But in any case these were practised waits.
Their whine rushed in at my open window with a vigor that proved them no tyros.

Besides, the night was a cold one, and I could not linger at an open casement.

I nodded pleasantly to the waits and pointed to my door.
Then I ran downstairs and let them in.

They came up to my chambers with me.

As I have said, the lapse of time prevents my remembering how many of them there were; three, I fancy.