David left to give Ali our breakfast order. Ramses mutely watched as I collected the cushions and replaced them in their proper locales. I went into the bath chamber to freshen up as best I could, careful to avoid the wet towels on the floor. I could not be certain that the doctor had not used my brush or comb on his patient’s head, so I edged them aside and ran my fingers through my hair. My shopping list was growing longer, I thought as I returned to the sitting room.

Ramses was gazing at the chair wedged under the doorknob. He turned to me, one eyebrow raised, and said, “Do you care to explain how Herr Morgenstern came to be in your bedroom, Mother?”

“I am disappointed in you. I was quite sure that you would reason it out for yourself, but I will be happy to elaborate after you have roused him and accompanied him to the bath chamber so that he can avail himself of the facilities. It is vital that he remains under our constant supervision until he comes to his senses.”

“Did you leave the hotel last night?” His tone was accusatory, as if he were a schoolmaster interrogating a mischievous pupil.

“For no more than a minute or two, and I was always within view of the doorman. He is not as reliable as Daoud, of course, but I presume he would not allow one of the guests to be molested in front of the hotel. Please see to Herr Morgenstern’s needs in the bath chamber. He will eat better if his food is hot, and it should arrive shortly. He will have to wear the thobe until his clothing is returned from the cleaners. I would like to think he would not venture out of the hotel dressed as he is, but he is fanatical about finding the statue of Nefertiti and is capable of bizarre actions.”