Torch in hand I instantly crept forward.

I found myself in what was little more than the merest cell, yet dimly illumined by a single beam of light streaming downward as if penetrating through some slight crevice in the rock.

The narrow hole, for it was hardly more, was bare of all furnishing; both walls and floor were damp, but there were remnants of coarse food and a pannikin of water.
Its sole occupant sat cross-legged on the hard floor, bound about the waist with a band of metal.

One end of this was attached to the wall in such a manner that the prisoner could neither rise to his feet nor lie down.

Never have these wandering eyes of mine looked upon a figure more pathetic.