But the bank was not without some obstacles: here, the flexible branches of the trees bent level with the current; there, creepers and thorns which they had to break down with their sticks.

Herbert often glided among the broken stumps with the agility of a young cat, and disappeared in the underwood.

But Pencroft called him back directly, begging him not to wander away.

Meanwhile, the sailor attentively observed the disposition and nature of the surrounding country.

On the left bank, the ground, which was flat and marshy, rose imperceptibly towards the interior.