"Ah!" he commented, incisively, when I had finished.  "An exceedingly interesting story.  Captain Tourville will be pleased that we have picked you up when he hears the news to-morrow.  Meanwhile, by lucky chance we happen to have an unoccupied state-room into which I will put you for the remainder of the night.  Thoreau,"--to the man who had conducted me aft--"take this gentleman below to the cabin; then turn out the steward and tell him to put some bedding into the spare state-room, but to be silent about it lest he disturb the captain.  And now, monsieur, permit me to bid you good-night.  I trust you will rest well."