had no other outlet; somewhat might present itself within to the eyes which might for ever elude the hands: but I was more inclined to consider it merely as an avenue, terminating in an opening on the summit of the steep, or on the opposite side of the ridge. Caution might supply the place of light; or, having explored the cave as far as possible at present, I might hereafter return better furnished for the scrutiny.
CHAPTER X.
With these determinations, I proceeded. The entrance was low, and compelled me to resort to hands as well as feet. At a few yards from the mouth the light disappeared, and I found myself immersed in the dunnest obscurity: had I not been persuaded that another had gone before me, I should have relinquished the attempt. I proceeded with the utmost caution, always ascertaining, by out-stretched arms, the height and breadth of the cavity before me. In a short time the dimensions expanded on all sides, and permitted me to resume my feet.
I walked upon a smooth and gentle declivity. Presently the wall, on one side, and the ceiling receded beyond my reach. I began to fear that I should be involved in a maze, and should be disabled from returning. To obviate this danger it was requisite to adhere to the nearest wall, and conform to the direction which it should take, without straying through the palpable obscurity. Whether the ceiling was lofty or low, whether the opposite wall of the passage was distant or near, this I deemed no proper opportunity to investigate.
In a short time my progress was stopped by an abrupt descent. I set down the advancing foot with caution, being aware that I might, at the next step, encounter a bottomless' pit. To the brink of such a one I seemed now to have arrived; I stooped, and stretched my hand forward and downward, but all was vacuity.
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