Others thought that they were sailing in a storm and gave orders for the handling of a ship, or else fell back in terror, perceiving Punic battalions in the clouds.

There were some who imagined themselves at a feast, and sang.
Many through a strange mania would repeat the same word or continually make the same gesture.

Then when they happened to raise their heads and look at one another they were choked with sobs on discovering the horrible ravages made in their faces.

Some had ceased to suffer, and to while away the hours told of the perils which they had escaped.
Death was certain and imminent to all.

How many times had they not tried to open up a passage! As to implore terms from the conqueror, by what means could they do so?
They did not even know where Hamilcar was.
The wind was blowing from the direction of the ravine.