He then heard the murmur of voices in the street. Jumping up, his
feet struck a cold tiled floor which sent a chill over him. Peering
through the curtain, he discovered a crowd of people looking up at his
room and a buzz of voices was heard all about the house. Not remembering
where he was, he pulled a bell cord and the summons was answered by the
landlady, who greeted him kindly and hoped he felt better. She also
informed him that two gentlemen were below who wished to see him.
"Let no one up but a doctor," answered Paul; but in a few moments three
men were ushered in. Boyton was unreasonably suspicious and testily
told the men that he only wanted a doctor. One of the gentlemen
explained in French that he was the mayor of Meletti; that one
of his companions was a doctor and they had come to take care of and
entertain him. Such gracious answers to rough and suspicious questions,
disarmed Paul and they were soon on friendly terms. The mayor informed
him that a carriage was at the door to convey him to his own house,
where better care could be had. It was explained that the patient had
nothing to wear except his underclothing, and the mayor immediately
procured him a suit of clothes and escorted him through a gaping crowd
to the carriage, nor would he permit Paul to settle the hotel bill.
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