backing the gig, he succeeded in entering. A scene of marvelous beauty
met his wondering eyes. High above, the rays of the tropical sun
pierced the numerous cracks and crevices in the arched roof of the
cavern, illuminating with gorgeous coloring the submarine vegetation
which hung like long snakes from roof and walls. Here the curling
vines and tendrils glowed a deep purple; there, owing to changing
light, a dark green; everywhere, light greens, dark reds, pinks,
crimsons, yellows, greys, bright reds and every conceivable color. Sea
fans and, sea plumes there were in endless variety, while outside, in
the scorching heat, no sign of vegetation relieved the eye, inside was
cool and beautiful with the luxuriance of the flora of the sea. The
sides of the cavern were filled with molusca--radiantly colored shells,
sea urchins and innumerable specimens of marine life. Along the pale
green surfaces of shelving rocks, sea foxes, a fur bearing animal on
that coast; bright, wicked little fellows, darted about, uttering shrill
cries at the intrusion of the stranger as he drifted slowly back into
their fairylike abode. Paul felt as though he would like to have one
of the little fellows and raised his carbine to shoot; but it seemed
profanation to disturb the grand serenity and beauty of the scene.
The weapon was lowered and the animals allowed to play undisturbed.

The gig was backed slowly through the brilliant arches until the light
became dim and the darkening recesses wore a gruesome look. Thinking it
unsafe to penetrate further the vast, unknown aisles, Paul rowed out of
the yawning mouth after picking up many shells of every hue.

Next evening anchor was weighed and the sloop headed for Pachacamac. It
was beautiful moonlight. About midnight, sailing close in shore, they
were passing a white, sandy beach when one of the crew asked Boyton if
he would like some turtles, as the place they were then passing, swarmed
with them. An affirmative answer being given, the sloop was hove to,
while Paul and the sailor entered the gig and pulled ashore. Under
the strong rays of the moon, the turtles on the white sand appeared to
be as thick as ants. Selecting two or three of the smaller size for
their game, hundreds of them being too large to be turned over by their
united efforts, they quickly threw them on their backs while the others
ran into the sea with astonishing celerity considering their very