The fact is that shortly after my interview with Antonius in his cavern by the sea, Bulger had commenced to show unmistakable signs of home-sickness. So I dispatched him with a note to the officer of my vessel to begin preparations at once for the return voyage.
Bulger made haste to execute the commission.
He proceeded to the foot of the marble staircase, and then by loud barking attracted the attention of the officer whom I had left in command.
He sent a boat ashore and Bulger met it with my letter in his mouth.
To tell the truth, I would have fain lingered for a week or so longer among the Slow Movers, but it was plain to be seen that they were growing restive at my presence.
On the cheeks of many of them all signs of ruddy peach-bloom had disappeared.
Day by day they grew more and more like their marble brethren.
My quick movements so wearied their eyes that after a few hours’ stay in their midst I found myself surrounded by a company of deep sleepers.
Nor dared I speak.
For no matter how I softened my voice, or how slowly I uttered my words, they jarred upon the delicate ears of the Slow Movers, and signs of suffering gradually passed over their faces.