"You are like your kind self again." They ascended the steps which led to the door.

Linley took the key from his pocket.

It acted perfectly in drawing back the lock; but the door, when he pushed it, resisted him.

He put his shoulder against it, and exerted his strength, helped by his weight.

The door remained immovable.
Had one of the servants--sitting up later than usual after the party, and not aware that Mr.Linley had gone into the garden--noticed the door, and carefully fastened the bolts on the inner side?
That was exactly what had happened.
There was nothing for it but to submit to circumstances.