On arriving at his destination, he took note of the peculiarities of the place. There was a long stretch of sandy beach, with rocks scattered about and rising from the water. A few yards back the rocks rose abruptly in high crags, forming bluffs majestic and inaccessible in appearance. He was not long in discovering the entrance to the cavern, and, approaching it, he stood for some moments regarding the dark opening in apparent curiosity and surprise. His movements were deliberate, like those of one seeking novel sights and new pleasures, and would not have betrayed, even to a close observer, the intense interest he felt in the place.
In the door of a dilapidated cottage, situated by the side of an immense pile of rocks, stood the deaf mute.
Mr. Withers approached him, and spoke to him. The mute indicated his condition by signs. Mr. Withers appeared surprised and pained.
A painted board nailed to the side of the cottage set forth the terms for boats, fishing tackle, and sailing excursions.
While Mr. Withers was explaining to the mute by signs that he desired the use of a boat, with hook, line, and bait, a man emerged from the cavern and sauntered toward the spot. Mr. Withers felt a thrill as he beheld him, but calmly awaited his approach.
It was Roake.
“I am trying to make this unfortunately afflicted person understand that I desire to try my luck at fishing,” said Mr. Withers. “I am moved with pity as I look on him, for it is painful to witness such deprivations of the natural faculties.”
“Yes, Dummy knows what you want,” said Roake. “He’ll fix you out in a minute.”
“How quick of perception he seems to be,” said Mr. Withers. “Oftentimes the absence of one faculty lends additional keenness to the others.”
“Oh, he’s smart enough around his business,” replied Roake. “He has worked for me here these five years.”