In the centre of this vast country was an immense lake, covering at least fifteen thousand square feet, and this was filled with almost every conceivable species of fresh-water fish. This lake was undoubtedly fed by springs, for no inlet had ever been found. The river was its outlet, and this, as has been said before, emptied its waters into a large gulf, or hole in the ground which had a subterranean outlet.
For a long time our friends had wished to visit this inland sea, but their days had been so taken up with their other pleasures, a visit to the lake had been quite impossible, heretofore. However, the day was fixed for the long-looked-for pleasure, and they were about to start. It was intended that three days should be spent on this journey, one in going, one in fishing and the next in returning.
Mr. Graham was here in his element, for he found more real pleasure in fishing than in any other sport; and then, from what he could learn, this fishing excursion was liable to have its adventures, for it was said, that not only were there small fish in this lake, but also marine monsters too fearful for description and still more fearful to come in contact with. He would rather that the ladies remain in the city, but all were determined to go, so he gave his consent.
The morning, like all others in this fair land, was beautiful, and early, even before the sun had risen, the party started from the Temple. The ladies on the backs of the huge elephants, and the men riding ahead on sleek, well-groomed zebras, made a picture as they rode through the beautiful streets.
The populace was already astir, and the royal party was greeted on all sides with that respectful salute which was so graceful, but which had so little humility in it. A road new to the visitors was now taken, one which led in a straight line due northwest, and which was smoothly paved with onyx. This road, or avenue, was lined with tremendous trees, the thick foliage of which met and mingled a hundred feet above their heads, making a vast shady arch through which the sun’s rays could not penetrate. As far as their eyes could reach this tree-arched avenue extended.
“How far is it to the lake?” asked Nellie.
“Twenty miles, according to your method of measuring distances,” answered Onrai.
“And does this magnificent avenue extend so far?” asked Enola.
“Not only to the lake,” answered Onrai, “but it borders its shores, its entire circumference.”
“And is it all paved as it is here?” asked Harry.