human
I feel within me the glow of the explorer who sees the mists veiling the bed of a mighty and unknown river, said Miss Anstrade, as she looked with kindling eyes over the low-lying country.
gpt
But the way seems so easy that a horrible doubt arises. Surely someone must have been before us.
human
What do you think, Webster?
gpt
It seems to me to be plain sailing; but no doubt a nearer view would open up reefs and difficulties.
human
Yes, difficulties enough. Now, see that belt of reeds looking like a ribbon for thickness: it must be three miles in width and saturated with water. It will need a struggle to get through. Then there is the mountain to climb, and a particular spot in it to find, and beyond that the dangers from those who are said to protect the Rock; but before we enter upon any of those tasks we have to reach that sheet of water, which must be some twenty miles off, and there we may be forced to abandon our waggon.
gpt
Why should we?--the country looks quiet enough.
human
Well, our party is too small to divide, and in anything we attempt we must keep together. As for the country being quiet, I can see smoke rising from three different kraals, and depend upon it, as soon as the people see us they will swarm round, ready to beg, steal, or fight.