Nothing was now visible from it but the dim, uncertain outline of the palaces above, and the mass, so sunk in obscurity that it looked like a dark layer of mist itself, of the rifted fortifications.

A smile of exultation passed over the Pagan's countenance, as he perceived the shrouding and welcome thickness of the atmosphere.

Groping his way softly through the thickets, he arrived at the base of the wall.

For some time he passed slowly along it, feeling the width of the different rents wherever he could stretch his hand.

At length he paused at one more extensive than the rest, drew from its concealment in his garments a thick bar of iron sharpened at one end, and began to labour at the breach.
Chance had led him to the place best adapted to his purpose.