But, after all, in order to see, the light must exceed the darkness, and in the midst of the darkness in the water, how can you see ?" "Behind the steersman's cage is placed a powerful electric reflector, the rays from which light up the sea for half a mile in front." "Ah! bravo, bravo, Captain! Now I can account for this phosphorescence in the supposed narwhal that puzzled us so.

I now ask you if the boarding of the Nautilus and of the Scotia, that has made such a noise, has been the result of a chance rencontre ?" "Quite accidental, sir.

I was sailing only one fathom below the surface of the water when the shock came.

It had no bad result." "None, sir.

But now, about your rencontre with the Abraham Lincoln ?" "Professor, I am sorry for one of the best vessels in the American navy; but they attacked me, and I was bound to defend myself.