I opened it and a man slipped in quickly and covertly.

To my amazement, I saw Carford.

He had kept much out of sight lately; I supposed that he had discovered all he wanted from Monmouth's ready confidence, and had carried his ill-won gains to his paymaster.

But supposing that he would keep up the comedy I said stiffly, "You come to me from the Duke of Monmouth, my lord ?" He was in no mood for pretence to-night.

He was in a state of great excitement, and, brushing aside all reserve, made at once for the point.
"I am come," said he, "to speak a word with you.