two until six
The frequent invasions of the house had effectually prevented any relaxation after dusk . We had redoubled our vigilance as to bolts and window-locks but , as Mr. Jamieson had suggested , we allowed the door at the east entry to remain as before , locked by the Yale lock only . To provide only one possible entrance for the invader , and to keep a constant guard in the dark at the foot of the circular staircase , seemed to be the only method . In the absence of the detective , Alex and Halsey arranged to change off , Halsey to be on duty from ten to two , and Alex from two until six . Each man was armed , and , as an additional precaution , the one off duty slept in a room near the head of the circular staircase and kept his door open , to be ready for emergency . These arrangements were carefully kept from the servants , who were only commencing to sleep at night , and who retired , one and all , with barred doors and lamps that burned full until morning . The house was quiet again Wednesday night .