This, too, gave forth a dismal hollow groan as it was drawn inward upon its concealed rusty hinges, and then, as Fred raised the light to see what was inside, he exclaimed—
“Why, it isn’t a cupboard. Here’s another flight of steps!”
Scarlett pressed forward and stood beside him, peering beneath the candle, and looking down the dusty stone stairs into utter darkness beyond the faint light shed by the candle.
Then he turned to Fred as he grasped his arm and looked inquiringly into his face.
“I will if you will,” said Fred, as if his companion had asked him a question.
“Come along, then,” cried Scarlett, excitedly. “Only let’s keep together.”
“Of course. Shall I go first?”
“No, I’ll go,” said Scarlett, after a momentary hesitation.
He snatched the candle from his friend’s hand, and took a step forward on to the little square landing.
“Mind the door doesn’t blow to. Push it wide open.”