BATHYBIA.
in our minds regarding the future source of our water supply. After traversing several shallow lakes, the matter became critical and we decided to moor up to the bank. The neighbouring country was almost deserted compared with the jungle left behind. The saline soil supported only stunted vegetation, except for occasional clumps of mushroom-like fungi standing on local elevations of the ground. We were some distance from camp, making a reconnaissance, when a heavy rain storm commenced. Perfect shelter was obtained beneath the umbrellas of the fungi. As time went on, however, and the downpour did not abate, we grew anxious for the safety of our commissariat. Shortly afterwards, we might have been seen marching back to camp each sheltered under one of these novel umbrellas. The adjacent country already showed signs of flooding; it was, therefore, deemed best to pack our gear and remove it to one of the elevations. The waters continued to rise even after the rain ceased, so that our position was again threatened. We were now thoroughly alarmed, and hastily transferred our possessions to a flotilla of queer craft, consisting of fifteen large mushroom shaped fungi set in the floating position, and lashed together with alpine rope. Hardly had these preparations been completed, than the lapping waters
