It was therefore impossible for you to attend to the
multifarious details which it has been my care, my privilege, to
sift and examine. For it is a privilege we should value highly to
labour for those we love, for those with whom we share our dearest
affections. I am now about to communicate to you an affair of the
highest importance, which, when brought to a successful
termination will exercise a tremendous influence over all your
life. Let me say beforehand, however, and lest you should suspect
me of any unworthy motives, that I expect no thanks, nor any share
in the immense triumph in store for you. Do not be surprised if I
use somewhat strong language on such an occasion. I have examined
everything, preserved everything, taken the best legal advice, and
consulted those without whose spiritual counsel I enter upon no
weighty undertaking. My dear son, you, and none other, are the
real and rightful Prince Saracinesca."
The climax to the long preamble was so unexpected that San
Giacinto uttered a loud exclamation of surprise.
"Do not be amazed at what I have told you," said Montevarchi. "The
documents upon which the claims of the Saracinesca rest were drawn
up by a wise man. Although he had not at that time any intention
of marrying, he was aware that with heaven all things are
possible, and introduced a clause to the effect that if he should
marry and leave heirs direct of his body, the whole deed was to be
null, void and ineffectual.
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