He snapped the triggers, and blew into the barrels to see that there were no old charges in them.

They were in excellent condition.

After which he laid them side by side on the table; then going to the door, looking out upon the stairs, he opened it softly to see if any one were watching.

Finding the corridor and stairs empty, he went to Sir John's door and knocked.
"Come in," said the Englishman.

Sir John, like himself, was not prepared for bed.
"I guessed from the sign you made me that you had something to say to me," said Sir John, "so I waited for you, as you see." "Indeed, I have something to say to you," returned Roland, seating himself gayly in an armchair.
"My kind host," replied the Englishman, "I am beginning to understand you.