Deucalion, surprised at his insistency, demurred, “Rash youth, rash prince, thy life is of too much worth.”
Sensel smiled as he answered, “Is not thy life of worth?”
“We shall have evil work.”
“It looketh it.” Then Sensel waved his hand gaily to the astounded Hellen, who was looking over at them; and who could only gasp, “Father!”
“It is well. Be not troubled, my son. Think of thy mother. What aileth Electra?”
“Æole sleepeth as she did in the temple.”
“Again is it well. Should I know I could not come out of this, I would cause her to awake. But, let her sleep for three days, should I not come back. Then, the written word I left for thee in my case will show thee how to arouse her. Further, my son, press on with speed. Show thy fond feeling for me in this. And forget not, my last word is for thy mother.”
Hellen could not reply; but merely waved his hand in farewell. As the boat shot off, he turned away without hope.
But the galleys were awaiting his lead. Thus he imparted the directions of his father to their occupants who were regarding the returning boat in dismay.
Then quickly certain whispers spread. Was the ‘Silent Priest’ an evil spirit? And, was he going back to gloat over the condition of their island? Or, was he indeed of the gods, and going to aid? Nobles, elders, captains, sailors, women and children were divided, some judging him to be on the side of evil, others on the side of good. But the majority inclined to the evil. However, his directions must be followed, as whether good or evil, he had shown proper knowledge of the fitness of the fifth island as a stopping place. And much they needed the water.