"You have come to visit Neopalia?" he asked.
A number of people had gathered round us now, and all fixed their eyes on my face.
"Oh," I said carelessly, "I am the purchaser of the island, you know. I have come to take possession."
Nobody spoke. Perfect silence reigned for half a minute.
"I hope we shall get on well together," I said, with my pleasantest smile.
Still no answer came. The people round still stared.
At last the stout man, altogether ignoring my friendly advances, said, curtly:
"I keep the inn. Come. I will take you to it."
He turned and led the way up the street. We followed, the people making a lane for us, and still regarding us with stony stares. Denny gave expression to my feelings, as well as his own: