As we drew nearer we saw that this was motionless, and less like vapor of water than vapor of light; it streamed in oddly fixed lines like atoms of crystals in a still solution.

Drake thrust an arm within it, waved it; the mist did not move.

It seemed instead to interpenetrate the arm--as though bone and flesh were spectral, without power to dislodge the shining particles from position.
We passed within it--side by side.
Instantly I knew that whatever these veils were, they were not moisture.
The air we breathed was dry, electric.

I was sensible of a decided stimulation, a pleasant tingling along every nerve, a gaiety almost light-headed.

We could see each other quite plainly, the rocky floor on which we trod as well.