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Rh venture to represent to your Grace that they are not worth a visit. People have told me that they are the most stupid old men that ever lived. They understand nothing, and they have not a word to say; the very fish in the sea are not more stupid."

"Nevertheless, I will go," said the Archbishop; "and I will pay you for your trouble in taking me."

There was nothing more to be said. Orders were given to the sailors, the sails were spread, the steersman altered the ship's course, and they sailed towards the island. The Archbishop brought a chair on to the prow. He sat down and gazed, and all the people gathered together on the prow and stared at the island. And those whose eyes were keenest could already make out the stones on the shore of the island, and the little hut of earth. And there was one who could even see the three old men. Then the master drew forth his telescope, looked through it, and gave it to the Archbishop. "Yes," said he; "there on the shore, on the right of a large stone, stand three men."

The Archbishop also looked through the telescope, found the right focus, and there, sure enough, stood the three; one was tall, the second was not so tall, and the third was very small. They were standing on the shore holding each other by the hand.

The master of the ship approached the Archbishop.

"Here your Grace," said he, "the ship must stop. If it please you, take a seat in the skiff, and we will remain here at anchor."

And immediately they lowered the anchor, let down the sails, and the vessel swung to and fro till 253