I have reason to believe that there is a plot against the cardinal, and I am much concerned in defeating it." When the four Scotch soldiers had retired, Hector said to Paolo: "Now, Paolo, I place more reliance upon your finding out anything that is afloat than upon the soldiers.

It is not likely that any plans Beaufort may form will be communicated to his people until the moment for action, and indeed it is probable that he will rely solely upon his personal friends.

Now I want you to disguise yourself in any way you may think best, and watch Beaufort's hotel; see who comes in and out, and if a messenger goes out follow him, see the houses he calls at, and mark if those who dwell there repair at once to the Hotel de Vendome.

If you perceive that this is the case let me know at once.

See if you can get hold of half a dozen street gamins, and employ them to watch the houses of all these gentlemen, and especially that of Monsieur Id, captain of Beaufort's guards, and of the two Messieurs de Campion and the Count de Beaupuis, who are, I know, among the duke's most intimate friends.