For a moment I hesitated, asking myself for what
purpose we hastened on thus into the very arms of our enemies;
then, propelled by instinct or premonition--I know not what--I
took a firmer grasp on my spear and followed Harry without word,
throwing caution to the winds.
Yet we avoided foolhardiness, for as we approached the last turn
we proceeded slowly, keeping an eye on the rear. But all the
Incas appeared to have assembled within, for the corridor
remained deserted.
We crept silently to the corner, avoiding the circle of light as
far as possible, and, crouching side by side on the rock, looked
out together on a scene none the less striking because we had
seen it twice before.
It was the great cavern. We saw it from a different viewpoint
than before; the alcove which held the golden throne was far off
to our left, nearly half-way round the vast circumference. On the
throne was seated the king, surrounded by guards and attendants.
As before, the stone seats which surrounded the amphitheater on
every side were filled with the Incas, crouching motionless and
silent. The flames in the massive urns mounted in steady tongues,
casting their blinding glare in every direction.
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