Here and there jagged cypress stumps, to which clung drooping parasites, stood out of it.
Nelatu felt that the trail he had followed was purposely terminated at the edge of the lake, doubtless to be discovered on its opposite shore.
How to cross it? That was the question.
Stooping, he scanned the shore, but failed to trace any further evidence of the footsteps of man.
He was on the point of retracing his path in order to look for a trail, when he was arrested by a faint sound, as from a movement in the water.
It was very faint, but unmistakeable in its character.
It was the stroke of an oar!
He strained his eyes to catch a view of the boat which he felt sure was traversing the lake.
After some time spent in the endeavour, his scrutiny was rewarded.
A strange tableau was revealed to him.