[Off on a Comet by Jules Verne]@TWC D-Link bookOff on a Comet CHAPTER IX 5/8
In a few minutes more Count Timascheff had landed on the island.
Captain Servadac hastened towards him. "First of all, count," he exclaimed impetuously, "before we speak one other word, tell me what has happened." The count, whose imperturbable composure presented a singular contrast to the French officer's enthusiastic vivacity, made a stiff bow, and in his Russian accent replied: "First of all, permit me to express my surprise at seeing you here.
I left you on a continent, and here I have the honor of finding you on an island." "I assure you, count, I have never left the place." "I am quite aware of it.
Captain Servadac, and I now beg to offer you my sincere apologies for failing to keep my appointment with you." "Never mind, now," interposed the captain; "we will talk of that by-and-by.
First, tell me what has happened." "The very question I was about to put to you, Captain Servadac." "Do you mean to say you know nothing of the cause, and can tell me nothing of the extent, of the catastrophe which has transformed this part of Africa into an island ?" "Nothing more than you know yourself." "But surely, Count Timascheff, you can inform me whether upon the northern shore of the Mediterranean--" "Are you certain that this is the Mediterranean ?" asked the count significantly, and added, "I have discovered no sign of land." The captain stared in silent bewilderment.
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