A quiet keen observer of men and things, not demonstrative nor talkative, nor much given to writing--a modest, calm, deeply-reflecting student of military and mathematical science--he was not at that moment deeply inspired by political ambition.

He was perhaps more desirous of raising the fallen fortunes of his house than of securing the independence of his country.

Even at that early age, however, his mind was not easy to read, and his character was somewhat of a puzzle to those who studied it.

"I see him much discontented with the States," said Leicester; "he hath a sullen deep wit.

The young gentleman is yet to be won only to her Majesty, I perceive, of his own inclination.