"Mr.Bloundel has retired to rest, but Mr.Holt is still downstairs.

Pray what may be your business with him at this hour?
It should be important." "It is important," rejoined Grant, "and does not admit of a moment's delay.

Tell him so." Eyeing the stranger with a look of suspicion, the porter was about to enter into a parley with him, when Leonard himself cut it short, and learning the nature of the application, desired Grant to follow him into the adjoining room.

The nine months which had passed over Leonard's head since he was last brought under notice, had wrought a material change in his appearance.

He had a grave and thoughtful air, somewhat inclining to melancholy, but in other respects he was greatly improved.