But _would_ it
come to the same point again on the morrow? I knew it could not, and
that the least deflection from its course that day would allow no ray
to fall into the darkness of that mysterious dungeon. I knew, further,
that it was either morning or evening, about nine or three o'clock, by
the direction of the beam of light. This fact was immensely
encouraging; my heart throbbed rapidly; the blood came tingling to the
finger-ends; I felt a warmth, an energy, a hope, an animation of
spirits I had not known for a long time. It had all along been but one
unending night, when often I would wonder whether, outside, under the
broad blue sky, it was then night or day; but now I knew that it was
day.
I soon reached the passage which I had seen ahead of me, and found it
in some places not more than two or three feet wide. The ascent became
steeper, though not at all difficult, except at one place, where for
about ten yards I was obliged to use both hands and feet to make sure
of not slipping back.
About two hours after passing this point the air seemed to change;
there was a warmth and fragrance to it which was very grateful; I
fancied also that I could see somewhat indistinctly.
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