TANITH

After leaving the gardens Matho and Spendius found themselves checked
by the rampart of Megara. But they discovered a breach in the great wall
and passed through.

The ground sloped downwards, forming a kind of very broad valley. It was
an exposed place.

"Listen," said Spendius, "and first of all fear nothing! I shall fulfil
my promise--"

He stopped abruptly, and seemed to reflect as though searching for
words,--"Do you remember that time at sunrise when I showed Carthage to
you on Salammbo's terrace? We were strong that day, but you would listen
to nothing!" Then in a grave voice: "Master, in the sanctuary of Tanith
there is a mysterious veil, which fell from heaven and which covers the
goddess."

"I know," said Matho.

Spendius resumed: "It is itself divine, for it forms part of her. The
gods reside where their images are. It is because Carthage possesses
it that Carthage is powerful." Then leaning over to his ear: "I have
brought you with me to carry it off!"

Matho recoiled in horror. "Begone! look for some one else! I will not
help you in this execrable crime!"