There's no justice in
this world for the widow and the fatherless."
"I cannot believe that Mr. Newton could be rude or unkind!" exclaimed
Katherine, much startled.
"I do not say he was," returned Mrs. Fred, snappishly. "But either he is
a stupid old idiot, or he has been telling me abominable stories. I
don't--I can't believe them! Do you know he says he, they, all the old
rogues together, believe that wretched miser had destroyed his will and
died intestate, and that every penny will be yours; not a sou comes to
the widow and children of the nephew. It is preposterous. It is the most
monstrous injustice. If it is law, an act of Parliament ought to be
passed to--to do away with it. Fancy your having everything, and me, my
boys and myself, dependent on _you_!"--scornful emphasis on "you."
"Is this possible?" exclaimed Katherine, dropping her duster in dismay.
"I thought that the property would be divided between the boys and
myself."
"Why, that is only common-sense! If you _do_ get everything you will be
well rewarded for your three months' penal servitude. You knew what you
were about, though you _do_ despise rank and riches."
"But, Ada, I suppose my uncle would have destroyed his will whether I
had been there or not.
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