I was not to succeed in my enterprise too easily then.

That was clear.

Still I thought it better to act as if I had not seen my followers, and collecting myself, I walked as quickly as I could down to the steps.

The three were by that time close upon me--within striking distance almost.

I turned abruptly and confronted them.
"Who are you, and what do you want ?" I said, eyeing them warily, my hand on my sword.
They did not answer, but separated more widely so as to form a half-circle: and one of them whistled.