Had it been torn asunder by some stupendous explosion, it could not have presented a rougher or more chaotic aspect.

To look at it was like beholding the secret places of the earth.

The rocky walls were of different colors, yellow, blue, and red, in many shades and gradations.

They towered ruggedly upwards, sharply shadowed and brightly lighted, mounting in regular pinnacles, parting in black crevices; here and there vast masses hung poised on bases seemingly insufficient, ready to topple over on the unwary passer beneath.

A short distance to the northward the ravine had a turn, and a projecting promontory hid its further extreme from sight.