Turning, he saw something that appeared to be neither bird, animal nor fish; but partaking something of the character of all three.

He had often heard of the existence of such creatures in the remote caverns, but had scarcely credited it.
Fishermen had spoken of them though few claimed to have ever seen one.
They are called ninas del maris-children of the sea.

He had heard they were gentle and affectionate in captivity but savage in their wild state.
He raised his gun to shoot; but on second thought concluded to try and capture it alive.

He made his way down the incline as rapidly as possible in order to cut the nina off from the water, knowing that it would not make its exit from the cave by the upper opening.

When he reached the bottom, a wonderful scene unfolded.