But my mind refused to think it out then. I went disconsolate to bed, and was mercifully surprised by sleep.
I slept heavily until the Arab came with my tea and opened the lowered shutters that closed my windows.
I awoke with my body refreshed and mind alert.
As though I had thought it out in the night, I saw that I must at once get control of that abominable stuff. Whatever happened it should not be released to poison the souls and bodies of men. I would be a passenger no longer, but must act now.
I hated and feared the timidity and indolence that I had made a sort of petted habit.
As soon as I was dressed I went downstairs and sent for Van Ermengen.
He came, smiling and urbane, and wished me good morning.
“Good morning. Those packing-cases of mine?”
“Yes?”
“I want them brought up to my bedroom.”