What does papa do when the soldiers asks about Ellen and why her hair is dark?

When the soldiers question Papa about Ellen and her dark hair, he quickly fabricates a story, claiming that she is his daughter and that her dark hair is inherited from her mother. He knows that any truth about Ellen being Jewish could put them in danger. Papa's quick thinking is a protective measure to keep Ellen safe from the soldiers' suspicions. His actions highlight the tension and fear of the time, as well as the lengths to which he will go to protect her.