He passed up the gallery very softly, unclosed the staircase door with as little noise as possible, shut it after him, and the last ray vanished.

I was left in total darkness.

I listened for some noise, but heard nothing.

A very long time elapsed.

I grew weary: it was cold, in spite of the cloak; and then I did not see the use of staying, as I was not to rouse the house.