Early chapters show how Claudia and Jamie settle in at the Met : hiding in the bathroom at closing time from staff on circuit to see that all the patrons have departed ; blending with school groups on tour , to learn more about the museum exhibits ; bathing in the fountain , whose `` wishing coins '' provide income ; sleeping in an antique bed .
Much of the first part of the novel details how Claudia and Jamie settle in at the museum : blending in with school groups on field trips during the day to get a free presentation , hiding in the restroom at closing time to stay there , and emerging at night to bathe in the fountain and sleep on antique beds .