This I was able to ascertain only by experiment.

If it were so, yet the key was probably in the lock, and might be used without much noise.
I waited till their slow and hoarser inspirations showed them to be both asleep.

Just then, on changing my position, my head struck against some things which depended from the ceiling of the closet.

They were implements of some kind which rattled against each other in consequence of this unlucky blow.

I was fearful lest this noise should alarm, as the closet was little distant from the bed.