We have got into the way of sleeping heavily at Dort, without any night guard or disturbance.

I doubt not that these Dutchmen mean us no harm.

Still it is well to be on the safe side." "There is no fastening to it, Master Rupert." "Well, take your sword out of its scabbard, Hugh, and put the scabbard against the door, so that it will fall with a crash if the door is opened.

Then, if we have a pistol close to hand, we can sleep in security." Hugh obeyed his instructions; and in a few minutes, wrapped in their military cloaks, they were fast asleep on the lockers, which served as benches and beds.

How long they slept they knew not; but both started up into a sitting attitude, with their hands on their pistols.
"Who's there ?" both shouted; but there was no answer.
The darkness was intense; and it was clear that whoever had tried to open the door had shut it again.
"Have you your tinderbox handy, Hugh?
If so, let us have a light.
"Those fellows are moving about overhead, Hugh; but we had better stay where we are.