He had bound and wounded Edwards, the keeper of the jewel-office, and had gotten out of the Tower with his prey; but was overtaken and seized, with some of his associates.

One of them was known to have been concerned in the attempt upon Ormond; and Blood was immediately concluded to be the ring-leader.

When questioned, he frankly avowed the enterprise; but refused to tell his accomplices.

"The fear of death," he said, "should never engage him either to deny a guilt or betray a friend." All these extraordinary circumstances made him the general subject of conversation; and the king was moved by an idle curiosity to see and speak with a person so noted for his courage and his crimes.

Blood might now esteem himself secure of pardon; and he wanted not address to improve the opportunity.