towers

the window on the west 881
Frodo could have put an outstretched arm into it. It faced
westward. The level shafts of the setting sun behind beat
upon it, and the red light was broken into many flickering
beams of ever-changing colour. It was as if they stood at the
window of some elven-tower, curtained with threaded jewels
of silver and gold, and ruby, sapphire and amethyst, all
kindled with an unconsuming fire.
‘At least by good chance we came at the right hour to
reward you for your patience,’ said Faramir. ‘This is the
Window of the Sunset, Henneth Annûn, fairest of all the falls
of Ithilien, land of many fountains. Few strangers have ever
seen it. But there is no kingly hall behind to match it. Enter
now and see!’
Even as he spoke the sun sank, and the fire faded in the
flowing water. They turned and passed under the low forbidding
arch. At once they found themselves in a rock-chamber,
wide and rough, with an uneven stooping roof. A few torches
were kindled and cast a dim light on the glistening walls.
Many men were already there. Others were still coming in
by twos and threes through a dark narrow door on one side.
As their eyes grew accustomed to the gloom the hobbits saw
that the cave was larger than they had guessed and was filled
with great store of arms and victuals.
‘Well, here is our refuge,’ said Faramir. ‘Not a place of
great ease, but here you may pass the night in peace. It is dry
at least, and there is food, though no fire. At one time the
water flowed down through this cave and out of the arch, but
its course was changed further up the gorge, by workmen of
old, and the stream sent down in a fall of doubled height over
the rocks far above. All the ways into this grot were then
sealed against the entry of water or aught else, all save one.
There are now but two ways out: that passage yonder by
which you entered blindfold, and through the Windowcurtain
into a deep bowl filled with knives of stone. Now rest
a while, until the evening meal is set.’
* * *