"And don't overlook the muffineers, the terrapin dishes and the candlesticks. We should be very much obliged—very grateful if you could find room for them."
Often since I have thought of that burglar and what must have been his sensations. At the time I was too engrossed with my own feelings. Never have I enjoyed a situation more. It is true I noticed as I proceeded our burglar began to edge away towards the door, keeping the lantern steadily on my face.
"And one favor more," I added, "there are several flocks of individual silver almond dishes roosting downstairs—"
"Forty-two," said Clara, "twenty-four in the dining-room and eighteen in the parlor."
"Forty-two is the number; as a last favor please find room for them; if you don't want them drop them in a river or bury them somewhere. We really would appreciate it. It's our last chance."
"All right," said the burglar in an altered tone. "Don't you worry now, we'll attend to that."
"Remember there are forty-two—if you would count them."
"That's all right—just you rest easy," said the burglar soothingly. "I'll see they all get in."
"Really, if I could be of any assistance downstairs," I said anxiously, "I might really help."
"Oh, don't you worry, Bub, my pals are real careful muts," said the burglar nervously. "Now just keep calm. We'll get 'em all."