The house remained silent and dark.

It confirmed John's first belief that the horse belonged to some peasant who had fled with his family from the armies.

He stroked the animal's neck, and felt real pity for him, as if he had been a child abandoned.
"I know that while I'm a friend I'm almost a stranger to you, but come, we'll examine things," he said.
He sprang off the horse, and drew his automatic.

The possession of the pistol gave him an immense amount of courage and confidence, but he did not anticipate any trouble at the house as he was sure that it was abandoned.
He pushed open the door and saw a dark inside.

Staring a little he made out a plainly furnished room, from which all the lighter articles had been taken.