The spot had an additional interest for us because it was here that on the first trip the brush caught fire soon after the party had landed, and they were forced to take to the boats so unceremoniously that they lost part of their mess-kit and some clothing.
On leaving Alcove Brook we ran a rapid and then another a little farther on, but they were easy and the river was much calmer though the current was still very swift.

At the same time the walls to our satisfaction began to give indications of breaking.

They became less high, less compact, and we ventured to hope that our battle with the waters of Lodore was about over.

The Major said that, as nearly as he could remember, the end of the great gorge was not very far below.

Though the sky was beginning to show the evening tints we kept on and ever on, swiftly but smoothly, looking up at the sky and at the splendid walls.
The sun went down.