The pattering of feet ceased.
The market-place across the square resumed its hum and activity.

Then a native orderly came down the steps and touched me on the elbow.

I struggled to my feet and limped after him up the steps.
Practically at the mercy of the doctor, I made up my mind to be civil to him whether that suited me or not.

I rather expected he would come to meet me, perhaps help me to chair, and I wondered how, in my ignorance of German, I should contrive to answer his questions.
But I need not have worried.

I did not even see him.