgetting his
pose. "Are you trying to get your nose into my affairs?"
"Most certainly not," returned West coolly, yet facing the other with a
steady eye. "I can have no possible interest in your affairs. But I may
be led to investigate those of Miss Coolidge, if she should so request.
It seems she possesses no one to represent her at present--not even the
family lawyer."
"What do you imply by that remark?"
"That she has gone to you, and to the attorney, who represents the
estate, relative to some very strange occurrences of late, only to be
laughed at.
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