The whole town had fled to that huge log stronghold for protection.
Buildings and trees shut out his view seaward but he could see the flare of great fires mounting into the sky and he knew that those who were not at the temple were guarding the shore.
Suddenly he almost fell over a figure in his path.

It was an old woman mumbling and sobbing incoherently as she stumbled weakly in the direction of the temple.

Like an inspiration the thought came to him that here was his opportunity of gaining admittance to that multitude of women and children.

He seized the old woman by the arm and spoke words of courage to her as he half carried her on her way.

A few minutes more and a blaze of light burst upon them and the great square in which the temple was situated lay open before them.