Had they consulted only their own inclination, they would have taken
their own departure immediately after seeing Eric laid in his grave; but
Lester's duties as executor and guardian made it necessary for them to
stay on for some weeks.
The cottage was a part of Evelyn's portion of the estate, but Laura was
given the right to make it her home so long as she remained Eric's widow.
Laura knew this, having read the will, but as that instrument made no
mention of Eric's desire that his daughter should reside with her
guardian, she was not aware of that fact; and feeling well nigh certain
that it would rouse her anger and opposition, Lester dreaded making the
disclosure.
But while perplexing himself with the question how best to approach her
on the subject, he found among his brother's papers, a sealed letter
addressed to her.
Calling Evelyn, he put it into her hand, bidding her carry it to her
mother.
Half an hour later the little girl was again at his side, asking in
tearful tones, "Uncle Lester, must mamma and I be separated?"
He was in the library, seated before a table, and seemed very busy over a
pile of papers laid thereon; but pushing back his chair, he threw his arm
round her waist and drew her to his knee.
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