Nick went out, a few moments afterward, but did not descend to the first floor.
On the contrary, he made his way along the hall to Room 13.
There was no one else in the passage, and he paused at the door and listened intently.
All was quiet inside.
Stooping, he peered through the keyhole.
The key was not in the lock, on the inside, so it seemed fairly certain that Mr. Martin was out.
With a final swift glance up and down the passage, Nick drew a skeleton key from his pocket and quickly opened the door.
To step inside and softly reclose the door was the work of only a moment.
The room was exactly like the usual hotel chamber.
There were two doors opening to right and left, so that, if desired, the apartment could be used en suite with others adjoining.