Final Answer:
George mentioned a commotion outside to divert the scar-faced man's attention from taking his key.
Step-by-step explanation
George, in a quick and calculated move, created a diversion by mentioning a commotion occurring outside the area where the scar-faced man was about to take his key. This tactic aimed to shift the man's focus away from the key, using the ruse of a potential disturbance to distract him momentarily.
By drawing attention to something external and attention-grabbing, George bought himself a crucial moment to prevent the man from taking the key unnoticed.
This tactic of distraction often relies on the element of surprise or urgency, exploiting the human tendency to be intrigued or concerned about unexpected events.
George's choice to use an external disturbance as a distraction was strategic, capitalizing on the scar-faced man's curiosity or concern about the commotion, allowing George to safeguard his key without confrontation.