He slid downstairs and gained the back parlour, or library, as it was usually termed by the household.
Once more he ignited his wax taper, and breathed more freely.
To his infinite delight one of the keys fitted the lock, which was turned back; then the massive doors of the safe were thrown open.
Peace looked curiously at its contents. One shelf contained a mass of documents, some books, and other articles which were of no value to the burglar.
But on one of the other shelves there was a cash-box and two canvas bags.
“All right,” murmured Peace; “this is worth fighting for. My word, but it is lucky I thought of the keys being in the house.”
The bags were at once placed in the one he had brought with him, the cash-box was opened with a small key he had found on the bunch abstracted from the gentleman’s pocket.
Between fifty and sixty sovereigns were in the cash-box, together with a roll of notes. It is needless to observe that these found their way into Peace’s pocket.
A gold cup, a silver salver, and a box containing jewels were also in the safe. These were placed in the burglar’s bag to keep company with the other valuables.
Peace had been fortunate enough to have a good haul, and, having been so far successful, he thought it best to get clear off with his booty while the coast was clear.