May I look at the great enterprise which is to glorify Springhaven?
It is more than kind of you to be here instead of there.

But this, as I ventured to say, is a far better place to observe the operation.

Your words reminded me of Captain Desportes, who has been, I think, your father's guest.

A very gallant sailor, and famed for the most unexpected exploits.

Without doubt, he would have captured all three ships, if he had not contrived to run his own aground." "How could he capture his own ship?
I thought that you never dealt in jokes.