Indeed, I think that was the strongest motive for my escapade, for even before I heard Laputa tell of the vows and the purification, I had it in my mind to go at all costs to the cave.

I am a peaceable man at most times, but I think I would rather have had the Portugoose's throat in my hands than the collar of Prester John.
But behind my thoughts was one master-feeling, that Providence had given me my chance and I must make the most of it.

Perhaps the Calvinism of my father's preaching had unconsciously taken grip of my soul.

At any rate I was a fatalist in creed, believing that what was willed would happen, and that man was but a puppet in the hands of his Maker.

I looked on the last months as a clear course which had been mapped out for me.