The great vessels coming, going or lying by the piers, extending far outward from the eastern shore, are of the same class as those traversing the waterways and large bodies of water with which they connect. They are most scientifically and stanchly built, and as on Ento's waters dangerous gales seldom occur, and their motive power is electric, they rarely are exposed to the destructive forces of storms, or of fire. Then, too, Ento's ethereal signal system is so perfect that collisions never occur. Indeed, by the Entoans accidents are regarded as little less than crimes. Life is considered so sacred, and death so deplorable that all possible precautions are taken to preserve the one, and ward off the other. Inidor[a:], you will kindly resume. Inidora--Genessano and I remember seeing the same kind of vessels plying between this and other ports. At that time Indolois[a:]'s eastern shore was further away, and with surprise we note how its waters have encroached upon the land. I am informed that in your tongue Indolois[a:] would be quiet or tranquil water. Compared with other large bodies of water it is tranquil, yet I have seen it very tempestuous indeed. Yonder massive sea wall is being constructed for the purpose of arresting its aggressive waters, which have bitten deeply into its eastern and northern shores. De L'Ester says that some of your astronomers have decided that the surface of Ento is about equally divided between land and water. In a sense, this is true, but its natural divisions of water fall far short of occupying one-half of its surface. Considered as a whole, the made areas fully equal one-third of the natural water areas of our planet. At other times we may call your attention to this matter, so for the present we will pass it by. Indolois[a:] is a very salt body of water, but during the season of floods its volume being enormously increased, it, of course, is less so. Were it a fresh water sea long ago the plateau would have been pierced to form a connection between it and the Central Waterway. As it is, it is included in the System, interchange of transportation being as you perceive, effected by means of both air transportation and soitzēn[a:] (tramways). We now will descend, but before proceeding further De L'Ester has something to say to you. De L'Ester--I indeed have something to say to you, and am somewhat at a loss how to word it. From time to time we have intimated to you that our purpose in bringing you to Ento, is that we may use you as an instrument through whom we hope to accomplish a certain mission, trusting that its gradual unfoldment might induce in you a willing acquiescence with our desires until now we have deferred acquainting you with our entire purposes. Be assured, Gentol[a:], that your personal safety and welfare is to us as sacred as is our mission, and we pray you to trust yourself unreservedly to our care and guidance.