The blanket hung across the passage had acted as a muffler, to some extent; but a piece of cloth had always been tied over the hammer heads of the axes, to prevent the sharp clinking sounds of the blows on the chisels, or stone, being heard.
As soon as it was dark enough for them to pass along the ledge, Meinik went with Stanley to examine the ground.

Fortunately, the portion of stone that remained above the level, and prevented the rock from being rolled back, was but small; and they were able to break it up in half an hour, with the axes.

Then, making their way along without difficulty for another four feet, they found themselves standing upright in the depression in the centre of the ruin.

Mounting six more steps, they were among the bushes that covered the site of the temple.
They now carefully cleared away every fragment of stone from the floor of the passage and, returning, Stanley gave orders for the start to be made.

Two or three shots were fired, from the lower entrance, to show the enemy that they were there and on the watch; and then all went up to Harry's room.