But--there is the possibility of the duplicate to which Cobcroft
referred. Now, I want to put the question straight to you--supposing
that duplicate will can be found--and supposing--to put it plainly---its
terms dispossess you of all your considerable property--what then?"
"Do you want the exact truth?" she asked. "Well, then, I should just
welcome anything that cleared up all this mystery! What is it at
present, this situation, but intolerable? I know that my
mother is in Pratt's power, and likely to remain so as long as ever this
goes on--probably for life. She will not give me her confidence. What is
more, I am certain that she is giving it to Esther Mawson--who is most
likely hand-in-glove with Pratt. Esther Mawson is always with her. I am
almost sure that she communicates with Pratt through Esther Mawson. It
is all what I say--intolerable! I had rather lose every penny that has
come into my hands than have this go on."
"Answer me a plain question," said Collingwood. "Is your mother fond of
money, position--all that sort of thing?"
"She is fond of power!" replied Nesta. "It pleased her greatly when we
came into all this wealth to know that she was the virtual
administrator. Even if she could only do it by collusion with Pratt, she
would make a fight for all that she--and I--hold. It's useless to deny
that. Don't forget," she added, looking appealingly at Collingwood,
"don't forget that she has known what it was to be poor--and if one does
come into money--I suppose one doesn't want to lose it again.
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