And Noah climbed to his skylight, and lifted it up, and looked out.
And behold the earth had risen from the waters, still damp, but yet solid earth.
And Noah passed along the good word. And in the Ark was great excitement, and hope revived.
24. LEAVING THE ARK
And soon the good ship thumped and bumped, and struck bottom. And though she landed at an uncomfortable angle, on a mountain top, they knew that at last the great cruise was ended.
And Noah opened the door, and let down the gang-plank.
And beasts and birds surged out on the desolate rock; and though the mud was thick and heavy, some found it to their liking, and all preferred it to the ship.