Leonard watched him with intense curiosity, and had great difficulty in controlling himself.

Though the earl was armed, while he had only his staff, he could have easily mastered him by assailing him unawares.

But Leonard's generous nature revolted at the unworthy suggestion, and he resolved, if he attacked him at all, to give him time to stand upon his guard.

A moment's reflection, however, satisfied him that his wisest course would be to remain concealed.

He was now in possession of the earl's plan, and, with the help of Doctor Hodges, could easily defeat it; whereas if he appeared, it would be evident that he had overheard what had passed, and some other scheme, to which he could not be privy, would be necessarily adopted.