For there was a small hall light toward the front, and it gave him an uncertain illumination, even at the rear of the passage.
Now that he was definitely committed to the adventure he wondered more and more what he could possibly gain by it.

But still he went on, and, in spite of the danger, it is doubtful if Ronicky would have willingly changed places with any man in the world at that moment.
At least there was not the slightest sense in remaining on the lower floor of the house.

He slipped down the shadow of the main stairs, swiftly circled through the danger of the light of the lower hall lamp and started his ascent.

Still the carpet muffled every sound which he made in climbing, and the solid construction of the house did not betray him with a single creaking noise.
He reached the first hall.

This, beyond doubt, was where he would find the room of the man who sneered--the archenemy, as Ronicky Doone was beginning to think of him.