Page:Ling-Nam; or, Interior views of southern China, including explorations in the hitherto untraversed island of Hainan (IA cu31924023225307).pdf/170

 166 Ling-Nan.

air strike against the face. Descending about twenty-five feet, we reach the floor of the cave. A feeling of awe and reverence comes over us as we look at the massive pillars exquisitely fashioned without the aid of human skill, and through the lofty archway in the wall that separates the outer from the inner section, catch glimpses of the white and glistening ornaments that rise from the floor, hang from the roof, and drape the sides in every direction. The idea of a grand cathedral is naturally suggested by the shape and ornamentation, The height is about one hundred feet, and the depth from the opening to the farthest pomt yet explored is about one hundred yards, the width being somewhat less, In the outer section, into which the strong light from the entrance shines, the forms of beauty remain, but the action of the light has discoloured them, aud destroyed much of their attractiveness.

Crossing a stream of transparent water, we euter the inner section, torch in hand, pausing at every step to admire the wonders that reveal themselves on every hand. As the eyes become accustomed to the subdued light, the torch becomes superfluous, except when used in exploring the innermost recesses, or in descending the cavernous depths that yawn beneath us in the eastern part. Ascending the marble slopes, that rise gradually until the inner wall is reached, we find a convenient seat to rest upon, and observe at leisure the profusion of beauty spread around. All is of virgin whiteness, the hue of the snowdrift. Looking above, we see immense stalactites twenty and thirty feet long, hanging pendant from the roof like great icicles; and from the