Donovan can only note the sailor's personal turmoil with a sorrow of his own. Though the subject of the tale is... peculiar, the tone in which it is related conveys conviction; obsession. A vendetta. It brings to mind experiences of a life long past, and the senseless pains a beating heart could inflict upon itself. Donovan had held no ambitions of the same magnitude, granted, but a greater desire could only mean a greater suffering when left unfulfilled.

Naturally he knew the solution to the captain's troubles; the solution to all troubles of the soul. But it was one not readily accepted.

Donovan is of like mind to his companion in at least one way; a month is by far too much time to lose in gaining entrance to the treasure cove. But in another fashion he disagreed; the captain would be of little use to them so afflicted as he was. To say nothing of the prospect of leaving him to suffer when he so clearly desired absolution.

"Why such a lengthy act of vengeance if peace of heart is what you seek?"

... "I assume you have not remained here for twelve years in the hopes that this whale will come to you. Rather than helping you to abandon your search for serenity, perhaps I could help you to find it?"