And he was so far softened by my gratitude as to add a word of praise on the American method of lacing sails.

"You're ahead of us in lacing sails," he said.

"You can say that with a clear conscience." "Thank you," I replied.

"I shall certainly do so." At this rate, we got along swimmingly; and when I rose to retrace my steps to the Fowlery, he at once started to his feet and offered me the welcome solace of his company for the return.

I believe I discovered much alacrity at the idea, for the creature (who seemed to be unique, or to represent a type like that of the dodo) entertained me hugely.
But when he had produced his hat, I found I was in the way of more than entertainment; for on the ribbon I could read the legend: "H.M.S.
Tempest." "I say," I began, when our adieus were paid, and we were scrambling down the path from the look-out, "it was your ship that picked up the men on board the Flying Scud, wasn't it ?" "You may say so," said he.