But I was mistaken.
"I was thinking of that," he replied with great simplicity.
What could those words mean ?--Was he actually going to listen to reason?
Was he contemplating the abandonment of his plans?
This was too good to be true.
After a few moments' silence, during which I dared not question him, he resumed: "I was thinking of that.

Ever since we arrived at Stapi I have been occupied with the important question you have just opened, for we must not be guilty of imprudence." "No, indeed!" I replied with forcible emphasis.
"For six hundred years Snaefell has been dumb; but he may speak again.
Now, eruptions are always preceded by certain well-known phenomena.

I have therefore examined the natives, I have studied external appearances, and I can assure you, Axel, that there will be no eruption." At this positive affirmation I stood amazed and speechless.
"You don't doubt my word ?" said my uncle.

"Well, follow me." I obeyed like an automaton.

Coming out from the priest's house, the Professor took a straight road, which, through an opening in the basaltic wall, led away from the sea.