I now proceeded with greater wariness and caution.

I had lost all distinct notions of my way.

My motions were at random.

All my labour was to shun obstructions and to advance whenever the vacuity would permit.

By this means, the entrance was at length found, and, after various efforts, I arrived, beyond my hopes, at the foot of the staircase.
I ascended, but quickly encountered an insuperable impediment.