Jack and I, with Uncle Tom, descended, as we were told that the boat could not carry a larger fare.  After looking down for a few seconds, we distinguished a light; and going down the ladder, we stepped into a boat, in which a man, whom we of course denominated Charon, was seated. Instead of oars, he used a long pole to urge on the boat.  We noticed the dark appearance of the water as we made our way through the vaulted chambers.  We now found ourselves floating on a lake, the water black as ink, but perfectly smooth.  Above our heads was a lofty and extensive dome; but the sides were invisible.  Charon ferried us across, and landed us on a smooth sandy shore, along which we proceeded for a considerable distance through a succession of caverns, until we arrived at a small circular chamber where they appeared to terminate.