She gnashed her white tusks , and dug into the sand with her brazen claws . The snakes , too , seemed to feel Medusa 's dream , and to be made more restless by it . They twined themselves into tumultuous knots , writhed fiercely , and uplifted a hundred hissing heads , without opening their eyes . `` Now , now ! '' whispered Quicksilver , who was growing impatient . `` Make a dash at the monster ! '' `` But be calm , '' said the grave , melodious voice , at the young man 's side . `` Look in your shield , as you fly downward , and take care that you do not miss your first stroke . '' Perseus flew cautiously downward , still keeping his eyes on Medusa 's face , as reflected in his shield . The nearer he came , the more terrible did the snaky visage and metallic body of the monster grow . At last , when he found himself hovering over her within arm 's length , Perseus uplifted his sword , while , at the same instant , each separate snake upon the Gorgon 's head stretched threateningly upward , and Medusa unclosed her eyes . But she awoke too late . The sword was sharp ; the stroke fell like a lightning-flash ; and the head of the wicked Medusa tumbled from her body ! `` Admirably done ! '' cried Quicksilver . `` Make haste , and clap the head into your magic wallet . '' To the astonishment of Perseus , the small , embroidered wallet , which he had hung about his neck , and which had hitherto been no bigger than a purse , grew all at once large enough to contain Medusa 's head . As quick as thought , he snatched it up , with the snakes still writhing upon it , and thrust it in . `` Your task is done , '' said the calm voice . `` Now fly ; for the other Gorgons will do their utmost to take vengeance for Medusa 's death . ''
It was , indeed , necessary to take flight ; XXXXX Perseus had not done the deed so quietly , but that the clash of his sword , and the hissing of the snakes , and the thump of Medusa 's head as it tumbled upon the sea-beaten sand , awoke the other two monsters .
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