He then opened the door softly, locked it behind him, and passed noiselessly into the hall.

Susy's and Mrs.McClosky's rooms were at the further end of the passage, but between them and the boudoir was the open patio, and the low murmur of the voices of servants, who still lingered until he should dismiss them for the night.

Turning back, he moved silently down the passage, until he reached the narrow arched door to the garden.
This he unlocked and opened with the same stealthy caution.

The rain had recommenced.

Not daring to risk a return to his room, he took from a peg in the recess an old waterproof cloak and "sou'wester" of Peyton's, which still hung there, and passed out into the night, locking the door behind him.