However, I was content that he did not come, without caring to know why.
Then I became aware that the movement of the ship had changed in some way.

There was less of it, and the roll was longer.

Soon I heard Thorgils calling to his men, and then the creak of the blocks and the thud of folds of canvas on deck told me that the sail was lowered.

After that the long oars rattled as they were run out, and their even roll and click in the rowlocks seemed to say that they were making up to some anchorage or wharf.

The end of the voyage was at hand, and I worked harder than ever at my bonds.