I lay, as people are apt to lie under such circumstances, stiff and still for five minutes, listening with all my ears.

There came into my mind while thus occupied all that the authorities had said in reference to burglars; and when, after a lapse of five minutes, the voices again became audible, I knew exactly what was expected of me.
I looked at my watch.

Five o'clock.

I was certain it could not be the servants; besides, even through the floor I could tell the voices were male.

I glided from my couch, and pulled on my nether garments, and then warily set my door ajar.