"May I ask who and what she is ?" "Yes; she is the widow of a sea-captain, who has a collection of curiosities which she keeps on exhibition, devoting the proceeds, so she says, to benevolent purposes.

She is an odd body; herself the greatest curiosity she has to show, I think.

You should visit her museum by all means." "We shall be happy to do so if you will kindly put us in the way of it," said Edward.

"How shall we proceed in order to gain admittance ?" "If we can get up a party it will be easy enough; I shall then send her word, and she will appoint the hour when she will receive us; she likes to show her independence, and will not exhibit unless to a goodly number.
"I know of several visitors on the island who want to go, and if your party will join with them there will be no difficulty." "I think I can promise that we will," said Edward.

"I will let you know positively to-morrow morning." "That will do nicely.