The whole trick flashed on Rudolf, and he sprang, flinging his long arms round Rupert.

But Rupert had the revolver in his hand.
In all likelihood the two neither heard nor heeded, though it seemed to me that the creaks and groans of the old stairs were loud enough to wake the dead.

For now Rosa had given the alarm, Bernenstein and I--or I and Bernenstein (for I was first, and, therefore, may put myself first)--had rushed up.

Hard behind us came Rischenheim, and hot on his heels a score of fellows, pushing and shouldering and trampling.

We in front had a fair start, and gained the stairs unimpeded; Rischenheim was caught up in the ruck and gulfed in the stormy, tossing group that struggled for first footing on the steps.