midday
Birds were shot such as were excellent eating , and twice over Shaddy brought down iguanas , which , though looked upon with distrust by the travellers , were welcomed by the boatmen , who were loud in their praise . It was a dream-like existence , and wonderfully restful to the lads who had passed through so many troubles , while the boat presented an appearance , with its load of drying specimens , strongly suggestive of there being very little room for more . They had literally climbed a long rapid one morning , and entered a broad reach of the river which resembled a lake in its extent . The water here was smooth , and had a current that was barely perceptible , hence their progress was swift , and as they were rowing round a bend the question arose where they should halt for the midday rest , when suddenly an ejaculation escaped from their guide 's lips , and the men ceased pulling , leaving the boat to drift slowly on over the glowing mirror-like surface , which was as if of polished steel . `` What is it , Shaddy ? '' cried Rob quickly . `` Are we going wrong ? ''