Chapter 10
The Man of the WatersIT WAS THE ship's commander who had just spoken.
At these words Ned Land stood up quickly. Nearly strangled, the
steward staggered out at a signal from his superior; but such was
the commander's authority aboard his vessel, not one gesture gave
away the resentment that this man must have felt toward the
Canadian. In silence we waited for the outcome of this scene;
Conseil, in spite of himself, seemed almost fascinated, I was
stunned.
Arms crossed, leaning against a corner of the table, the
commander studied us with great care. Was he reluctant to speak
further? Did he regret those words he had just pronounced in
French? You would have thought so.
After a few moments of silence, which none of us would have
dreamed of interrupting:
"Gentlemen,"
