Bellamy said.

“Tell him the answer’s no,” I said.

Mr.

Bellamy reached for the thick manila envelope lying next to his legal pad.

The dark red wax seal on its back was still intact, stamped with the initials of Walter’s estate trust.

“This sealed statement holds Mr.

Ashford senior’s personal explanation to the court.

Once I give it to Judge Vance, there’s no taking it back.”