Christy then suggested that his friend should be berthed in the ward room.

The ship's steward was called, and directed to give Mr.
Gilfleur a room next to the other passenger.

As they were likely to have many conferences together in regard to the business on their hands, they were both particular in regard to the location of their rooms; and the chief steward suited them as well as he could.
The detective spoke to him in French, but the steward could not understand a word he said.

Christy inquired if any of the ward-room officers spoke the polite language, for his friend might sometimes wish to converse in his own tongue.
"I don't believe they do, for they all got into the ward room through the hawse-hole," replied the steward, laughing at the very idea.
When the passengers went on deck, the commander introduced them both to the officers of the ship.

To each in turn, at the request of Christy, he put the question as to whether or not he could speak French; and they all replied promptly in the negative, and laughed at the inquiry.
"Have you no one on board who speaks French, Captain Chantor ?" asked Christy.
"I don't know anything about it, but as it seems to be of some importance to you and your friend, I will ascertain at once.