I jumped on the hood of my car, slung my arms around the tree trunk and climbed until I was high enough to jump the wall. I landed softly on a patch of grass.

I was now located on the Schmeister-Hausen property about one hundred yards from a four-car garage at the back of the mansion. Flood lights illuminated the driveway nearby. My best approach to the house itself was along the side of the garage. A patio door was located there.

I walked slowly to the sidewalk leading from the garage to the patio. I tried to avoid the lights, hiding behind the enormous plants and trees lining the path. I could see the patio door just in front of me a few yards ahead. Crouched down behind a bush, I waited to see if the room beyond the patio door was vacant. It was dark, no lights. It appeared empty. This was my chance. I had to hurry. Crossing the patio was going to expose me in the light and I’m sure the video cameras were going to provide the security guard a nice view of my entrance. But I had to try it.

“Stop!”