They waited till the streets, which were quite clear at that late hour, showed no one near, when they slipped inside, and closed the door behind them.
It was important that the two clerks sleeping upstairs should not be awakened; for they were not only likely to begin shooting, if they heard intruders below, but, of necessity, would learn of the project which the detective and the merchant had in mind.
Every foot was familiar to Mr.Warmore, who reached the large main room of his establishment without mishap.

Lathewood did the same, by keeping close to him, and feeling each inch of the way.
Here there was a light burning; and they had to be extremely careful, since their movements could be seen by any one passing the front.

The opportunities, however, for concealment were so good that they readily secured a place where they could sit down behind the far end of the counter, and remain unobserved in comfort.

This was done, and the trying wait began.
The detective was so accustomed to that sort of thing, that he remained cool and collected.

He would have liked to smoke a cigar to help while away the time, but was too wise to attempt anything of the kind.