"That doesn't matter. If they believe it, they won't turn us away. Perhaps they will let you sleep in the house."
"Away from you?"
"Yes."
Tony was puzzled. It seemed as if Rudolph wanted him to be more comfortably provided for than himself, but the boy knew him too well not to suspect that there was some concealed motive for this apparent kindness.
"Well, what are you thinking about?" demanded Rudolph, suspiciously, as he observed the boy's earnest gaze.
"Why do you want me to sleep in the house?" he asked.
"I will tell you. When all the family are asleep, I want you to steal down stairs, open the back door, and let me in."
"What for?" asked the boy, startled.
"Never you mind. Do as I tell you!"