So I determined to write only formal notes now, but to write fully to Mr.
Hawkins in secret, and also to Mina, for to her I could write shorthand, which would puzzle the Count, if he did see it.

When I had written my two letters I sat quiet, reading a book whilst the Count wrote several notes, referring as he wrote them to some books on his table.

Then he took up my two and placed them with his own, and put by his writing materials, after which, the instant the door had closed behind him, I leaned over and looked at the letters, which were face down on the table.

I felt no compunction in doing so for under the circumstances I felt that I should protect myself in every way I could.
One of the letters was directed to Samuel F.Billington, No.7, The Crescent, Whitby, another to Herr Leutner, Varna.

The third was to Coutts & Co., London, and the fourth to Herren Klopstock & Billreuth, bankers, Buda Pesth.