Originally Posted by jabez

I think that's not exactly the way I see it.


To me "notice"= "easy view" and leaning "way over the counter" sounds like access to rooms were too easily accesible"
Imagine what that might have looked like to a thief . Just help yourself to some keys, possibly leaving the duplicate card in the envelope. Then later help yourself into some rooms.
Even worse, imagine the security a female traveler would feel ,if she thought someone could already be in the room when she arrives.
If there is a chance that a desk might not be manned,especially for any period of time, activated key cards should not be left a "lean over the counter" away.