And he laid on the table two books bound in black morocco.
"What!" cried the amazed captain, "'The Imitation of Jesus Christ' and 'Montaigne'!"
"Yes. 'The Imitation of Jesus Christ' and 'Montaigne,' the most complete and sincere books ever written, for they tell the story of doubt and belief. They tell the rival story of all the philosophers who have existed since the creation of the world. With these two books and the magnificent spectacle of Nature around me have I not a whole library?"
"I cannot make you out. You overwhelm me," said the captain; "but I have not the courage to contradict you. You are too much for me. Go forth, seek the unknown, for alone that will comprehend you. You are one of those whom adversity purifies and renders great; you will often feel inclined to fall by the way in the gigantic combat you are about to undertake against the world. But fail is not a word in your dictionary. Even death, when it comes, will not conquer you."
"All the more that death is but a transformation, a purification of brutal matter by Divine agency. But," he remarked with a smile, "I think we are talking about very serious matters very foreign to our subject. Let us return to business, for the hour of our departure is rapidly approaching."
At this moment the tramp of horses was heard, and the captain again ran to the window.
"Hilloa!" cried the young man; "Another of your mysterious walks! Do explain yourself."
"All right," he replied, reseating himself, "there is no reason for circumlocution between friends. The truth must be told. I had hoped to lend you money, and I know that had you have required it, you would have borrowed it."
"Certainly, without hesitation, my friend."
"Of course, as I find you are very much better off than myself, I withdraw the proposition; but I had already provided your outfit."