For many days not a leaf, not a tree—no, not so much as a blade of grass, had been seen.
The unmistakable forest was as acceptable to the travelers as is a rain shower to the parched earth.
It was impossible to reach the forest that day, but so impetuous was the spirit of the two youths that they obtained permission to go in advance of the party, and while Sherif el Habib rested—for he was getting to look jaded and tired—they would investigate and return to report.
Max and Ibrahim, now the best of friends, went forward, joyously.
They were both well armed, and carried enough rations to last them four days.
It was noon on the following day before they were near to the forest.
Never before had they seen such gigantic trees.
But there was something weird and strange about the trees.
Not one of them appeared to have any foliage.
They stood erect, with their topmost branches piercing the clouds, as it were, but not a sign or movement was visible.