Windows there were
none. The sole light admitted into the gloomy chamber proceeded from a
square opening, about a foot in diameter, at a height of about seven
feet from the floor. Yet what will the energy of true genius not
effect? I resolved to clamber up to this hole. A vast quantity of
wheels, pinions, and other cabalistic- looking machinery stood
opposite the hole, close to it; and through the hole there passed an
iron rod from the machinery. Between the wheels and the wall where the
hole lay there was barely room for my body- yet I was desperate, and
determined to persevere. I called Pompey to my side.
"You perceive that aperture, Pompey. I wish to look through it.
You will stand here just beneath the hole- so. Now, hold out one of
your hands, Pompey, and let me step upon it- thus. Now, the other
hand, Pompey, and with its aid I will get upon your shoulders."
He did every thing I wished, and I found, upon getting up, that I
could easily pass my head and neck through the aperture. The
prospect was sublime. Nothing could be more magnificent. I merely
paused a moment to bid Diana behave herself, and assure Pompey that
I would be considerate and bear as lightly as possible upon his
shoulders. I told him I would be tender of his feelings- ossi tender
que beefsteak. Having done this justice to my faithful friend, I
gave myself up with great zest and enthusiasm to the enjoyment of
the scene which so obligingly spread itself out before my eyes.
Pages:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15