Elliot would take a step back, taking a moment to analylize the situation he had found himself in. And after a brief moment he'd say:
"my apologies sir, but i was in fact not in search for anything in particular. I was rather seeking to learn more about this city on my way through. Though if you had a moment to spare, may you enlighten me about this place?"
before briefly reajusting his rather short cloak.
I would take a moment to realized what was happening since i am not really used to people just casually walking up to me. Though after a moment i would respond by telling him that i was not in search of anything specific but rather wanted to enjoy the scenery. I'd also ask him for directions.