Venters, however, had an irresistible desire to look upward at Balancing Rock.

It had always haunted him, and now he wondered if he were really to get through the outlet before the huge stone thundered down.

He fancied that would be a miracle.

Every few steps he answered to the strange, nervous fear and turned to make sure the rock still stood like a giant statue.

And, as he descended, it grew dimmer in his sight.