The Irish standard. [volume] (Minneapolis, Minn. ;) 1886-1920, 1901-09-14
tricky. Holbin estimated Broduar a

DIOuuuE i6
clear-headed, blunt, ilnpolitic fell
low, beyond the comprehension of
plots and counterplots-a man to be
used if his confidence could be gained.
He was, most likely, in position to
serve him; for it was Raymond's con-
clusion that the shortest way to ar
rive at the truth of the shooting lay
in the discovery of the wounded man.
And if the victim were not actually
Brodnar's patient, Brodnar might cas-
lily identify him. 1t was tribute to
Richmond's popular physician that
Holbin decided at once that the best
chance for success lay in seeming
ly frank and open statement of the
main facts. The doubtful point was
Louise. Brodnar had been present
at the reading of the will when the
question concerning her was asked;
but. he concluded, over hastily,
Brodnar could hardly know anything
about her beyond the name that had
been uttered. He determined, with
gamblers quick decision, to play the
stake. supposing that if he did not
win his loss would be small.
He entered the doctors office upon
the afternoon of the funeral and
presently the door between the inner
aud outer offices opened. Brodnar
stood upon the threshold looking at
him. At once Holhin remarked sim
gular expression in the physicians
face. Afterwards he recalled that
Brodnar reached back and closed the
door behind him.
Doctor" he began. disregarding the
others stiffness and formality, II have
called to consult you on certain mat
ter of private nature directly affect
ing the family with which we both,
| to some extent, are connected. Have
you few moments to spare me?" The
doctors face had darkened percepti-
bly, and was turned aside for moment.
II am afraid. sir" he said. at length,
"that you have made a mistake. l am
moi qualified to advise you in any re-
srcct. know of nothing affecting the
| Brookin family-I suppose you refer
to the Brookins-in which we could
haze common interest. Good evening,
SIR" He turned as if to reenter the
room behind him. Holbin stood with
IN angry flush upon his face. He rec
| 6gnized instantly that a friendly serv-
ice from the doctor was now out of the
questions; but service under moral
pompulsion might yet be had.
Perhaps you are right" he said,
teeking to adopt the others freezing
dignity. "And yet you may be mistak-
cn-that is, over-hasty. And perhaps,
doctor, you do not realize that am not
asking personal favor at your hands"
lou will have to excuse me-" Again
The doctor placed his hand upon the
9onr-knob and prepared to depart.
| IL am then to underst and," said Hol-
hin. distinct sheer in his voice, "that
you Brooliin people prefer that affairs
touching the family honor shall be
passed upon by strangers. Ihave come
TO you, sir, with a serious matter, as in
duty bound. The reception met with
is such that for the future l shall rely
upon my own Judgment" With fine
show of heat he took up his hat and
cane, and with no pretense Of bow
was turning away when he felt the
Doctors hand laid not lightly upon his
shoulder. and his stern voice:
explain yourself. SIR"
"Unless | am much Mistaken" he
said, showing his white teeth slightly
"that has been the very thing you re.
fused me permission to do"
''Sit down." Holbin was not man
easily intimidated when conscious that