The officer then asked him if he desired anything and Paul informed him that he was badly in need of provisions and some oil for his lamp.

He had missed the little light on the head of the Irene during the long, lonely nights on the river.
"There is a village a couple of miles below," said the officer, "and if you will slack up a little, I will run ahead and have all you need by the time you come opposite." The pontoneer's boat shot away and Paul followed quietly after them.
When he arrived off the village, the boat again pulled out into the stream with not only the supplies desired, but a most excellent meal, consisting of boiled eggs and other nutritious edibles, along with a bottle of fine old Barolo, the sparkling red wine of that country.
While eating the food, Paul, with the boat alongside, drifted slowly with the current and during that time, he ascertained that the young officer, who had manifested so much interest in him, was the son of General Pescetta, Minister of Marine.

Shortly before being overtaken by the friendly Italian, Boyton was beginning to feel terribly fatigued and had serious thoughts of throwing up the trip; but under the influence of the hearty meal and the invigorating wine, his courage was renewed and he felt he could easily complete the journey.

All that day he passed through lonely and miserable looking country.

Swampy lands and rice fields bordered either side of the river.