No sooner was she back in the dining-room than the tapping at the pane was resumed.

This time it was louder.

The widow, who was quite timid and nervous, felt frightened.

She had years before believed in spirits, and she had not altogether gotten over this.
Once more she went to the door, the boys observing her from their hiding-place.

They were so delighted with their prank, which they thought a fine "joke," that they laughed heartily, having to hold their hands over their mouths so as not to betray themselves.
"She don't know what it is," whispered Ted.
"Maybe she thinks it's night-hawks pecking at the window," suggested Bob.
"Go ahead.