The Dugdale Millions — page 183: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

Loe DUGDALE HEIR, + ay pe opportunity to study the face of the supposed heir, He was not favorably impressed with the man when under bright lights. Traces of dissipation were notice- able, but what affected Dick the most was the total absence of frankness or candor of look. But at all times, even when talking directly to a person, young Pierson evaded an open and direct look into that person’s face. When anyone, theretofore silent, spoke, he turned a quick, though guarded and stealthy look upon him. ‘The entrances of a servant al- ways caused a slight start of surprise, quickly re- pressed. In nothing else, after the closest inspection, could Dick find cause for criticism at the elegant table of Mr. Hetlow. But he was not satisfied. When dinner was over and the ladies had left the table, and a few glasses of wine were taken, Mr. Het- low rose, saying that the coffee would be served in the library. Thither went the gentlemen. When the doors were closed, Mr. Hetlow proceeded to the event of the night. “ Mr. Pierson,” he began, “doubtless you were not a little surprised that I should request you, with whom I had no acquaintance, and in fact no knowledge of until a day or two ago, to visit me.” “‘I confess to some surprise,” said his guest smil- ing, “yet I connected it with the call of Mr. Mason upon my father, that is to say, upon Mr. Pierson.” ‘You were quite right,’ continued Mr. Hetlow. “ The request was a consequence of Mr. Mason’s call upon Mr. Pierson. Under the supposition you were the person for whom I have been searching many days, I asked you to come to us that I might make a com- munication to you, which, if you are in fact the per- son and can establish your identity, it is your right to Teceive, © Mr. Hetlow paused to observe the effect of his re- marks upon his guest and found him listening with tn- terest and respect. Proceeding with the story of the Comicbooclk C@ 3