A Day with the Sea Urchins. 31

 

streaks where the currents flowed out to the open sea,
and the loveliest amethystine shadows lay beneath the
distant rocks.

On and on they went, sometimes diving deep under
the water, past brilliant anemonies opening like living
flowers, past seaweeds and corals growing like groves
of trees by the side of the way; past sun-fish and John
Dory, and skates which swam in and out amongst the
branches; and ugly little squids who ogled them with
big rolling eyes as they rode along. And then a large
fish was seen, at whose approach the whole company,
both horses and riders, showed signs of consternation,
and in an instant had all disappeared into various hiding-
places. It seemed to me that this was a very harmless
and quiet-looking giant to make such a commotion, but,
as it turned out, the Sea Urchins knew best.