Page:Works of Jules Verne - Parke - Vol 1.djvu/247

 healths proposed in flattering terms. Healths were drank in sufficient number to ensure for each guest an. existence of centuries. Sir Francis M presided, with repressed emotion, but in a very dignified manner.

To the unutterable confusion of Dick Kennedy, he came in for a large share of the festive compliments. After having drunk to "the bold Ferguson, the glory of England," they found it necessary to toast "the no less courageous Kennedy, his brave companion."

Dick blushed deeply, which was put down to modesty; the applause was redoubled. Dick blushed still more.

A telegram from the Queen was received at dessert. She presented her compliments to the travelers, and her good wishes for the success of their enterprise.

This incident necessitated a new toast to the "Health of Her Most Gracious Majesty."

At midnight, after the most touching farewells and warm grasps of the hand, the guests separated.

The boats of the Resolute were in waiting at Westminster Bridge, the captain took his place in company with his officers and passengers, and a rapid ebb tide quickly carried them to Greenwich. At one o'clock they were all fast asleep on board.

The next morning, the 21st, at three o'clock, the fires were lighted; at five, the anchor was weighed, and with the assistance of her screw, the Resolute threaded her way to the sea.

There is no necessity for us to repeat the conversation which, on board, turned solely upon Dr. Ferguson's expedition. By his bearing, equally as by words, he inspired such confidence that, save the Scot, no one questioned the success of his undertaking. During the long, idle hours on board, the doctor instituted a regular geographical lecture in the wardroom. The young men were passionately interested in the discoveries which had been made during forty years in Africa. He related the explorations of Barth, Burton, Speke, and Grant; he described to them that mysterious land given up on all sides to scientific research. In the north the young Duveyrier had explored the Sahara, and brought back the Touareg chiefs to Paris. Two expeditions, under the authority of the French Government, were being prepared, which, descending from the north to the west, would