He had been over them with chart, compass, and pilot, many times before he adventured for himself.

But now, with a richly freighted argosy, he was on an unknown sea.

Pleasantly the summer breeze had wafted him onward for a season.

Spice-islands were passed, and golden shores revealed themselves invitingly in the distance.

The haven was almost gained, when along the far horizon dusky vapours gathered and hid the pleasant land.