The fourth time, he turned from the window more quickly, with a gesture of assenting decision.
The crackling snap of a match broke the dead stillness.

The sudden flare of light stabbed the darkness.

As he applied the tiny, wavering flame to the wick of a lamp that stood on the cheap, old-fashioned bureau, the man's hand shook until the chimney rattled against the wire standards of the burner.

Turning quickly from the lighted lamp, the man sprang again to the window to jerk down the tattered, old shade.

Facing about, he stood with his back to the wall, searching the room with wide, fearful eyes.