en_tn_condensed/act/21/40.md

the captain had given him permission

The word "permission" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "the captain permitted Paul to speak" or "the captain allowed Paul to speak" (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)

Paul stood on the steps

The word "steps" here refers to the steps on the stairway to the fortress.

motioned with the hand to the people

It can be stated explicitly why Paul motioned with the hand. Alternate translation: "motioned with his hand for the people to be quiet" (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)

When there was a deep silence

"When the people were completely silent"