It was Nick's special game, and consequently he should be the one to do the honors of the occasion.
After a little grumbling beyond the open window, Thad and Hugh heard the soft pad of shoes scraping against the boards.

Nick had started to enter.

The yawning aperture, and the apparent lack of any signs of danger lured him on.

Ah! if he had only dimly suspected what a wonderful reception awaited him in that same rabbit hutch, undoubtedly Nick could not have been tempted to take that important step; indeed, he would have turned and run for it with all speed.
But "when ignorance is bliss, 'tis folly to be wise," the old saying runs; and Nick was happy in not having a glimmer of the truth.
He should not be long in making his entrance.

The window was only five feet from the ground, and within easy reach.