Then it had soared suddenly, and vanished in whorls of mist.
Percy shook his head, saying nothing.

He had no explanation.
"They are inquiring, I understand," said Father Bechlin again.

"The conductor was at his instrument just now." There was nothing to be seen from the windows now.

Only, as Percy stared out, still dazed with the shock, he saw the cruel needle of rock wavering beneath as if seen through water, and the huge shoulder of snow swaying softly up and down.

It was quieter outside.