"Seems so," said Gilbert, grimly.
"Well, as your disposition to attend to the interests of Gilbert Irvine is so strong, I will not require more of you than to attempt the entrance by night. I noticed when I left the house that one of the drawing-room windows was unfastened. You can get in that way, and pass through Mrs. Celia's chamber."
"I'm blessed if I'll try that style of putting my neck in a noose for you more than this once!" Gilbert burst forth.
"I don't ask it of you more than this once," replied Stevens.
"And suppose they have fastened the window since you were there, as is probably the case?"
"If you cannot get in, come back to me. We must find out whether they have discovered the hiding-place. But I will take the next chance myself; and, Gilbert, it shall be in broad daylight."
Gilbert stared at him, and shook his head with an incredulous laugh.
"You are a poor conspirator, Gilbert," lamented Stevens. "Can you plaster a wall?"
"No," said Gilbert.
"I can. Can you mend a harpsichord?"