"If this letter had been written in Greek or Latin, I could have read it," continued Mr. Hamblin, glancing at the sheet.
"Precisely so; if it had been written in Greek or Latin I could not read it," laughed Mr. Stoute.
"My French, as I have had occasion to acknowledge to you with deep humiliation, has been neglected for more important studies. This letter appears to have been written by some distinguished person, but unfortunately he has chosen to indite it in French."
"In a word, you wish me to read it to you."
"That is what I was about to request of you. May I ask you to retire with me to our state-room?" continued Professor Hamblin, glancing at the officers who were reading their letters in the cabin.
"Excuse me, Mr. Hamblin; you forget that I carry round with me two hundred and odd pounds of flesh, besides bone and muscle, and that I have been on my feet three hours. I think, sir, if I knew this vessel was going to the bottom of the Scheldt this instant, I should go down with her rather than move. Have me excused, I pray you, and have compassion on mine infirmities," laughed Mr. Stoute.
Mr. Hamblin was vexed, but he gave the letter to his associate, who turned the sheet and glanced at the signature.
"Ah!" exclaimed he, looking at Mr. Hamblin.
"What is it? Do me the favor to read it," replied the learned gentleman, impatiently.
"It is from Monsieur Charles Rogier, the president of the council, and minister of foreign affairs," added Professor Stoute. "He is the man who organized the revolution of 1830, and the greatest man in Belgium, King Leopold excepted."