It was neither shot, nor stab, that had caused this sudden change in my attitude; but simply the opening of the door, against which I had been supporting myself.
Some one inside had drawn the bolt, and, by doing so, removed the support from behind me!
Chapter Ten.
The Street of the Sparrows.
As I tottered upon my back, I felt my head and shoulders in contact with the legs of a man. They broke the fall, that might otherwise have stunned me: for the floor was of stone flags.
I lost no time in disentangling myself; but, before I could regain my feet, the man bounded over my body, and stood upon the threshold.
As he passed between me and the light outside, I could see something shining by his side. It was a sword blade. I could see that the hilt was in his hand.
My first impression was that he had sprung into the doorway to intercept my retreat. Of course I classed him among my enemies. How could I expect to find friend, or protector, in such a place?