Anthea and Jane and the Phoenix can whisper soft nothings to him while he gradually awakes.' This plan did not have the success it deserved, because the burglar, curiously enough, was much stronger, even in his sleep, than Robert and Cyril, and at the first touch of their hands he leapt up and shouted out something very loud indeed.
Instantly steps were heard outside.

Anthea threw her arms round the burglar and whispered-- 'It's us--the ones that gave you the cats.

We've come to save you, only don't let on we're here.

Can't we hide somewhere ?' Heavy boots sounded on the flagged passage outside, and a firm voice shouted-- 'Here--you--stop that row, will you ?' 'All right, governor,' replied the burglar, still with Anthea's arms round him; 'I was only a-talking in my sleep.

No offence.' It was an awful moment.