For a time I believe I was indeed mad--the echoes rang with the piercing shrieks I could not restrain! Silent at last through sneer exhaustion I glared about me.
The moonbeam had vanished, in its place lay a shaft of pale gray light, by which I could easily distinguish the whole length of the staircase and the closed gateway it its summit.

I rushed up the ascent with the feverish haste of a madman--I grasped the iron grating with both hands and shook it fiercely It was firm as a rock, locked fast.

I called for help.

Utter silence answered me.

I peered through the closely twisted bars.