Eleven, and the more stately tread of the landlady passed my door, bound for the same destination.

It was close upon twelve before I heard the sharp sound of his latch-key.

The instant he entered I saw by his face that he had not been successful.

Amusement and chagrin seemed to be struggling for the mastery, until the former suddenly carried the day, and he burst into a hearty laugh.
"I wouldn't have the Scotland Yarders know it for the world," he cried, dropping into his chair; "I have chaffed them so much that they would never have let me hear the end of it.

I can afford to laugh, because I know that I will be even with them in the long run." "What is it then ?" I asked.
"Oh, I don't mind telling a story against myself.