Prologue
Hudson introduces us to Mr. Able through a fictional British narrator.  Mr. Abel, the one-time Amazonian adventurer, comes to Georgetown to live out the remainder of his life.  In order to maintain his friendship with the narrator, Abel decides to "open the shut and clasped volume" of his escapades.

Chapters 1-2
7-10
Mr. Abel tells the story of his adventure.  He describes the people of Venezuela and how they are repressed by the government.  Having been involved in an unsuccessful revolt, Abel flees the country in order to save his life.  He travels into the interior of the Amazon, trading with the Indians as he goes.  He contracts Malaria while in Manapuri.

11-12
Abel must travel to a new village in a weak and sickly condition.  He regains his strength as he arrives at his destination.  He is now becoming bored with the "savage life" and seeks a new adventure.  He owns what he can wear and carry, and nothing else.

Mr. Abel observes the Indian's necklaces, especially those of gold.  He learns that Indians from a certain village wear these trinkets--in Parahuari. He embarks on a journey, struggling as he goes with the Guayana tribes.  He arrives at his destination, but there is no gold.

Hudson  introduces the community members of the mountain village.  He describes Cla-cla and Kua-ko.  Mr. Abel reflects on his enjoyment of crafting a guitar, signing and playing.  Abel takes a long walk, exploring the savannah.

Chapter 3
Mr. Abel bribes Kua-Ko to escort him into the forest in hopes of identifying the mysterious voice.  After some time, a terror stricken Kua-ko takes off running, Abel following closely behind him.  Abel is "caught in a creeper" and falls to the ground.  He hears the voice; now it sounds angry, but later it calms and leads him to a clearing.  Though frightened, Abel gains his senses and eventurally perceives a hoard of roaring araguatos, or "howling monkeys."  He then returns to the village.