It looked there like a network of liquid threads which doubtless reached the river by some underground drain.

Sometimes a stream ran through the underwood, which they crossed without difficulty.

The opposite shore appeared to be more uneven, and the valley of which the river occupied the bottom was more clearly visible.

The hill, covered with trees disposed in terraces, intercepted the view.

On the right bank walking would have been difficult, for the declivities fell suddenly, and the trees bending over the water were only sustained by the strength of their roots.
It is needless to add that this forest, as well as the coast already surveyed, was destitute of any sign of human life.