I've been spoiling for the chance
ever since I came down. There's not the smallest harm in it now;
and if you'll come with me I'll show you how it used to be done."
"But I know," said I. "Who used to haul up the rope after you,
and let it down again to the minute?"
Raffles looked down on me from lowered lids, over a smile too
humorous to offend.
"My dear good Bunny! And do you suppose that even then I had only
one way of doing a thing? I've had a spare loophole all. my life,
and when you're ready I'll show you what it was when I was here.
Take off those boots, and carry your tennis-shoes; slip on another
coat; put out your light; and I'll meet you on the landing in two
minutes."
He met me with uplifted finger, and not a syllable; and down-stairs
he led me, stocking soles close against the skirting, two feet to
each particular step. It must have seemed child's play to Raffles;
the old precautions were obviously assumed for my entertainment; but
I confess that to me it was all. refreshingly exciting - for once
without a risk of durance if we came to grief! With scarcely a
creak we reached the hall, and could have walked out of the street
door without danger or difficulty.
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