Water obviously had risen high in the cavern from the hurricane and the ensuing rains, but many places on higher levels remained dry and unaffected by the underground river. Large, long spires of rock reached to the ceiling of the cave, others started at the roof and sought the cave's floor. Water seemed to drip from all parts of the cavern. Moving farther into the cave, his men guided him to a high plateau, which was above any previously marked water level. They carefully climbed to the higher level and were immediately confronted with an immense level expanse of perfectly dry sand and rocks. The area was free of the dripping water and spires. Large boulders dotted the top. A perfect place for the treasure! The large stones could be cut from their root entanglements, the rocks rolled back to cover the opening of the cavern and no one would ever find the natural hiding place. The treasure could be picked up at any time, especially if their pirating ran into hard times.