The water was fresh and clear, but it was water and did not suit Ned Land's taste.

Amongst the dishes which were brought to us, I recognised several fish delicately dressed; but of some, although excellent, I could give no opinion, neither could I tell to what kingdom they belonged, whether animal or vegetable.

As to the dinner-service, it was elegant, and in perfect taste.

Each utensil--spoon, fork, knife, plate--had a letter engraved on it, with a motto above it, of which this is an exact facsimile: MOBILIS IN MOBILI N The letter N was no doubt the initial of the name of the enigmatical person who commanded at the bottom of the seas.
Ned and Conseil did not reflect much.

They devoured the food, and I did likewise.