VICTOR EMMANUEL ISLAND 
we came to an ideal triangular island, 1,200 metres long, 
200 metres wide at its broadest point, with the usual ex¬ 
tensive gravel spit at its southern end, Victor Emmanuel 
Island. The vegetation upon it was too gorgeous for 
words, but there was no animal life except insects. 
Four kilometres farther a basin 300 metres in diameter 
and from one to six feet deep was crossed, in which a 
strong corrideira was met. The navigable channel was in 
the centre of the basin. A stream ten metres wide, of 
most beautiful crystalline water, which had its origin 
from the southwest, threw itself into the Arinos on the 
left side, some 2,000 metres below the basin. 
From this point for eight kilometres the river flowed 
with a slight deviation of 10° in a northerly direction. 
The left bank of the river was now quite open, with 
patches of chapada and somewhat taller but still stunted 
vegetation beyond; a thin row of tall trees lined the river 
side. On the right bank was luxuriant forest, and again 
plenty of beautiful rubber trees. Two islets of gravel 
were next seen. 
We were experiencing great difficulty in finding 
suitable camping places at the right time when we needed 
them. By 4.30, having come across a spot which seemed 
suitable, we halted, having gone that day 85 kilometres 
700 metres. 
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