He believed nothing.

He was there simply to see what asses men could make of themselves; but he kept his ears open.

The wretched hotel at which he at last found accommodations was thronged with fortune-seekers, among whom he moved self-possessed and quite at home.

On the second day his mood began to tell on those around him.

There were men there who knew about him and his great wealth--men who had been impressed with his sagacity.
He studied them carefully, gave no one his confidence, and quietly laid his plans.