The check is a "pleasing reality."
The memories of Hortense Duval are dearer to Joe than to him. His
pen indites the results of that watchful espionage which covers
so many unread leaves of private life in San Francisco.
There is an innocent smile on Woods' face when he strolls into
his own office and asks Peyton to give him the evening in quiet.
Strongly attracted by the Virginian, Woods has now a double interest
in his new friend.
In the sanctum, Woods says, "Peyton, I am going to tell you a
story, but you must first show me the papers you have kept so long
of poor Valois."
Peyton rises without a word. He returns with a packet.
"Here you are, Woods. I have not examined them yet. Now, what is
it?"
"You told me Valois made a will before he died, Peyton," begins
Woods.
"He did, and wrote to Hardin. He wrote to the French priest at his
ranch."
Woods starts. "Ha, the damned scoundrel! Go on; go on." Joe knows
Pere Francois never got that letter. "I read those documents. His
letter of last wishes to Hardin. When I was in Havana, I found
Hardin never acknowledged the papers."
Woods sees it all. He listens as Peyton tells the story.
"We have to do with a villain," says Joe. "He destroyed the papers
or has hidden them.
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