The passageway was almost in the shape of a letter V, with irregular sides.
In the shelter of the great crags, the speed of the "Dauntless" was considerably checked, indeed, within the channel, she was almost becalmed.
"Think of trying to climb that cliff, Chubby," exclaimed Sam Randall, glancing aloft. "Whew, wouldn't it be awful?"
"Makes me nervous to think of it, even," broke in Tommy Clifton.
"I can show you a way to reach the top without danger," laughed Fenton. "From there, you get a good view of Canyon River."
In a short time the "Dauntless" swung around a point.
On this side, the character of the island was different. In parts there were rocky cliffs, while elsewhere thickly-wooded slopes led upward. They were steep, but easily climbed.
Now and then they passed picturesque coves and wooded points, and the newcomers were thoroughly charmed.
"Hello, I see a boat!" exclaimed Bob, suddenly.
"And by the flying partridge, the smoke of a camp-fire," laughed Dave.