ed so
impossible as to discourage close inspection. We satisfied ourselves
that with the help of our rope we could find our way down, and then
returned, rejoicing, to our camp to make our preparations for the next
evening.

What we did we had to do quickly and secretly, since even at this last
hour the Indians might hold us back. Our stores we would leave behind
us, save only our guns and cartridges. But Challenger had some
unwieldy stuff which he ardently desired to take with him, and one
particular package, of which I may not speak, which gave us more labor
than any. Slowly the day passed, but when the darkness fell we were
ready for our departure. With much labor we got our things up the
steps, and then, looking back, took one last long survey of that
strange land, soon I fear to be vulgarized, the prey of hunter and
prospector, but to each of us a dreamland of glamour and romance, a
land where we had dared much, suffered much, and learned much--OUR
land, as we shall ever fondly call it. Along upon our left the
neighboring caves each threw out its ruddy cheery firelight into the
gloom. From the slope below us rose the voices of the Indians as they
laughed and sang. Beyond was the long sweep of the woods, and in the
center, shimmering vaguely through the gloom, was the great lake, the
mother of strange monsters. Even as we looked a high whickering cry,
the call of some weird animal, rang clear out of the darkness. It was
the very voice of Maple White Land bidding us good-bye. We turned and
plunged into the cave which led to home.

Two hours later, we, our packages, and all we owned, were at the foot
of the cliff. Save for Challenger's luggage we had never a difficulty.
Leaving it all where we descended, we started at once for Zambo's camp.
In the early morning we approached it, but only to find, to our
amazement, not one fire but a dozen upon the plain. The rescue party
had arrived. There were twenty Indians from the river, with stakes,
ropes, and all that could be useful for bridging the chasm. At least
we shall have no difficulty now in carrying our packages, when
to-morrow we begin to make our way back to the Amazon.

And so, in humble and thankful mood, I close this account. Our eyes
have seen great wonders and our souls are chastened by what we have
endured. Each is in his own way a better and deeper man. It may be
that when we reach Para we shall stop to refit. If we do, this letter
will b