Herbert had moved a little aside, that he might not be seen.
Soon he perceived, by the indistinct light, the face of the stranger rising above the window-sill. Next, the window was slowly raised, and he began to make preparations to enter the room. Then Herbert felt that it was time for him to appear.
Stepping intrepidly to the window, he said: “I know your purpose. Unless you go down instantly, I will shoot you.”
There was no tremor in his voice as he said this. Courage came with the occasion, and his tone was resolute, and self-possessed.
“So you're awake, are you, my chicken?” was the reply. “If you know what's best for yourself, you'll hand over the old man's money, and save me the trouble of getting in.”
“Never!” said Herbert, firmly.
“Then I will take it myself, and give you something to remember me by, you little fool!”
He placed his knee on the window-sill, and prepared to jump in.
“One step farther,” said Herbert, resolutely, “and I fire!”
He displayed the pistol, at the sight of which the burglar hesitated.