Sea fans and, sea plumes there were in endless variety, while outside, in the scorching heat, no sign of vegetation relieved the eye, inside was cool and beautiful with the luxuriance of the flora of the sea.

The sides of the cavern were filled with molusca--radiantly colored shells, sea urchins and innumerable specimens of marine life.

Along the pale green surfaces of shelving rocks, sea foxes, a fur bearing animal on that coast; bright, wicked little fellows, darted about, uttering shrill cries at the intrusion of the stranger as he drifted slowly back into their fairylike abode.

Paul felt as though he would like to have one of the little fellows and raised his carbine to shoot; but it seemed profanation to disturb the grand serenity and beauty of the scene.
The weapon was lowered and the animals allowed to play undisturbed.
The gig was backed slowly through the brilliant arches until the light became dim and the darkening recesses wore a gruesome look.

Thinking it unsafe to penetrate further the vast, unknown aisles, Paul rowed out of the yawning mouth after picking up many shells of every hue.
Next evening anchor was weighed and the sloop headed for Pachacamac.