He knew that in this part of the Bornean coast months often pass without a single shower of rain; and if no stream or spring should be found they would still be in danger of perishing by thirst.
They saw Saloo bend by the edge of the inlet, scoop up some water in his palms, and apply it to his lips, as if tasting it.

Only for an instant, when back to them came the joyful cry,-- "_Ayer! ayer manis! sungi_!" (Water! sweet water! A river!) Scarce more pleasantly, that morning at day-break, had fallen on their ears the cry of "Land!" than now fell the announcement of the Malay sailor, making known the proximity of water.

Captain Redwood, who was acquainted with the Malay language, translated the welcome words.

Sweet water, Saloo had described it.

Emphatically might it be so termed.
All hastened, or rather rushed, toward the stream, fell prostrate on their faces by its edge, and drank to a surfeit.