72 LOSS OF THE HERCULES. 
as the eye traveled in pursuit of new beauties, it was most am- 
ply gratified, until at length the whole gradually faded on the 
view, and became lost on the horizon. They were so wrapt 
in ecstasy on this landscape, that they forgot their danger, 
and remained too long on the mountain. They at length de- 
scended, and proceeded on their journey. 
Before the day closed they fixed on a place where they 
were to remain until the morning. It was near a wood, most- 
ly composed of that kind of thorn already mentioned. Seve- 
ral of these they immediately cut, not only for the purpose of 
fuel, but to form a barricade or defence against the wild ani- 
mals during the night. 
After completing their fortification, lighting the fires, and 
supping in the best manner possible, they lay down to rest; 
but their sleep was constantly disturbed during the night by 
a herd of elephants brushing through the wood, passing and 
returning almost every moment. Had not the fence been 
erected the preceding evening, they would, in all probability, 
have been trampled to death by these monstrous animals. 
They had the good fortune however to escape : and about 
seven the next morning proceeded on their journey in com- 
pany with the guides. 
They traveled this day through a delightful country. The 
land in some places seemed to be composed of a red and 
yellow clay, and the valleys appeared covered with a very 
thick and long grass, but not a sign of agriculture was to be 
observed. In the course of the day they perceived a few de- 
serted huts, one of which they entered, but paid severely for 
their curiosity, as those who ventured in were in a moment 
entirely covered with fleas. 
Water was found sometimes, but it w^as brackish, although 
they were at least fifty miles from the sea. I'hey kept at this 
distance during the most of the journey. 
They brougiit up for the night, after traveling about thirty- 
five miles, at the skirt of a small forest, and provided fuel, 
with a temporary defience, as before. The provisions being 
nearly exliausted they were obliged to eat sparingly, although 
most of them were ravenously hungry. 
About seven in the morning they again set out ; but many 
of the people dropt astern in the course of the day, being al- 
most worn out with fatigue. In this situation it was thought 
advisable for such of the party as could travel, to get forward 
and provide a place where wood and water could be had. 
The captain was of this company ; and that all those who 
