human
It is superb, and so simple, cried the Count to Uncle Paul;
gpt
Well, said Uncle Paul good-humouredly,
human
That's it, sir, said the skipper.
gpt
You have hit the right nail on the head. But look here, Mr Count--I don't know your name.
human
Des Saix,
gpt
Look here, sir; this is nothing to make a fuss about. It will keep you afloat while the weather's fine, but just come a rough time, those sails will be ripped off as easily as pocket-handkerchiefs. Besides, they will hinder your sailing no end.
human
Ah, that is bad,
gpt
Oh no, not it. There's worse disasters than that at sea.
human
But will it not be possible for the carpenters to stop the leaks?
gpt
No, sir; not unless you do what I say.
human
Ah! What is that?
gpt
Run your craft up one of the rivers to where you can careen on the mad, and then a few hours between tides will be enough to put everything straight.
human
Is there no other way?
gpt
Only downwards, sir,
human
No, said the boy, almost in a whisper.
gpt
I don't think there is any other way. He is quite right.