i just had to add this:  the next morning i was going in to breakfast in the albergue and there he was!  i know you know who i am talking about.  i went right over to him and thanked him, and he kept sayng it was nothing.  my friend yin soor was there and i asked her how to say you are my hero in german (i know, she is korean but lives in germany and is completely fluent.  kind of strange sight to see, actually).  she told me and i told him that and he turned 7 shades of red, but i think he understands how much his carrying my backpack meant to me.   finally, i asked his name.  his name is Manfred.  i will never forget him.  and, i´d bunk with him again anytime
peace and blessings-
a