The detective opened the doors, and found that the cabinet had three large shelves, which ran from side to side.
“We must remove these,” he said, turning towards the landlady; “then there will be room enough.”
“For what?”
“For me to take up my position for the night. I shall want a small stool to sit upon, and a few holes bored at the top for the admission of air.”
“Take up your position there, Mr. Wrench!—what for?”
“To watch and wait patiently till my gentleman arrives,” returned the detective, with the utmost composure.
The widow was astonished.
“But you’ll be stifled,” cried she.
“I hope not,” he observed, with a laugh; “as in that case my man will have it all his own way. Now, you must not, upon any consideration, say a word to anyone about my plan of action; secrecy, in matters of this sort, is the very first consideration. The shelves must be removed, and holes bored at the top. This will have to be done by a man in our employ.”
The widow nodded.