Martians understand doors

Every now and then I paused, rigid, to hear if the Martian had thrust its tentacles through the opening again.

   Then the faint metallic jingle returned. I traced it slowly feeling over the kitchen. Presently I heard it nearer--in the scullery, as I judged. I thought that its length might be in- sufficient to reach me. I prayed copiously. It passed, scrap- ing faintly across the cellar door. An age of almost intolerable suspense intervened; then I heard it fumbling at the latch! It had found the door! The Martians understood doors!

   It worried at the catch for a minute, perhaps, and then the door opened.

Chapter 21