TANITH After leaving the gardens Matho and Spendius found themselves checked by the rampart of Megara.

But they discovered a breach in the great wall and passed through.
The ground sloped downwards, forming a kind of very broad valley.

It was an exposed place.
"Listen," said Spendius, "and first of all fear nothing! I shall fulfil my promise--" He stopped abruptly, and seemed to reflect as though searching for words,--"Do you remember that time at sunrise when I showed Carthage to you on Salammbo's terrace?
We were strong that day, but you would listen to nothing!" Then in a grave voice: "Master, in the sanctuary of Tanith there is a mysterious veil, which fell from heaven and which covers the goddess." "I know," said Matho.
Spendius resumed: "It is itself divine, for it forms part of her.

The gods reside where their images are.

It is because Carthage possesses it that Carthage is powerful." Then leaning over to his ear: "I have brought you with me to carry it off!" Matho recoiled in horror.