No thought of personal danger had molested my tranquillity.

I had made no preparation for defence.

What was it that suggested the design of perusing my father's manuscript?
If, instead of this, I had retired to bed, and to sleep, to what fate might I not have been reserved?
The ruffian, who must almost have suppressed his breathing to screen himself from discovery, would have noticed this signal, and I should have awakened only to perish with affright, and to abhor myself.

Could I have remained unconscious of my danger?
Could I have tranquilly slept in the midst of so deadly a snare?
And who was he that threatened to destroy me?
By what means could he hide himself in this closet?
Surely he is gifted with supernatural power.

Such is the enemy of whose attempts I was forewarned.