I stammered out an interrogation:--"Why is this?
Why should we cross the river?
What service can I do for you?
I ought to know the purpose of my voyage before I enter it." He checked himself and surveyed me for a minute in silence.

"What do you fear ?" said he.

"Have I not explained my wishes?
Merely cross the river with me, for I cannot navigate a boat by myself.

Is there any thing arduous or mysterious in this undertaking?
we part on the Jersey shore, and I shall leave you to your destiny.

All I shall ask from you will be silence, and to hide from mankind what you know concerning me." He now entered the boat and urged me to follow his example.