Roger had been spending a long quiet evening at home.

He had asked John to dine with him and they had chatted for a time.

Then John had started up to his room.

And listening to the slow shuffling step of the cripple going upstairs, Roger had thought of the quick eager feet and the sudden scampers that would be heard as the silent old house renewed its life.

Later he had gone to bed.
He awakened with a start.