It was simply because Mr. Helstone willed it so, and Mr. Helstone's will was stronger than that of Boultby or Hall; the former _could_ not, the latter _would_ not, dispute a point of precedence with their resolute and imperious brother. 
 but simply because Mr. Helstone willed it, and Mr. Helstone's will was stronger than that of Boultby or Hall. 