He wished to conceal, among other things, his presence at Rutland.

He had two reasons for so desiring.

First in point of time was the urgent purpose with which he had come to Derbyshire.

That purpose was to further a plan for the rescue of Mary Stuart and to bring her incognito to Rutland Castle as a refuge until Elizabeth could be persuaded to receive her.

Of this plan I knew nothing till after the disastrous attempt to carry it out, of which I shall hereafter tell you.