The hatches of the saloon were open, and, as the beacon light of the Nautilus was not in action, a dim obscurity reigned in the midst of the waters.

I observed the state of the sea, under these conditions, and the largest fish appeared to me no more than scarcely defined shadows, when the Nautilus found herself suddenly transported into full light.

I thought at first that the beacon had been lighted, and was casting its electric radiance into the liquid mass.

I was mistaken, and after a rapid survey perceived my error.
The Nautilus floated in the midst of a phosphorescent bed which, in this obscurity, became quite dazzling.

It was produced by myriads of luminous animalculae, whose brilliancy was increased as they glided over the metallic hull of the vessel.