The snakes , whose venomous natures could not altogether sleep , kept twisting themselves over the forehead . It was the fiercest and most horrible face that ever was seen or imagined , and yet with a strange , fearful , and savage kind of beauty in it . The eyes were closed , and the Gorgon was still in a deep slumber ; but there was an unquiet expression disturbing her features , as if the monster was troubled with an ugly dream . 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 , XXXXX the snakes still writhing upon it , and thrust it in .
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