"I know that," answered Reinhold; "but I am not speaking of ordinary atmospheric changes and disturbances, but of a catastrophe which I am convinced has been preparing for years, and only awaits the final impulse, which will not long be wanting, to burst upon us with a violence of which the wildest fancy can form no conception."
"Are we still in the domain of reality, or already in the realm of fancy?" asked the Count.
"We are in the region of possibilities," answered Reinhold; "that possibility which, as a glance at the map will show us, has already at least once proved a reality, and, according to human calculations, will before very long become such again."
"You are making us extremely curious," said the Count
He said it ironically; but he had truly expressed the feelings of the party. All eyes were turned upon Reinhold.
"I am afraid I may weary the ladies with these matters," said Reinhold.
"Not in the least," said Elsa.
"I am wild about everything connected with the sea," cried Meta, with a mischievous glance at Elsa.
"You would really oblige me," said the President.
"Pray continue," said the General.