CHAPTER XXVI.GRIMM’S LAW AGAIN.
Dinner was now announced, and Oxenden laid the manuscript aside; whereupon they adjourned to the cabin, where they proceeded to discuss both the repast and the manuscript.
“Well,” said Featherstone, “More’s story seems to be approaching a crisis. What do you think of it now, Melick? Do you still think it a sensational novel?”
“Partly so,” said Melick; “but it would be nearer the mark to call it a satirical romance.”
“Why not a scientific romance?”
“Because there’s precious little science in it, but a good deal of quiet satire.”
“Satire on what?” asked Featherstone. “I’ll be hanged if I can see it.”
“Oh, well,” said Melick, “on things in general. The satire is directed against the restlessness of humanity; its impulses, feelings, hopes, and fears—all t
