"You will observe," he said, "that the glass in these ports is of very great thickness. Green seas have often dashed over them, yet we have never been flooded. Only on stormy nights I lower great wooden ports."
He untied a chain as he spoke, and down with a thud came a shutter of wood and iron.
"Safe you see against the mightiest gale that ever blew."
"How interesting. The sea too looks charming to-day from your windows. Was it out yonder my poor darling was nearly drowned?"
"Yes, madam."
There was a moment's surcease of talking, during which nothing could be heard but the gentle lap-lapping of the waves on the black rocks beneath.
"Are you fond of animal life, madam?
"Will you be startled if I introduce to you one or two of my pets?"
"But they won't hurt?"
"No, they are good-mannered crabs."