Assuredly it gave the opportunity to commit a theft.

Something was stolen from the secretaire.

A bold rascal, to force a drawer whilst another man was in the room! Did he fear the consequences if he were caught?
I think not.

He succeeded in his object, and went off, but before he reached the gates he saw Miss Layton, whom he did not know, talking to the baronet.

He secreted himself until the baronet entered the park alone.
For some reason, he made his presence known, and walked with Sir Alan to the lawn outside the window, still retaining in his hand the small knife used to prise open the lock.