ten in the morning
The hull of the Nautilus , resembling a long shoal , disappeared by degrees ; but its lantern , when darkness should overtake us in the waters , would help to guide us on board by its distinct rays . Soon forms of objects outlined in the distance were discernible . I recognised magnificent rocks , hung with a tapestry of zoophytes of the most beautiful kind , and I was at first struck by the peculiar effect of this medium . It was then ten in the morning ; the rays of the sun struck the surface of the waves at rather an oblique angle , and at the touch of their light , decomposed by refraction as through a prism , flowers , rocks , plants , shells , and polypi were shaded at the edges by the seven solar colours . It was marvellous , a feast for the eyes , this complication of coloured tints , a perfect kaleidoscope of green , yellow , orange , violet , indigo , and blue ; in one word , the whole palette of an enthusiastic colourist ! Why could I not communicate to Conseil the lively sensations which were mounting to my brain , and rival him in expressions of admiration ? For aught I knew , Captain Nemo and his companion might be able to exchange thoughts by means of signs previously agreed upon .