CHAPTER XX.
THRUST AND PARRY.
This incident seemed to have terminated the discussion, but when the agitation had subsided these words were heard uttered in a loud and severe voice:-- "Now that the orator has allowed his fancy to roam, perhaps he would kindly go back to his subject, pay less attention to theories, and discuss the practical part of his expedition." All eyes were turned towards the person who spoke thus.

He was a thin, dry-looking man, with an energetic face and an American beard.

By taking advantage of the agitation in the assembly from time to time he had gained, by degrees, the front row of spectators.

There, with his arms crossed, his eyes brilliant and bold, he stared imperturbably at the hero of the meeting.

After having asked his question he kept silence, and did not seem disturbed by the thousands of eyes directed towards him nor by the disapproving murmur excited by his words.