At that moment Fate intervened in the shape of a breeze through my windows, the door banged shut, and a heavy man rushed by me in the darkness and ran down the stairs.

I knew he was heavy, because the passageway was narrow and he had to push me aside to get by.

I heard him swear beneath his breath.
Quickly I went to a hall window at the far end that looked out on the street.

But the front door did not open; no one came out.

I was puzzled for a second; then I reentered my room and hurried to my balcony.