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 floating in the midst of such riches. You are one of those who have made their own fortune. No museum in Europe possesses such a collection as yours. But if I go on admiring these so much, I shall have no wonder left for the vessel that carries us. I do not wish to pry into your secrets, but I confess that the speed of the Nautilus, the machinery that guides her, the power that animates her, all have excited my curiosity to a very high pitch. I see hanging from these walls some instruments with whose uses I am unacquainted. May I know what they are?”

“M. Aronnax,” replied the captain, “I have already told you that you are free on board my ship, and so no part of the Nautilus is forbidden you. You can go over her, and I shall be very happy to be your conductor.”

“I really don’t know how to thank you, monsieur, but I will not abuse your confidence. I will only enquire the uses of those instruments.”

“Similar instruments will be found in my room, and I will explain their uses there, But first come and see your own cabin. You ought to know how you are likely to be lodged on board the Nautilus.”

I followed the captain, who, by one of the doors pierced in each side of the room, brought us back into the “waist” of the ship. He led the way forward, and there I found not merely a cabin, but an elegantly-fitted chamber, containing a bed, wardrobe, and other furniture.

I was not able to express my thanks to my host.

“Your room is contiguous to mine,” said he, opening a door as he spoke, “and mine opens into the room we have just left.”