The consciousness that the door was fast, now that nothing but that was interposed between me and danger, was a source of some consolation.

I cast my eye towards the window.

This, likewise, was a new suggestion.

If the door should give way, it was my sudden resolution to throw myself from the window.
Its height from the ground, which was covered beneath by a brick pavement, would insure my destruction; but I thought not of that.
When opposite to my door the footsteps ceased.

Was he listening whether my fears were allayed, and my caution were asleep?
Did he hope to take me by surprize?
Yet, if so, why did he allow so many noisy signals to betray his approach?
Presently the steps were again heard to approach the door.