Final answer:
In the provided passages, there is no explicit mention of Jonas's disappearance or an excuse to be given for it.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the provided passages, there is no explicit mention of Jonas's disappearance or an excuse to be given for it. However, in the given context, we can assume that Jonas's disappearance was due to his escape from captivity. His escape is mentioned as a reason for one of the old servants, Jacob, being a prisoner who came to see Jonas before going North. The passages do not provide any further details or reasons for Jonas's disappearance.