) Perhaps I had better begin from the beginning.
CRAWSHAW (interested, indicating the papers). The documents in the
case?
CLIFTON. Oh dear, no just something to carry in the hand. It makes
one look more like a solicitor. (Reading the title) "Watherston v.
Towser--in re Great Missenden Canal Company." My clerk invents the
titles; it keeps him busy. He is very fond of Towser; Towser is
always coming in. (Frankly) You see, Mr. Crawshaw, this is my first
real case, and I only got it because Antony Clifton is my uncle. My
efforts to introduce a little picturesqueness into the dull
formalities of the law do not meet with that response that one
would have expected.
CRAWSHAW (looking at his watch). Yes. Well, I'm a busy man, and if
you could tell me as shortly as possible why your uncle left this
money to me, and apparently to Mr. Meriton too, under these
extraordinary conditions, I shall be obliged to you.
CLIFTON. Say no more, Mr. Crawshaw; I look forward to being
entirely frank with you. It will be a pleasure.
CRAWSHAW. You understand, of course, my position. I think I may
say that I am not without reputation in the country; and proud as
I am to accept this sacred trust, this money which the late Mr.
Antony Clifton has seen fit--(modestly) one cannot say why--to
bequeath to me, yet the use of the name Wurzel-Flummery would be
excessively awkward.
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