He had marked its base too clearly in his mind to make any mistake, and he advanced with certainty.

He came presently into an open space, and he stopped with amazement.

Around him were the stumps of a clearing made recently, and near him were some yards of rough rail fence.
He crouched against the fence, and saw on the far side of the clearing the dim outlines of several buildings, from the chimneys of two of which smoke was rising.

It was his first thought that he had come upon a little settlement still held by daring borderers, but second thought told him that it was impossible.

Another and more comprehensive look showed many signs of ruin.