We will interview your master outside." The citizen of Malta appears perplexed.

John comes to the rescue.
"It will be all right; this gentleman is my companion, my interpreter.
It is necessary that he accompany me.

Enter, professor." His assurance carries the day; the man backs down and allows Philander a passage.
Their first point is gained.
The servant having closed and barred the door and asked them to follow, goes on ahead.

The professor takes advantage of the opportunity presented, and plucks John's sleeve, and as that worthy bends down, he whispers: "Have you noticed it ?" "What ?" asks the young doctor.
"His style of address, my boy; same words exactly that were used at the hotel by the man who brought you the news." "Jove! you are right, professor.

I imagine that must be the formal style in this country." Philander chuckles.
"You'll have to guess closer to the mark than that, my boy, when you want to strike the truth." "What can you mean, sir ?" "Bless you, it's the same man.