Page:Twenty Thousand Verne Frith 1876.pdf/79

 to indicate, equally in Quebec as in Pomaton, in Paris, or the antipodes, ‘I am hungry; give me something to eat?’”

“Oh!” cried Conseil, “there are some natures so utterly stupid—”

As he spoke the door opened and a steward entered. He brought us clothing, vests and trousers, fit for sea wear, of a material with which I was unacquainted. I hastened to clothe myself, and my companions followed my example.

Meantime the steward—silent, perhaps deaf—had laid the table and set on three dishes.

“There is something satisfactory,” said Conseil; “this promises well!”

“Bah!” cried the spiteful Canadian; “what the devil do you expect to get to eat here; tortoise livers, fillet of shark, or a slice from a sea-dog?”

“We shall soon see,” replied Conseil.

The dishes, with their silver covers, were placed symmetrically upon the cloth, and we took our places. Decidedly we had to do with civilised beings; and were it not for the electric light which surrounded us, I should have fancied we were sitting in the Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool, or in the Grand Hotel in Paris. I must say that we had neither wine nor bread on this occasion. The water was pure and bright; but it was water, which was not acceptable to Ned Land. Amongst the meats served to us I recognised various kinds of fish very delicately cooked; but upon some of the dishes I could not pronounce an opinion, as I was perfectly unable to say to what kingdom, animal or vegetable, they belonged. The table-service was elegant, and in perfect taste. Every