The infortune is threatened by the malignant and adverse aspect, through means of a youth, and, as I think, a rival; but whether in love or in prince's favour, I know not nor can I give further indication respecting him, save that he comes from the western quarter." "The western--ha!" replied Leicester, "it is enough--the tempest does indeed brew in that quarter! Cornwall and Devon--Raleigh and Tressilian--one of them is indicated-I must beware of both.

Father, if I have done thy skill injustice, I will make thee a lordly recompense." He took a purse of gold from the strong casket which stood before him.
"Have thou double the recompense which Varney promised.

Be faithful--be secret--obey the directions thou shalt receive from my master of the horse, and grudge not a little seclusion or restraint in my cause--it shall be richly considered .-- Here, Varney--conduct this venerable man to thine own lodging; tend him heedfully in all things, but see that he holds communication with no one." Varney bowed, and the astrologer kissed the Earl's hand in token of adieu, and followed the master of the horse to another apartment, in which were placed wine and refreshments for his use.
The astrologer sat down to his repast, while Varney shut two doors with great precaution, examined the tapestry, lest any listener lurked behind it, and then sitting down opposite to the sage, began to question him.
"Saw you my signal from the court beneath ?" "I did," said Alasco, for by such name he was at present called, "and shaped the horoscope accordingly." "And it passed upon the patron without challenge ?" continued Varney.
"Not without challenge," replied the old man, "but it did pass; and I added, as before agreed, danger from a discovered secret, and a western youth." "My lord's fear will stand sponsor to the one, and his conscience to the other, of these prognostications," replied Varney.

"Sure never man chose to run such a race as his, yet continued to retain those silly scruples! I am fain to cheat him to his own profit.

But touching your matters, sage interpreter of the stars, I can tell you more of your own fortune than plan or figure can show.