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Rh witnessed by our astronomers, no evidence of the existence of animal life was observed. Yet they themselves noted that it was quite possible for portions of it to contain vast populations, without being detected by them. Their account of it says that the surface is very irregular, and that mountains, valleys, and oceans are in proportion to the size of the great orb itself. I should also have added," he continued, "that it was only when a certain portion of its surface was facing or opposite a well-known locality in Mars, that the people were seen to alight on the former. However, it is drawing near our resting hour, so I shall retire, and leave you with my friend here."

On saying this, and wishing me to look in again, he took his departure.

After he had gone, I casually remarked to Yondozi that I felt interested in his friend, and the revelations he had made.

"He is a most learned man," he said, "and a capital fellow into the bargain. I have known him a long time. We all look up to him on account of his age, good qualities, and vast and varied knowledge."

"Has he been long in this establishment?" I asked.