On the other side was the river, winding through gulches and hills and stretching out of sight in the distance. Opposite the hill were the boats, and under trees not far away were the explorers resting peacefully in the shade.
It was a spectacular view, and Bob and Joe spent several minutes in silently gazing down.
“No evidence of human habitation anywhere around,” remarked Bob, trying to single out a settlement somewhere in the distance.
In the vast, silent jungle sound travels far, and realizing this, the youths shouted to the others, to let them know of their commanding position.
“Now let’s get down from here and tramp on through the forest,” said Joe, finding a foothold in the heavy soil.
It was necessary to exercise more care in descending, for the rocks were pointed and dangerous to step on. A safe place had to be felt out cautiously.
The youths reached the bottom in a very short time, however, and followed a narrow trail that wound out of sight.
“Be impossible to cut through this jungle if there were no trails of any kind,” said Bob, his keen eyes unable to penetrate the tangled mass of vegetation on either side of them.
“Not without a machete, anyway,” nodded Joe. “Even then it would be a hard job.”
The youths hiked on until they came to a small stream that emptied into the river. They sat down on the bank to take in their surroundings.