Within himself he was beginning to grow anxious, having developed the affection of a self-appointed protector towards Heyst.

The answer he got was: "Can't tell.

It's none of my business," accompanied by majestic oscillations of the hotel-keeper's head, hinting at some awful mystery.
Davidson was placidity itself.

It was his nature.

He did not betray his sentiments, which were not favourable to Schomberg.
"I am sure to find out at the Tesmans' office," he thought.