he had a sudden urge to keep his peaceful solitude a moment longer , but too late-in seconds , he was surrounded by confusion , the shrill cries of excited children and calls of distracted mothers , the welcoming of the newcomers , the bustle and rush of unloading , turning out the horses and mules , fetching feed and water ... and yet in the midst of this babel , he moved as though he were still alone , peaceful and quiet in the setting sun .