The chance was worth the trial, and there could be no better time for such an experiment than while the three officers were at breakfast.

Whatever servants remained about the house would be busily employed also, and probably I should have the entire upper portion to myself.

Deciding to make the venture I had my hand on the knob of the door, when it was opened quietly from without, and I was startled by the sudden appearance of Peter.

Whatever excitement may have prevailed among the other members of this peculiar household this model servitor remained with dignity unruffled.

He surveyed me calmly, rubbing his bald head with one hand.
"You will pardon the delay, sir," he said calmly.