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230 "Or perhaps you might take charge of one of our large vessels," he suggested.

"Yes," I answered; "but I am not prepared to do so at present, for, in the first place, I have not studied the geography of the Nocalattan Sea; and, again, your vessels are in many respects different from ours, and it would take me some little time to master these details."

"Very well," was the response; "I merely mentioned the matter because I considered it might be more congenial to your inclination than settling upon the land. However, there are several small estates vacant in the neighbourhood, and you may choose one for yourself; you will be charged rent on the minimum scale allowed by our laws. This, however, you will find to be a mere trifle; in fact, you will very probably not be charged for the use of the land at all, as I am almost certain that the legislature shall be willing to take exception to your case. However, I may as well tell you that Onneyubla and myself have already discussed the question of your employment, and the Government have something else in view for you, if it should prove acceptable."

"What is it?" I inquired.

"To write a history of the other continents and