Jaspar, to distinguish him from his brother, Colonel Dumont.

"But which I intend to do at once, a little matter having detained me
longer than I supposed it would."

"I will save you the trouble. The business upon which my brother wished
to see you was concerning his will."

"Indeed, sir! I hope he is not dangerously ill," said Maxwell, in
apparent alarm.

"Not at all. The doctor says he will be out in a week; but he thinks
otherwise, and is now engaged in putting his house in order," replied
Jaspar, with a sickly smile.

"I am glad he is no worse, though it is better at all times to be
prepared for the final event."

"Perhaps it is," said Jaspar, coldly. "Here is a rough draught of the
will, which he wishes reduced to the usual form with all possible haste.
Will it take you long?"

"An hour or two."

"I will wait, then, as he requested me to bring you with me on my
return."

"It shall be done with all possible haste. There are cigars, and the
morning papers. Pray make yourself comfortable."