Sifted sand filled each corner and crevice.
In the center of the ruins rose the turquoise column. From this,
and in a line with the true east to where the boys stood, extended
an open approach. Almost reverently Ned and Alan advanced up this
walk.
It was easily seen that the structure had contained a maze of
rooms--over three hundred, they afterwards discovered--and that the
white column stood in a hollow square.
"It's white," almost whispered Alan.
"Yes," answered Ned; "it ought to be blue."
They were now at the foot of the column. Directly in front stood an
opening or door. Bordering this was a framework of brick-like
squares or tiles, black, and ornamented with white figures.
"Just like pottery," said Alan, noticing the true geometrical design
and the still cruder outlines of animals.
"Look," exclaimed Ned, pointing to the top of the door.
Here, the small tiles were replaced with a large square of black
tile, in the center of which shone a dull yellow radiating design.
"A symbol of the sun," explained Alan, "and of gold!" he added
excitedly.
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