The definiteness of these and other leaf masses first surprised and then discomposed me: what if they should overpower my brain with seeming reality?
But the twilight became darkness; the wind ceased; every shape was shut up in the night; I fell asleep.
It was still dark when I began to be aware of a far-off, confused, rushing noise, mingled with faint cries.

It grew and grew until a tumult as of gathering multitudes filled the wood.

On all sides at once the sounds drew nearer; the spot where I lay seemed the centre of a commotion that extended throughout the forest.

I scarce moved hand or foot lest I should betray my presence to hostile things.
The moon at length approached the forest, and came slowly into it: with her first gleam the noises increased to a deafening uproar, and I began to see dim shapes about me.

As she ascended and grew brighter, the noises became yet louder, and the shapes clearer.