Near the top of each was the entrance--a hole not much larger than would have been used by a rat.

There was no grass immediately around this hole, although the sides and tops of the mounds were clothed with a smooth green turf that gave them the appearance of having been constructed a long time ago.
The inhabitants of these singular dwellings soon began to show themselves.

They had been terrified by the thundering tread of the steeds, and had hidden at their approach.

All was now silent again, and they thought they might venture abroad.

First one little snout peeped out, and then another, and another until every hole had a head and a pair of sparkling eyes looking forth.