From here, the trail descended rapidly over surfaces of slippery stone and patches of mud; the air was heavier and heavier with moisture.

Ferns abounded, and presently great tree ferns were to be seen, here and there, in all directions.

Shortly, our road was through a true gorge, where the footing for the horses was precarious.

Great masses of lycopods of several species covered the rocks and little round tufts of a dark green plant with feathery foliage dotted the decaying tree trunks.

The descent seemed endless, and for more than two hours we descended deeper and deeper into the dampness and darkness.