I was wholly unacquainted with the river.

The bar by which it was encumbered I knew to exist, but in what direction and to what extent it existed, and how it might be avoided in the present state of the tide, I knew not.

It was probable, therefore, unknowing as I was of the proper track, that our boat would speedily have grounded.
My attention, meanwhile, was fixed upon the oar.

My companion sat at the prow, and was in a considerable degree unnoticed.

I cast my eyes occasionally at the scene which I had left.