Nothing was lacking, not even fishes.

Mr.
Birne bathed there everyday, descending into it by an opening made in the upper panel of the center door.

Before long an ancient and fish-like smell pervaded the neighborhood, and Dolores had half an inch of water in her bedroom.
The landlord grew furious and threatened Mr.Birne with an action for damages done to his property.
"Have I not a right," asked the Englishman, "to bathe in my rooms ?" "Not in that way, sir." "Very well, if I have no right to, I won't," said the Briton, full of respect for the laws of the country in which he lived.

"It's a pity; I enjoyed it very much." That very night he had his ocean drained off.

It was full time: there was already an oyster bed forming on the floor.
However, Mr.Birne had not given up the contest.