At last, as Shotaye did not return, Zashue stealthily arose, removed one of the heavy grinding-plates from its frame, and placed it across the mouth of the gangway.

Then he stretched himself at full length on the floor with his back leaning against the slab.

Hayoue watched him and chuckled.
The light of the torch shone through the space which the slab could not cover; the mistress of the cave was coming back.

Very soon however the light disappeared and all grew silent.

The firebrand had been extinguished; the woman was inside, but kept perfectly still, giving no signs of impatience or disappointment.