Armitage had dropped down the ladder half a dozen rounds as he heard the latch snap in the door.

He waited an instant to make sure he had not been seen, then crept back to the balcony and found that the slight opening in the door made it possible for him to see as well as hear.
"It's stifling in this hole," said Chauvenet, drawing deeply upon his cigarette and blowing a cloud of smoke.

"If you will pardon the informality, I will lay aside my coat." He carefully hung the garment upon the back of his chair to hold its shape, then resumed his seat.

His companion watched him meanwhile with a certain intentness.
"You take excellent care of your clothes, my dear Jules.

I never have been able to fold a coat without ruining it." The rain was soaking Armitage thoroughly, but its persistent beat covered any slight noises made by his own movements, and he was now intent upon the little room and its occupants.