The arrival of a stranger at an inn in winter was in itself a strange occurrence. Moreover he had an uncommon appearance. Mrs Hall’s put in all her efforts to be friendly but he was in no mood to talk to anyone. He told her that he had no desire to talk, and that all he wanted was solitude. He did not wish to be disturbed in his work and his face had been affected by an accident. For all these reasons she regarded him as an eccentric scientist.
