Now the game itself was at issue.
Property, reputation, and the family's future were at stake. When
the three had lived in the tiny house by the church, it had seemed
that no adversity could touch them. But now that long use had
accustomed them to larger quarters, servants, luxuries, Orde could
not conceive the possibility of Carroll's ever returning to that
simplest existence. Carroll could have told him otherwise; but of
course he did not as yet bring the possibility before her. She had
economised closely, these last few years. Orde was proud of her.
He was also fiercely resentful that his own foolishness, or untoward
circumstances, or a combination of both should jeopardise her
future. Therefore he awaited further news with the greatest
impatience.
The message came the following day, as Taylor had predicted. Taylor
handed it to him without comment.
"Land Office under investigation," Orde read. "Fraudulent entries
suspected. All titles clouded until decision is reached."
"What do you suppose that means?" asked Orde, although he knew well
enough.
Taylor glanced up at his dull eyes with commiseration.
"They simply won't lend good money on an uncertainty," said he.
"Frank," said Orde, rousing himself with an effort, "I've got to be
here.
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