However, at last we got off, and went upon the uneven tenor of our way.

And so the hours passed till it was nearly three o'clock.

Sir Henry, Good, and Alphonse were asleep, utterly worn out; Umslopogaas was at the bow with the pole, and I was steering, when I perceived that the rate at which we were travelling had perceptibly increased.
Then, suddenly, I heard Umslopogaas make an exclamation, and next second came a sound as of parting branches, and I became aware that the canoe was being forced through hanging bushes or creepers.

Another minute, and the breath of sweet open air fanned my face, and I felt that we had emerged from the tunnel and were floating upon clear water.

I say felt, for I could see nothing, the darkness being absolutely pitchy, as it often is just before the dawn.