But it is rather
late to make inquiries on this subject. It was between a quarter
and half-past nine o'clock when this occurred. 'The sea!' cried
Jules; 'look at the revolving lights of the lighthouses. There:
one has just disappeared: it will flash out again in a moment!'
But what is this? Before us, as far as our eyes can reach, we
distinguish faint lights, which in this case are neither lamps
nor torches. As we continue to draw nearer we get a better view
of these numerous, violent, and smoking furnaces. Loud and
ringing sounds strike on our ear at the same time. Am I right in
my conjectures? Is this not that splendid country I love more
than ever now? It must be Erquelines! And the dignified
Custom-house official, had it been possible, would have added
thereto 'Belgium!'
"We still continue to pass over fires, forges, tall chimneys, and
coal mines at frequent intervals. Not long after we distinguish
a large town on our right hand, which, by its size and brilliant
lighting by gas, we recognise as Brussels. There could be no
mistake, for close by, more modest in size and appearance, we see
Catholic Malines. We have left it behind us.
"Onward! Onward! Behind us the fires fade gradually away, and
disappear one after anopther.
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