Roy Rockwood

“ The rock on which he was standing was a narrow, barren peak, which just rose above the surface, and that was all.
The remainder of the ledge was under water. If he had not ascended in that place he must have died.
Afar off was what appeared to be a small island. But whether it was an arid desert or not he was unable to tell.
"Perhaps I shall die of hunger and thirst," he muttered; "but death is better here than in the forest under the sea." ”

“ The sleepy feeling overtook him again, and he leaned back against the shining rock, which reflected the sun's rays.
He was face to face with death.
Not much longer would his lungs be supplied with breathing air.
Suffocation threatened Mont with a painful end, yet he was so weak and prostrate that he seemed unable to make another effort.
Every moment was of priceless value. ”

“ To him, in his condition, air was life.
He knew that he had only a supply for a limited period.
The only course that remained open to him was to march as quickly as the dense mass of water would let him, and try to regain the Searcher. ”