i improved , however , sensibly in this science , but not sufficiently to follow up any kind of conversation , although i applied my whole mind to the endeavour : for i easily perceived that , although i eagerly longed to discover myself to the cottagers , i ought not to make the attempt until i had first become master of their language ; which knowledge might enable me to make them overlook the deformity of my figure ; for with this also the contrast perpetually presented to my eyes had made me acquainted .