A few seconds sufficed to satisfy him, for he sprang to his feet again and put his glass in his pocket.
"We have at least an hour before us," he remarked, "for they can hardly take any steps until the good pawnbroker is safely in bed.
Then they will not lose a minute, for the sooner they do their work the longer time they will have for their escape.

We are at present, Doctor--as no doubt you have divined--in the cellar of the City branch of one of the principal London banks.

Mr.
Merryweather is the chairman of directors, and he will explain to you that there are reasons why the more daring criminals of London should take a considerable interest in this cellar at present." "It is our French gold," whispered the director.

"We have had several warnings that an attempt might be made upon it." "Your French gold ?" "Yes.

We had occasion some months ago to strengthen our resources and borrowed for that purpose 30,000 napoleons from the Bank of France.