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116 since my arrival here. If I could only forget Louva! I clenched my teeth, as I had often done before on the Penguin, and clasped my knife more tightly in my hand. I would try to forget her.

I enjoyed the second banquet even more than the firsts for I met many beautiful young ladies and others who endeavoured to persuade me to prolong my visit. I felt as if I could not leave this genuine and generous people, and, indeed, before the banquet was over, I had abandoned the idea of leaving Neuroomia for the present.

But the difficulty was, how to be revenged on Septimus; that was the question. If he were tried in Australia, still it was possible he might escape, even if I charged him with conspiracy and mutiny; for he would very probably engage a lawyer. Yes! Septimus had money, and would engage a lawyer—scheming dog! What was to be done? I would punish Septimus Adolphus Eobinson myself!

The great bulk of the visitors had now taken their departure, and those at the palace began to retire. I felt sleepy myself, so I followed the example of the latter, and sank into an extremely soft bed, twisted myself a few times, then turned on my back, fell asleep, and very probably snored; for I generally snore after a banquet.