The Okapi was brought broadside on, so that the crew could have a clear view of the river; and they sat for some time in silence, looking at the strange object—a tiny but steady glow of fire.
"Shut off the bull's-eye, Venning. We'll make for mid-stream, and approach the fire with caution."
The boat moved out into the current, then worked up very tenderly while Venning steered, with his eyes fixed on that little speck of red. Slowly they advanced, cautiously were the levers pulled over and shot back, so that there should be no noise, and silently the smooth craft cut into the darkness. But light travels far, and they seemed to get no nearer.
"I believe it's a light in a boat," muttered the lookout.
The others slowed up, and they listened, but they heard no sound of paddles, only innumerable stealthy whisperings from the woods.
"It is stationary," said Mr. Hume, "and ashore, as you may see from its fixity. Beep her away. We can't be too careful."
They made a long reach down, going very warily, and taking care not to keep their eyes solely upon the fire; for a light is a good lure to draw the careless into an ambush, unless they are on the look-out for danger in a different quarter.
"I can't see any one about," said Venning, who was using the night- glasses.
In complete silence they came at last opposite the fire, but no sooner had they passed it than it went out.
"Put her round," whispered Mr. Hume.