We say _roots_ advisedly, for this singular and gigantic tree started its branches from a complexity of aerial roots which themselves formed a pyramid some sixty feet high, before the branches proper of the tree began.
If our voyagers had used oars the sharp ears of the pirates would have instantly detected them.

As it was, the softly moving paddles and the sharp cutwater of the canoe made no noise whatever.

The instant that Van der Kemp, from his position in the bow, observed the camp, he dipped his paddle deep, and noiselessly backed water.

There was no need to give any signal to his servant.

Such a thorough understanding existed between them that the mere action of the hermit was sufficient to induce the negro to support him by a similar movement on the opposite side, and the canoe glided as quickly backward as it had previously advanced.