"The sea does have a rhythm all of its own," Magnus agrees. His contact with it has been fleeting- the crossing of la Manche most notable. It had been blessedly short but highly unpleasant, all things considered. He is not sure if he would now cope any better with rough waves and howling gales, considering the wolfish part of his nature liked boats so little.

"We have dances similar to what you have described, but standing in rows is only part of a complicated set of steps. The young people are not as keen anymore, but I dare say their children will think the same in time."