They sought for
egress from this place where their bodies moved, explanation of this
material labyrinth. But they did not seek explanation of this mood,
fallen among pride and anger, wrong and revenge. It came from at
large, with the power of largeness. They were back, "for the moment,"
in a simplicity of ancient, firm companionship.
They spoke scarcely at all. It had been a habit of old, in their much
adventuring together, to do so in long silences. Alexander had set the
pace there, Ian learning to follow.... It was as if this were an
adventure of, say, five years ago, and it was as if it were a dream
adventure. Or it was as if some part of themselves, quietly and with a
hidden will separating itself, had sailed away from the huge storm and
cloud and red lightnings.... What they did say had wholly and only to
do with immediate exigencies. Behind, in pure feeling, was the unity.
Down in this underground place the air began to come more freshly.
"Look at the flame," said Ian. "It is bending."
They had left behind rooms and passages lined with unbroken masonry.
Here were newer chambers and excavations, softer walled.
"They have been opening from this side. That was dug not so long ago."
Another minute and they came into a ragged, cavern-like space filled
with fresh night air. Presently they were forth upon a low hillside,
and at their feet Tiber mirrored the stars.
Pages:
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305