so far as you're concerned, that ends it. If on the way, somewhere, I
determine suddenly on a change of destination, that is none of your
affair. If, say in a month or two, a quiet, inoffensive gentleman by
the name of Smith arrives in Hillerton on the legitimate and perfectly
respectable business of looking up a family pedigree, that also is
none of your concern." With a sudden laugh the lawyer fell back in his
chair.

"By Jove, Fulton, if I don't believe you'll pull this absurd thing
off!"

"There! Now you're talking like a sensible man, and we can get
somewhere. Of course I'll pull it off! Now here's my plan. In order
best to judge how my esteemed relatives conduct themselves under the
sudden accession of wealth, I must see them first without it, of
course. Hence, I plan to be in Hillerton some months before your
letter and the money arrive. I intend, indeed, to be on the
friendliest terms with every Blaisdell in Hillerton before that times
comes."

"But can you? Will they accept you without references or
introduction?"

"Oh, I shall have the best of references and introductions. Bob
Chalmers is the president of a bank there. Remember Bob? Well, I shall
take John Smith in and introduce him to Bob some day. After that,
Bob'll introduce John Smith? See? All I need is a letter as to my
integrity and respectability, I reckon, so my kinsmen won't suspect me
of designs on their spoons when I ask to board with them. You see, I'm
a quiet, retiring gentleman, and I don't like noisy hotels."