Hugh did not intend that this prank should end in a tragedy, if he could help it.
When everything had been arranged to suit Hugh, the boys retired within the rabbit hutch, and the door was fastened with the padlock, which Hugh could undo when the time came by leaning far out of the open window.
They took up their positions in the place already selected, and wrapped in complete darkness awaited coming events.

The time passed very slowly, but since they had dressed warmly, they did not suffer from the chilly air, for it was only April, and the warmth of summer still far distant.
Nine o'clock struck.

Bless that town clock, by means of which they could tell the hour; for Thad was beginning to believe it much later than it really was.

He yawned, and stretched a bit, shifting his position.

Then Hugh touched him on the arm, and his low whisper came in Thad's very ear.
"Sh! something stirring outside!" Thad had heard it, too.