I waited and waited for him to come back but nothing happened, and knowing that I would have plenty of time if he came back again, I had a look at the pistol I had.

It was an automatic and it was loaded.

I had never worked with a gun in my life, but I thought I might as well take this as I intended committing a crime which might land me in jug for the term of my natural life.

I thought I might as well be hung as go to penal servitude.
"Then I put out the lights and sat down by the window, waiting for Miss Rider's return.

I lit a cigarette, and opened the window to let out the smell of the smoke.