"I hope I may not be called on to do so. I hope there may be no swearing about it. But if I am asked the question I must swear it."
"Exactly. Now listen till you understand what it is I mean. That will, if it stands, gives all the power over the estate to John Vavasor. It renders you quite powerless as regards any help or assistance that you might be disposed to give to me. But, nevertheless, your interest under the will is greater than his,--or than that of any one else,--for your son would inherit if I have none. Do you understand?"
"Yes; I think so."

"I hope I may not be called on to do so. But if I am asked the question I must swear it."
"Exactly. Now listen till you understand what it is I mean. That will, if it stands, gives all the power over the estate to John Vavasor. It renders you quite powerless to give me any assistance. But, nevertheless, your interest under the will is greater than his, for your son would inherit if I have no son. Do you understand?"
"Yes; I think so."
