The opposite shore appeared dark and gloomy in comparison, with great rock-crowned bluffs outlined against the sky, occasionally assuming grotesque forms, which the boatmen pointed out as familiar landmarks.
Once we narrowly escaped collision with a speeding Indian canoe, containing two frightened occupants, so intent upon saving themselves they never even glanced up until we had swept by.

Thockmorton laughed heartily at their desperate struggle in the swell, and several of the crew ran to the stern to watch the little cockle-shell toss about in the waves.

It was when I turned also, the better to assure myself of their safety, that I discovered Judge Beaucaire standing close beside me at the low rail.

Our eyes met inquiringly, and he bowed with all the ceremony of the old school.
"A new passenger on board, I think, sir," and his deep, resonant voice left a pleasant impression.

"You must have joined our company at Fort Armstrong ?" "Your supposition is correct," I answered, some peculiar constraint preventing me from referring to my military rank.