er age his mind had been
under Catholic influence, and therefore it was not strange that on
reaching manhood he should be a strong adherent of Romish doctrine.
And still further, his attitude was less to be wondered at, when
considered that the seeds of these same convictions were planted by no
other hand than the friend, tutor and spiritual adviser of his
youth--Henry Garnet. In truth, he had surpassed the zeal of many
associates, for being denied the full privilege of such worship as his
faith taught him, he had caused to be erected within the walls of his
country residence a small chapel, fitted up under supervision of the
Superior of the English Jesuits.

Somewhat early in the evening the little cavalcade rode into
Buckinghamshire, and having reached their destination, were received
with much cordiality by the young nobleman and his more austere
companions. The ride from London, on account of the inclemency of the
weather, had been most disagreeable, and the travelers were nothing
loth to stretch their chilled limbs before the great fire prepared in
readiness for their arrival, and to partake heartily of the well
ordered refreshments which their host had caused to be in waiting.
Having satisfied the carnal man, they were the more willing to turn to
the spiritual repast which had drawn them together; for in each mind
the conviction was strong that in plotting against the King they were
but serving the ends of God.

"Good gentlemen," said Garnet, the company having drawn about the fire
in a room somewhat remote from the more inhabited part of the
dwelling, "having partaken so freely of worthy Everard's hospitality,
it is most fitting that we turn for a season to that which has
summoned us from London. Methinks there be none absent?"

Catesby ran his eyes over the group about him, checking each off on
his fingers. "Winter, my Lord of Rookwood, good Percy, Wright, Francis
Tresham and Master Guido," said he, "these with Your Reverence, Sir
Everard and myself, make up the number--nine."

"'Tis well," exclaimed Garnet, fixing his eyes for an instant on the
face of each. "Certain things have arisen which render it most
expedient that we make common cause with each other--what think ye?"

"That the time is ripe for the maturing of such plans as best are
suited to our purpose," replied Rookwood; "James hath again declared
against us."

"'Tis even so," broke in Percy, "and at the house of Master Fawkes
when thou wert a