After waiting there for perhaps five minutes, the three gently stole across the floor of what had probably been a gallery. Peering cautiously over the broken balustrade of this they looked below them. Then they withdrew their heads suddenly. For four men were seated below about a fire which blazed brightly in the ancient hearth of the old dwelling. Who they were or what they were none could guess; but this was certain: they were disreputable-looking, and one had a face which was familiar, while in the case of a second his head and shoulders were hidden by a portion of the masonry.
"The fellow who chased us away once before," whispered Clive.
"I'm certain," agreed Hugh, jerking his head decisively.
"And—and, do you know, you fellows," said Bert, with great deliberation, "do you know that there have been a series of robberies round these parts lately?"
Hugh shook his head. Clive looked the question he wished to ask.
"Well, there have been," added Bert, "and I wouldn't wonder if those are the beggars."
"Burglars?"
"Yes," Bert answered curtly to Clive's question.
"Then—er don't you think——?" began Hugh. "Don't you think it'd be wise for us to——?"
"I don't," Bert responded abruptly. "I've got in here after a bit of a climb. I'll see this thing to a finish. If they're burglars, all the better. Let's get back to the balustrade and listen."