With a clear insight, that here impended a battle, he landed, furled the sail and went up to his chamber.
Through the open window he heard the people singing a hymn.
He would have liked now to sit down to his work, but the thought that maybe he would soon be interrupted, hindered him from beginning it.
A painful half hour passed during which he learned more plainly than ever before, that he did not own himself longer, did not rule over two square meters, on which he could lock himself up to avoid the touch of souls, which like barnacles on the whale's hide fastened themselves there to finally by their mass impede his motion.
The door opened now after a short knock, and Miss Mary stood before him, with a new expression in her face, resembling pained reproach and superior compassion.
She came besides with the feeling of being backed by the universal opinion of the people, and therefore felt strong against this solitary man.
He let her speak first so as to have a point to start from.
"Where have you been?" commenced she with an attempt not to sound too arrogant.
"I have been out for a sail!"
"Without inviting me?"