«You have the gift of appearing just when my mind is full of your name and even your image. But, Stephen, my dear, you are so pale and thin! Give you to eat? Have you been sick? You are on license, without a doubt. You have to stop here for a long time, the colonel will regret salmon, smoked eels and trout, will return before dinner. My God, I'm so happy to see you, my dear! Come now, rest, seem destroyed. Come and bed in my bed. " "Do I have to come to your bed?" «Of course you have to come to my bed: and you don't have to leave it anymore. Stephen, you don't have to go back to the sea never again "
In this excerpt from "The Commodore" by Patrick O'Brian, the speaker expresses deep concern for Stephen, noticing his frail appearance and implying that he has been unwell. The speaker's affection is clear, as they reminisce about shared memories and the food they will enjoy together. This dialogue highlights a bond between the characters and suggests a desire for Stephen to stay close, both physically and emotionally.
The conversation culminates in an invitation for Stephen to rest in the speaker's bed, indicating a protective and nurturing instinct. The insistence that Stephen should not return to the sea emphasizes the speaker's wish to keep him safe and secure, showcasing the complexities of their relationship. This moment captures a blend of care and longing, underlining the emotional weight of their connection.
