44, THE GEYSERS OF PLUTON RIVER, 
From this point is a fine view of the chasm or 
gorge, with the little stream at the bottom, and the © 
jets of steam spouting from its sides. The projecting 
rock, near which I took the first sketch, is seen at the 
head of the gorge, and in the centre of the picture. 
Close upon the decomposed rock appears the luxuriant 
vegetation; while the mountain, towering far above all, 
forms the background. 
The decomposed rocks, of which I have so often 
spoken, are in general of a whitish cast, curiously 
interspersed with spots of every hue. I noticed many 
patches of deep red, and some of light yellow and 
green; while here and there were others of black, 
brown, and slate color. 
Having completed my sketches, we hastened back 
to the place where we had left our animals. Here we 
threw ourselves on the grass in a deep grove near the 
bank of the mountain torrent, to await the return of 
Dr. Webb, Mr. Thurber, and MacDonald. At the 
same time I sent my servant ahead to our place of 
encampment to build a fire, put on a kettle of water, 
and make other preparations for dinner. Within half 
an hour our friends made their appearance, when we 
mounted our nags, recrossed the river, and, after a 
little hard tugging up the mountain, reached our 
camp fire in safety, delighted with the adventures of 
the day. 
I am not aware that this interesting spot has been 
visited by any man of science, except Professor Shep- 
herd, of Western Reserve College, Ohio; and a 
his experience and profession better fitted him for 
investigations in such phenomena than mine, I quote 4 
