“Perhaps he backed down, which kings and emperors are sometimes obliged to do, as well as common people,” suggested Paul Kendall.
“Very likely he did; I don’t see any other way for the team to descend,” added Joseph. “This tower was begun in 1639.”
At the top of the structure the travellers took a general survey of the city, and then proceeded to examine it in detail.
“Do you remember the latitude of Copenhagen, Captain Lincoln?” asked Dr. Winstock.
“About fifty-five and a half.”
“The same as the middle of Labrador. Quebec is about forty-seven, and this is a long way farther north. What is the population of this city, Joseph?” asked the doctor.
“One hundred and eighty-one thousand,” replied the guide, giving the census of 1870. “Formerly the city was a walled town, with ramparts and moats. It was built partly on Seeland, and partly on the small island of Amager. The channel between them is the harbor. You can see where the old line of fortifications was. The old town lies nearest to the sea, but the city is now spreading rapidly out into the country.”
“What is that broad sheet of water, with two bridges over it?” asked Lincoln, pointing to the land side.
“That is the reservoir. Formerly the water in the city was bad, but now it has an excellent system of water-works. The water comes in from the country, and is pumped up by steam before it is distributed. Beyond that, for miles, the country is covered with beautiful villas and country residences. You must ride out there, for the environs of Copenhagen are as fine as anything in Europe.”
“You are right, Joseph,” added the doctor. “Some parts of the city are not unlike Holland, you see. The Slotsholm canal gives that part of the town a decidedly Dutch look.”