From a cleft in one rock in particular a mighty column of vapour whirled into the air.

On the windward side I could approach this place very closely.

The ground was only lukewarm in some places, and I could hold my hand for several moments to the gaps from which steam issued.

No trace of a crater was to be seen.

The bubbling and hissing of the steam, added to the noise of the wind, occasioned such a deafening clamour, that I was very glad to feel firmer ground beneath my feet, and to leave the place in haste.