"Our landing is the only thing doubtful," resumed Glenarvan. "Once at Villa-Praïa, you will not have very uncomfortable quarters; rather uncleanly, to be sure, in the company of monkeys and swine, whose surroundings are not always agreeable; but a traveler does not regard that so critically. Besides, you can hope in seven or eight months to embark for Europe."
"Seven or eight months!" exclaimed Paganel.
"At least that. The Cape Verd Islands are very rarely frequented during the rainy season. But you can employ your time profitably. This archipelago is still little known. There is much to do, even now."
"But," replied Paganel in a pitiful tone, "what could I do after the investigations of the geologist Deville?"
"That is really a pity," said Lady Helena. "What will become of you, Monsieur Paganel?"
Paganel was silent for a few moments.
"You had decidedly better have landed at Madeira," rejoined Glenarvan, "although there is no wine there."
"My dear Glenarvan," continued Paganel at last, "where shall you land next?"
"At Concepcion."
"Alas! but that would bring me directly away from India!"