The mighty throes of nature appeared at length calmed--the roaring noise had ceased; but the wailing of the bereaved inhabitants, and the shrieks and groans of the dying, filled the air. Two elements had already conspired to the destruction of that once opulent and crowded city; but even yet the spirit of destruction was not satisfied, and scarcely had the survivors begun to recover from their first unnerving panic, when a new foe appeared, and flames rose from every fallen shrine and monastery, and from many of the houses yet standing. So paralysed had become the energies of all, that no one attempted to stop the rapid progress of the devouring element. It at first commenced in different spots, like so many watch-fires lighted by an army encamped on the plain, but, by degrees, it extended on every side, till the greater part of the city was enveloped in one vast conflagration. "Whither can we fly for safety?" cried several of the party, gazing at each other with horror on their countenances. "At all events, let us quit this devoted city," all exclaimed. "But is there a road yet left free?" asked some. "We must not remain here to be burned alive, having escaped the other dangers," said the young Marquis of Tavora. "My Theresa, I swear to bear you safe, or die with you." The bride hesitated, but her husband insisted on supporting her. "Now, senhores, I will set the example, if you will follow; and we may find some of our country-houses uninjured." His opinion was considered the best to follow by the majority. "I will order my horses and carriage from my palace," said the Duke of Aveiro; but, when he looked towards his palace, he beheld it one heap of ruins: the proud residence of the Tavoras had shared the same fate, as had those of many other persons present. The palace of the King, which he and all the royal family had, a few minutes before, so providentially quitted, was overwhelmed in the common destruction; and the Opera-house, a solid and magnificent building, a short time before only finished, had shared the same fate, the side walls remaining alone standing. But this was no time for vain regrets: self-preservation was the first thought of all. The advice of the young marquis was followed, and each of the gentlemen aiding in supporting the ladies, they issued forth from the palace, already deserted by the greater number of the servants, the remainder following them, without leaving one to protect the rich and costly furniture, or even thinking of closing the doors behind them.