deep. We here found ourselves amid columns
and stalactites hanging from the high-domed roof, resembling Gothic
arches. The bright sunlight streamed down through the wonderfully clear
water, and was reflected up from the sparkling stones and coral at the
bottom, with a beautiful series of light tints, and shades of delicate
blue and green, over every part of the walls and vaulted roof. We
agreed that it was the fit abode of the most charming of sea-nymphs and
mermaids; indeed, we almost expected to see some of the fair ladies
seated among the rocks, combing their hair. At the further end there
was an arched passage, sloping upwards till it reached an opening in the
roof above. Some of our companions landed, and made their way up it,
now appearing, now disappearing among the rocks, the effect in their
progress being singularly picturesque and scenic. On their return,
after visiting another smaller cave, we made sail for Neuha's cavern.
On arriving at the spot, we in vain looked for any sign of the entrance,
till the chief pointed out to us two poles placed crosswise, which, he
said, marked it.

"Now, which of you would like to accompany me into the cavern?" he
asked. "You must be prepared for a long dive."

Neither Charlie nor Dick Tilston were willing to venture, on hearing how
long they would have to hold their breath. At last I agreed to go, the
chief undertaking to keep hold of my hand, and to conduct me in safety.
On looking down, with our backs to the sun, we could see a darker patch
than usual among the coral-covered rocks, some eight feet below the
surface: this was the entrance. We had brought a long line, which was
secured to one of the canoes. A follower of the chief's, taking the
end, jumped overboard. By watching him carefully we saw him disappear
in the midst of the dark patch. He was absent for about ten minutes,
and he said that he had made the line secure in the inside of the
cavern. After he had rested a little while, the chief asked me if I was
ready, when, he and his follower taking me by the arm, we dived
downwards, the chief keeping the end of the line in his hand to guide
us. I held my breath and struck out with my feet, but my companions had
some difficulty in keeping me down sufficiently to avoid scraping my
back against the sharp points which project from the roof of the
passage. As the whole distance was thirty feet, I was so much exhausted
by the time I reached the surface insi