The group of sophomores were no longer in sight, but at that moment he heard the front door close softly.

There was no time to lose.

He found a match and hurriedly lighted one burner over the study table.

Then, turning it down to a mere blue point of light, he flung himself back among the cushions on the window-seat, and with a heart that hammered violently at his ribs waited.
Almost in the next moment there were sounds of shuffling feet outside the study door, a low voice, and then a knock.

Neil took a long breath.
"Come in," he called drowsily.
The door opened.