It was faint and dim, a promise more than a realization of approaching day, yet already sufficient to afford me view of the shore at our right, and to reveal the outlines of a sharp point of land ahead jutting into the stream.

The mist rising from off the water in vaporous clouds obscured all else, rendering the scene weird and unfamiliar.

It was, indeed, a desolate view, the near-by land low, and without verdure, in many places overflowed, and the river itself sullen and angry.

Only that distant point appeared clearly defined and real, with the slowly brightening sky beyond.

I endeavored to arouse myself from stupor, rubbing the sleep from my eyes.