Slipping out on to the landing, she leaned upon the banisters in the darkness and looked down.

Even as she did so, a voice she knew well came up out of the gloom--a kindly, well-bred voice that spoke with a slight drawl.
"I shouldn't be downhearted, Ironside.

Remember, no one is cornered so long as he can turn round and go back.

It's the only thing to do when you know you've taken a wrong turning." Doris caught her breath.

Her fingers gripped the black oak rail.