site side. The water was clear
as crystal, and from the shore upon which I stood I could see the
bottom. When I put in my stick, however, I could not fathom it--and
this at the shallowest part. Still, my existence might depend upon
recovering my rifle, so, throwing off my clothes, I plunged in and swam
to the foot of the cliff. I felt sure that I was under the very spot
from whence the things had fallen, but when I looked down,
notwithstanding the clearness of the water, I could not see them, nor
the bottom, and this at once convinced me of the immense depth. I had
therefore to abandon all hope of recovering my rifle and knapsack, and
swim back, not altogether without some fear of being seized with cramp
from the coldness of the water.

Quickly dressing, I ran on to warm myself, keeping as before to the
west, as I felt sure that Manley and the sergeant would proceed in the
same direction. Coming to a high mound or hill, I climbed to the top,
whence I could obtain a pretty extensive view; but nowhere could I see
any objects moving which could be my friends. A herd of elk were
browsing in the far distance, and a number of mountain sheep were
scampering about on the side of the neighbouring height. My eyes were
attracted, however, by some wreaths of vapour far down the valley, in
the direction which it was probable Manley and the sergeant had taken.
The vapour might arise from a fire they had kindled; but when I looked
again, I saw not only one, but several wreaths, or rather jets, which
made me fear that my first conjecture was wrong. However, as these jets
appeared in the right direction, I determined to go towards them.

I descended from the height, and continued my course, feeling unusually
weak and weary, when, some way along the valley, I observed several
circular holes, full of mud of different colours bubbling up, while
vapour issued from various fissures in the sides of the hills, and a
sulphureous odour pervaded the air.

Becoming more and more fatigued, at last I threw myself on the ground,
and ate a few of the thistle roots which I had fortunately brought with
me. I remember noticing a large hole not far off, but it appeared to be
empty. I felt very drowsy, and dropped off to sleep before long, my
head resting on my knees; when suddenly I became conscious of a loud
rumbling sound, while the earth beneath me seemed to shake and upheave.

Springing to my feet, what was my horror to see, close to me,