He was able to count his comrades sleeping on the floor.

He saw two empty picture frames on the wall, and, near by, a rope, which he surmised led to the bell in the cupola, and which some chance had allowed to remain there.

Now and then Ned and one of his comrades of the watch met and exchanged a few words, but they always spoke in whispers, lest they awaken the sleeping men.
After these brief meetings Ned would return to his watch at the opening.
The character of the night did not change as time trailed its slow length away.

One solid black cloud covered the sky from horizon to horizon.

The wind out of the southwest never ceased to moan, and the cold rain blew steadily upon the walls and roof of the ruined convent.