he judged favourable to a coup-de-main, should that become necessary.

Lord Lansmere's house and grounds were surrounded by a wall, the entrance
being to the high-road, and by a porter's lodge. At the rear there lay
fields crossed by a lane or byroad. To these fields a small door in the
wall, which was used by the gardeners in passing to and from their work,
gave communication. This door was usually kept locked; but the lock was
of the rude and simple description common to such entrances, and easily
opened by a skeleton key. So far there was no obstacle which Peschiera's
experience in conspiracy and gallantry did not disdain as trivial. But
the count was not disposed to abrupt and violent means in the first
instance. He had a confidence in his personal gifts, in his address, in
his previous triumphs over the sex, which made him naturally desire to
hazard the effect of a personal interview; and on this he resolved with
his wonted audacity. Randal's description of Violante's personal
appearance, and such suggestions as to her character and the motives most
likely to influence her actions as that young lynx-eyed observer could
bestow, were all that the count required of present aid from his
accomplice.

Meanwhile we return to Violante herself. We see her now seated in the
gardens at Knightsbridge, side by side with Helen. The place was
retired, and out of sight from the windows of the house.

VIOLANTE.--"But why will you not tell me more of that early time? You
are less communicative even than Leonard."

HELEN (looking down, and hesitatingly).--"Indeed there is nothing to tell
you that you do not know; and it is so long since, and things are so
changed now."