And then suddenly checking himself, he added, with forced calmness, "And so you parted with Mr.Thirlby on London Bridge, and you think he will return to Doctor Hodges's residence in Watling-street." "I am sure of it," replied Leonard.
"I must see him without delay," rejoined Parravicin.
"I will take you to him," remarked Leonard; "but first I must see Nizza." Parravicin walked to a table, on which stood a small silver bell, and ringing it, the summons was immediately answered by an old woman.

He was about to deliver a message to her, when the disturbed expression of her countenance struck him, and he hastily inquired the cause of it.
"You must not see the young lady to-night, Sir Paul," said the old woman.
"Why not ?" demanded the knight, hastily.

"Why not ?" "Because--but you frighten me so that I dare not speak," was the answer.
"I will frighten you still more if you keep me in this state of suspense," rejoined Parravicin, furiously.

"Is she ill ?" "I fear she has got the plague," returned the old woman.

"Now you can see her if you think proper." "_I_ will see her," said Leonard.