"I am a German," replied Helmar in the same language, "and am a stranger just come to the city from Cairo. I do not know what has happened here, but the town seems to be full of trouble. I must find somewhere to sleep."
The tones of his voice evidently calmed the stranger's fears, for he replied in much milder tones—
"Quite," replied Helmar.
"Very well then, wait a moment," and the head disappeared and he heard footsteps descending the stairs.
The next moment the door was cautiously opened, and the burly figure of a man stood in the dark uninviting passage.
"Quick, come in," he said in hurried tones, "there is trouble about, and we don't want more; this house is supposed to be deserted."
George stepped in quickly, and the door was closed behind him. The man bolted and barred it as though the place was in a state of siege.
"Step this way," he said, evidently relieved at having got him safely in and the door secured.
Helmar followed the man to the end of the passage, where, flinging open another door, his host ushered him into a well-lighted room.