"That may be," replied Captain Mangles. "It is not probable that the water has obliterated these lines in exactly the same places on each, and by comparing these remains of phrases we shall arrive at some intelligible meaning."
"We will do so," said Lord Glenarvan; "but let us proceed systematically. And, first, here is the English document."
It showed the following arrangement of lines and words:
"That does not mean much," said the major, with an air of disappointment.
"Whatever it may mean," replied the captain, "it is good English."
"There is no doubt of that," said his lordship. "The words wreck, aland, this, and, lost, are perfect. Cap evidently means captain, referring to the captain of a shipwrecked vessel."
"Let us add," said the captain, "the portions of the words docu and ssistance, the meaning of which is plain."
"Well, something is gained already!" added Lady Helena.