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[12]Attracted by your campfire, they will assemble at the ends of the valley (привлеченные вашим лагерным костром, они соберутся на концах долины) and rush your camp at dawn (и набросятся на ваш лагерь на рассвете). It is their invariable procedure (это их неизменный метод / обычай).
false [fO: ls], rush [rAS], dawn [dO: n]
‘Lest you entertain false hopes of rescue by your men,’ Feng went on, ‘I have thought of that, also. In these hills dwell the Jagas, a primitive headhunting tribe. Attracted by your campfire, they will assemble at the ends of the valley and rush your camp at dawn. It is their invariable procedure.
‘By that time I shall, I hope, be far away (к тому времени /я/, надеюсь, буду далеко прочь = отсюда). If they capture me, too — well, a man must die some time, and I trust I shall do so with the dignity and decorum befitting one of my rank and culture (если они схватят меня тоже — хорошо = что ж, человек должен умереть когда-то, а я верю, /что/ /я/ сделаю это с достоинством и этикетом, приличествующим одному = человекумоего ранга и культуры). My head would make a delightful ornament in a Jaga hut, I am sure (моя голова стала бы очаровательным украшением в хижине джага, я уверен).
die [daI], trust [trAst], culture ['kAltSq]
‘By that time I shall, I hope, be far away. If they capture me, too — well, a man must die some time, and I trust I shall do so with the dignity and decorum befitting one of my rank and culture. My head would make a delightful ornament in a Jaga hut, I am sure.
‘And so, my good barbarian, farewell (итак, мой добрый варвар, прощай). You will forgive this person for turning his back upon you during your last moments (ты простишь эту = моюперсону за то, что /я/ повернусь к тебе спиной: «за поворачивание своей спиной на тебя» во время твоих последних мгновений). For your demise is a pity in a way, and I should not enjoy witnessing it (ибо твоя кончина печальный факт в какой-то мере; pity — жалость, печальный факт; in a way — в некотором отношении, в известном смысле, до известной степени). Had you had the advantages of a Khitan upbringing, you would have made an admirable servant (если бы ты имел преимущества кхитайского воспитания, ты стал бы замечательным слугой) — say, a bodyguard for me (скажем, телохранителем для меня). But things are as they are (но дела /такие/, как они есть = но дела обстоят так, /а не иначе/; thing — вещь, дело, факт, предмет).’
pity ['pItI], servant ['sq: vqnt], say [seI]
‘And so, my good barbarian, farewell. You will forgive this person for turning his back upon you during your last moments. For your demise is a pity in a way, and I should not enjoy witnessing it. Had you had the advantages of a Khitan upbringing, you would have made an admirable servant — say, a bodyguard for me. But things areas they are.’
After a mocking bow of farewell, the Khitan withdrew to the lower slope of the hill (после насмешливого прощального поклона кхитаец удалился к более низкому склону холма). Conan wondered if the Duke’s plan was to leave him trapped against the shaft until he perished of starvation and thirst (Конан хотел знать, ли план князя был оставить его = было ли в планах князя оставить егов ловушке у колонны, пока он /не/ погибнет от голода и жажды). If his men marked his absence before dawn, they might look for him (если его люди заметили бы его отсутствие до зари, они могли бы поискать его). But then, since he had stolen out of the camp without leaving word of his going (но тогда, так как он прокрался из лагеря без оставления слова = не сказаво своем уходе), they would not know whether to be alarmed by his absence (они не знали бы, тревожиться ли им из-за его отсутствия: «ли быть встревоженными». If he could only get word to them, they would scour the countryside for him (если бы он мог только передать им словечко, они бы прочесали местность ради него) and make short work of the treacherous little duke (и быстро разделались бы: «сделали короткую работу» с вероломным князьком). But how to get word (но как передать словечко = сообщить)?
slope [slqup], thirst [Tq: st], word [wq: d]
After a mocking bow of farewell, the Khitan withdrew to the lower slope of the hill. Conan wondered if the Duke’s plan was to leave him trapped against the shaft until he perished of starvation and thirst. If his men marked his absence before dawn, they might look for him. But then, since he had stolen out of the camp without leaving word of his going, they would not know whether to be alarmed by his absence. If he could only get word to them, they would scour the countryside for him and make short work of the treacherous little duke. But how to get word?
Again he threw his massive strength against the force that held him crushed against the column, but to no avail (снова он бросил свою большую силу против силы, которая держала его придавленным к колонне, но без никакой = какой- либопользы). He could move his lower legs and arms and even turn his head somewhat from side to side (он мог двигать нижними ногами и руками = нижними частями ног и руки даже вращать /своей/ головой немного из стороны в сторону). But his body was firmly gripped by the iron mail that clothed it (но его тело было крепко охвачено железной кольчугой, которая покрывала его).
threw [Tru: ], strength [streNT], iron ['aIqn]
Again he threw his massive strength against the force that held him crushed against the column, but to no avail. He could move his lower legs and arms and even turn his head somewhat from side to side. But his body was firmly gripped by the iron mail that clothed it.
Now the moon brightened (теперь луна прояснилась). Conan observed that, about his feet and elsewhere around the base of the monument, grisly remains of other victims were scattered (Конан заметил, что у его ног и в других местах вокруг основания памятника были разбросаны вызывающие ужас останки других жертв). Human bones and teeth were heaped like old rubbish (человеческие кости и зубы были свалены как старый мусор); he must have trodden upon them when the mysterious force pulled him up against the shaft (он, должно быть, наступил на них, когда таинственная сила притянула его к столбу; must have trodden — выражение вероятности события в прошлом с помощью модального глагола must (должно быть, наверное) — must + have + причастие прошедшего времени).
base [beIs], remains [rI'meInz], rubbish ['rAbIS]
Now the moon brightened. Conan observed that, about his feet and elsewhere around the base of the monument, grisly remains of other victims were scattered. Human bones and teeth were heaped like old rubbish; he must have trodden upon them when the mysterious force pulled him up against the shaft.
In the stronger light, Conan was disquieted to see that these remains were peculiarly discolored (в более сильном свете Конан был встревожен увидеть = увидев, что эти останки были необычно бледными). A closer look showed that the bones seemed to have been eaten away here and there (более пристальный взгляд показал, что кости, казалось, были объедены тут и там), as if some corrosive fluid had dissolved their smooth surfaces to expose the spongy structure beneath (как будто какая-то едкая жидкость растворила их гладкую поверхность, чтобы показать пористую структуру под /ней/).
eaten [i: tn], smooth [smu: D], structure ['strAktSq]
In the stronger light, Conan was disquieted to see that these remains were peculiarly discolored. A closer look showed that the bones seemed to have been eaten away here and there, as if some corrosive fluid had dissolved their smooth surfaces to expose the spongy structure beneath.
He turned his head from side to side, seeking some means of escape (он вертел головой из стороны в сторону, ища = в поискахкакого-нибудь средства /для/ побега). The words of the smooth-tongued Khitan seemed to be true (слова льстивого кхитайца казались /быть/ правдой, но теперь он мог разглядеть куски железа), but now he could discern pieces of iron held against the curiously stained and discolored stone of the column by the invisible force (удерживаемые на странно испачканном и обесцвеченном камне колонны невидимой силой). To his left he sighted the shovel, the crowbar, and the rusty bowl of a helmet (слева от него: «к его левому» он увидел лопату, лом и ржавую сферу шлема), while on the other side a time-eaten dagger was stuck against the stone (в то время как на другой стороне изъеденный временем кинжал был приклеен к камню). Yet once more he hurled his strength against this impalpable force… (/и/ все-таки еще раз он бросил свою силу против этой неосязаемой силы…)
escape [I'skeIp], means [mi: nz], true [tru:]
He turned his head from side to side, seeking some means of escape. The words of the smooth-tongued Khitan seemed to be true, but now he could discern pieces of iron held against the curiously stained and discolored stone of the column by the invisible force. To his left he sighted the shovel, the crowbar, and the rusty bowl of a helmet, while on the other side a time-eaten dagger was stuck against the stone. Yet once more he hurled his strength against this impalpable force…
From below sounded an eery piping sound — a mocking, maddening tune (снизу раздался зловещий звук свирели — насмешливый, сводящий с ума мотив). Straining his eyes through the fickle moonlight, Conan saw that Feng had not left the scene after all (напрягая свои глаза сквозь переменчивый свет луны, Конан увидел, что Фэн не покинул место действия, в конце концов). Instead, the duke was sitting on the grass on the side of the hill, near its base (вместо этого князь сидел на траве на краю холма, возле его основания). He had drawn a curious flute from his capacious garments and was playing upon it (он вытащил странную флейту из своих вместительных одежд и играл /на/ ней).
sound [saund], tune [tju: n], scene [si: n]
From below sounded an eery piping sound — a mocking, maddening tune. Straining his eyes through the fickle moonlight, Conan saw that Feng had not left the scene after all. Instead, the duke was sitting on the grass on the side of the hill, near its base. He had drawn a curious flute from his capacious garments and was playing upon it.
Through the shrill piping, a faint, squashy sound reached Conan’s ears (сквозь пронзительные звуки /флейты/ слабый чавкающий звук достиг ушей Конана). It seemed to come from above (он казался доноситься = казалось, доноситсясверху). The muscles of Conan’s bullneck stood out as he twisted his head to look upward (мускулы бычьей шеи Конана выступили, когда он повернул /свою/ голову, чтобы посмотреть вверх); the spired Turanian helmet grated against the stone as he moved (остроконечный туранский шлем заскрежетал /о/ камень, когда он зашевелился). Then the blood froze in his veins (затем кровь застыла в его венах; to freeze — замерзать, застывать, морозить).
faint [feInt], muscles [mAsklz], froze [frquz]
Through the shrill piping, a faint, squashy sound reached Conan’s ears. It seemed to come from above. The muscles of Conan’s bullneck stood out as he twisted his head to look upward; the spired Turanian helmet grated against the stone as he moved. Then the blood froze in his veins.
The mist that had obscured the top of die pylon was gone (дымка, которая затеняла вершину пилона, была ушедшей = пропала/исчезла/рассеялась). The rising half moon shone on and through an amorphous thing, which squatted obscenely on the summit of the column (поднимающийся полумесяц светил на и сквозь аморфное существо, которое сидело противно: «непристойно» = вызывая отвращениена вершине колонны). It was like a huge lump of quivering, semi- translucent jelly — and it lived (оно было подобно огромной глыбе подрагивающего полупрозрачного студня — и оно жило = было живым). Life — throbbing, bloated life — pulsed within it (жизнь — пульсирующая, распухшая жизнь — билась в нем). The moonlight glistened wetly upon it as it beat like a huge, living heart (лунный свет блестел мокро = отсвечивал мокрымна нем, когда оно билось, как огромное, живое сердце; to beat — бить(ся), ударить).
gone [gOn], jelly [GelI], translucent [txrnz'lu: snt]
The mist that had obscured the top of die pylon was gone. The rising half moon shone on and through an amorphous thing, which squatted obscenely on the summit of the column. It was like a huge lump of quivering, semi-translucent jelly — and it lived. Life — throbbing, bloated life — pulsed within it. The moonlight glistened wetly upon it as it beat like a huge, living heart.
As Conan, frozen with horror, watched, the dweller on the top of die monolith sent a trickle of jelly groping down the shaft toward him (когда Конан, застывший от ужаса, наблюдал, /как/ обитатель вершины монолита выпустил струйку желе, двигаясь ощупью вниз по столбу к нему). The slippery pseudopod slithered over the smooth surface of the stone (скользкий псевдопод/ложноножка скользнул через/по гладкой поверхности камня). Conan began to understand the source of the stains that discolored the face of the monolith (Конан начал понимать источник пятен, которые обесцветили лик монолита).
horror [hOrq], surface ['sq: fIs], source [sO: s]
As Conan, frozen with horror, watched, the dweller on the top of die monolith sent a trickle of jelly groping down the shaft toward him. The slippery pseudopod slithered over the smooth surface of the stone. Conan began to understand the source of the stains that discolored the face of the monolith.
The wind had changed (ветер переменился), and a vagrant down-draft wafted a sickening stench to Conan’s nostrils (и движущийся нисходящий поток воздуха донес тошнотворное зловоние до ноздрей Конана). Now he knew why the bones at the base of the shaft bore that oddly eaten appearance (теперь он знал, почему кости у основания колонны носили /на себе/ тот странно изъеденный вид). With a dread that almost unmanned him, he understood that the jellylike thing exuded a digestive fluid (со страхом, который почти лишил его мужества, он понял, что желеобразное существо испускала пищеварительную жидкость), by means of which it consumed its prey (посредством которой оно поглощало свою добычу). He wondered how many men, in ages past, had stood in his place (он спрашивал себя, сколько людей в прошедшие времена стояло на его месте), bound helplessly to the pillar and awaiting the searing caress of the abomination now descending toward him (прикованные беспомощно к столбу и ожидая жгучей ласки мерзости, теперь спускавшейся к нему).
dread [dred], fluid ['flu: Id], past [pQ: st]
The wind had changed, and a vagrant down-draft wafted a sickening stench to Conan’s nostrils. Now he knew why the bones at the base of the shaft bore that oddly eaten appearance. With a dread that almost unmanned him, he understood that the jellylike thing exuded a digestive fluid, by means of which it consumed its prey. He wondered how many men, in ages past, had stood in his place, bound helplessly to the pillar and awaiting the searing caress of the abomination now descending toward him.
Perhaps Feng’s weird piping summoned it, or perhaps the odor of living flesh called it to feast (вероятно причудливые звуки /флейты/ Фэна вызвали его, или, возможно, запах живой плоти позвал его на пир). Whatever the cause, it had begun a slow, inching progress down the side of the shaft toward his face (какой бы ни была причина, оно начало медленное, дюйм за дюймом движение вниз по стороне колонны к его лицу; inching — медленный, inch — дюйм, to inch — медленно двигаться, двигаться дюйм за дюймом). The wet jelly sucked and slobbered as it slithered slowly toward him (мокрый студень сосал = издавал сосущие звукии распускал слюни, по мере того как он скользил медленно к нему).
perhaps [pq'hxps], odor ['qudq], cause [kO: z]
Perhaps Feng’s weird piping summoned it, or perhaps the odor of living flesh called it to feast. Whatever the cause, it had begun a slow, inching progress down the side of the shaft toward his face. The wet jelly sucked and slobbered as it slithered slowly toward him.
Despair gave new strength to his cramped, tired muscles (отчаяние придало новые силы его сведенным судорогой, усталым мускулам). He threw himself from side to side (он бросался из стороны в сторону), striving with every last ounce of strength to break the grip of the mysterious force (борясь каждой последней унцией = каплейсилы, чтобы сломить захват таинственной силы). To his surprise, he found that, in one of his lunges, he slid to one side, partway around the column (к его удивлению он обнаружил, что в одном из своих рывков он соскользнул в одну сторону частично /пройдя путь/ вокруг колонны; to slide — скользить).
ounce [auns], break [breIk], surprise [sq'praIz]
Despair gave new strength to his cramped, tired muscles. He threw himself from side to side, striving with every last ounce of strength to break the grip of the mysterious force. To his surprise, he found that, in one of his lunges, he slid to one
So the grip that held him did not forbid all movement! (итак хватка, которая держала его, не запрещала всякого движения!) This gave him food for thought (это дало ему пищу для мысли), though he knew that he could not long thus elude the monster of living jelly (хотя он знал, что /он/ не мог = не можетдолго таким образом ускользать /от/ чудища из живого студня).
Something prodded his mailed side (что-то кольнуло его окольчуженный бок = бок в кольчуге). Looking down, he saw the rust-eaten dagger he had glimpsed before (посмотрев вниз, он увидел изъеденный ржавчиной кинжал, /который/ он заметил прежде). His movement sideways had brought the hilt of the weapon against his ribs (его движение вбок принесло рукоятку оружия к его ребрам).
held [held], food [fu: d], thus [DAs]
So the grip that held him did not forbid all movement! This gave him food for thought, though he knew that he could not long thus elude the monster of living jelly.
Something prodded his mailed side. Looking down, he saw the rust-eaten dagger he had glimpsed before. His movement sideways had brought the hilt of the weapon against his ribs.
His upper arm was still clamped against the stone by the sleeve of his mail shirt, but his forearm and hand were free (его верхняя рука = рука выше локтябыла все еще прижата к камню рукавом его кольчуги, но его предплечье и кисть были свободны). Could he bend his arm far enough to clasp the haft of the dagger? (мог ли он изогнуть /свою/ руку достаточно далеко, чтобы схватить рукоятку кинжала?)
He strained, inching his hand along the stone (он напрягся, медленно продвигая /свою/ кисть вдоль камня). The mail of his arm scraped slowly over the surface; sweat trickled into his eyes (кольчуга /на/ его руке царапала медленно по поверхности, пот сочился в = заливалего глаза). Bit by bit, his straining arm moved toward the handle of the dagger (понемножку его напряженная рука продвигалась к рукоятке кинжала). The taunting tune of Feng’s flute sang maddeningly in his ears (дразнящий мотив флейты Фэна пел, сводя с ума, в его ушах), while the ungodly stench of the slime-thing filled his nostrils (в то время как ужасное зловоние слизистой твари заполняло его ноздри).
along [q'lON], over ['quvq], while [waIl]
His upper arm was still clamped against the stone by the sleeve of his mail shirt, but his forearm and hand were free. Could he bend his arm far enough to clasp the haft of the dagger?
He strained, inching his hand along the stone. The mail of his arm scraped slowly over the surface; sweat trickled into his eyes. Bit by bit, his straining arm moved toward the handle of the dagger. The taunting tune of Feng’s flute sang maddeningly in his ears, while the ungodly stench of the slime-thing filled his nostrils.
His hand touched the dagger, and in an instant he held the hilt fast (его кисть коснулась кинжала, и через мгновение он держал рукоятку крепко). But, as he strained it away from the shaft, the rust-eaten blade broke with a sharp ping (но, когда он потянул его от столба, изъеденное ржавчиной лезвие сломалось с резким звоном). Rolling his eyes downward, he saw that about two thirds of the blade, from the tapering point back, had broken off and lay flat against the stone (повернув свои глаза вниз, он увидел, что около двух третей клинка от суживающегося острия назад отломались и лежат горизонтально на камне; to break off — отломаться). The remaining third still projected from the hilt (оставшаяся треть все еще выступала из рукояти). Since there was now less iron in the dagger for the shaft to attract, Conan was able, by a muscle-bulging effort, to tear the stump of the weapon away from the shaft (поскольку теперь было меньше железа в кинжале для колонны притягивать = чтобы его могла притянуть колонна, Конан смог вздувающим мускулы усилием = усилием, от которого вздулись мускулы, оторвать обломок оружия от столба).
touched [tAtSt], fast [fQ: st], effort ['efqt]
His hand touched the dagger, and in an instant he held the hilt fast. But, as he strained it away from the shaft, the rust-eaten blade broke with a sharp ping.Rolling his eyes downward, he saw that about two thirds of the blade, from the tapering point back, had broken off and lay flat against the stone. The remaining third still projected from the hilt. Since there was now less iron in the dagger for the shaft to attract, Conan was able, by a muscle-bulging effort, to tear the stump of the weapon away from the shaft.
A glance showed him that, although most of the blade was lost to him, the stump still had a couple of apparently sharp edges (взгляд показал ему, что хотя большая часть лезвия была потеряна для него, обломок все еще имел пару очевидно острых граней). With his muscles quivering from the effort of holding the implement away from the stone, he brought one of these edges up against the leathern thong that bound the two halves of the mail shirt together (/с/ мускулами, дрожащими от усилия, чтобы удержать инструмент /на расстоянии/ от камня, он поднес одну из этих граней к кожаному ремню, который связывал две половины кольчуги вместе). Carefully, he began to saw the tough rawhide with the rusty blade (осторожно он начал пилить жесткую сыромятную кожу ржавым лезвием; to begin — начинать(ся)).
lost [lOst], sharp [SQ: p], edges ['eGIz]
A glance showed him that, although most of the blade was lost to him, the stump still had a couple of apparently sharp edges. With his muscles quivering from the effort of holding the implement away from the stone, he brought one of these edges up against the leathern thong that bound the two halves of the mail shirt together. Carefully, he began to saw the tough rawhide with the rusty blade.
Every movement was agony (каждое движение было мукой). The torment of suspense grew unbearable (муки от неизвестности стали невыносимыми). His hand, bent into an uncomfortable, twisted position, ached and grew numb (его кисть, изогнутая в неудобном скрюченном положении, болела и стала онемевшей = онемела). The ancient blade was notched, thin, and brittle; a hasty motion might break it, leaving him helpless (старинный клинок был зазубренный, тонкий и хрупкий, поспешное движение могло сломать его, оставляя = оставивего (Конана) беспомощным). Stroke after stroke he sawed up and down, with exquisite caution (взмах за взмахом, он пилил вверх и вниз с большой осторожностью). The scent of the creature grew stronger and the sucking sounds of its progress, louder (запах существа становился сильнее, а чмокающие звуки его передвижения — громче).
numb [nAm], sawed [sO: d], creature ['kri: tSq]
Every movement was agony. The torment of suspense grew unbearable. His hand, bent into an uncomfortable, twisted position, ached and grew numb. The ancient blade was notched, thin, and brittle; a hasty motion might break it, leaving him helpless. Stroke after stroke he sawed up and down, with exquisite caution. The scent of the creature grew stronger and the sucking sounds of its progress, louder.
Then Conan felt the thong snap (потом Конан почувствовал треск ремня). The next instant, he hurled his full strength against the magnetic force that imprisoned him (/в/ следующее мгновение он швырнул его полную силу = всю свою силупротив магнитной силы, которая пленила его). The thong unraveled through the loopholes in the mail shirt, until one whole side of the shirt was open (ремень распутался через отверстия в кольчуге, пока одна целая сторона кольчуги = одна сторона кольчуги целиком/не/ раскрылась). His shoulder and half an arm came out through the opening (его плечо и половина руки вышли через отверстие).
next [nekst], against [q'genst], shoulder [Squldq]
Then Conan felt the thong snap. The next instant, he hurled his full strength against the magnetic force that imprisoned him. The thong unraveled through the loopholes in the mail shirt, until one whole side of the shirt was open. His shoulder and half an arm came out through the opening.
Then he felt a light blow on the head (потом он почувствовал легкий удар по голове). The stench became overpowering, and his unseen assailant from above pushed this way and that against his helmet (вонь стала непреодолимой, а его невидимый противник сверху толкался тут и там о его шлем). Conan knew that a jellylike tendril had reached his helmet and was groping over its surface, seeking flesh (Конан знал, что желеобразный усик достиг шлема и ощупывал его поверхность, ища = в поискахмяса). Any instant, the corrosive stuff would seep down over his face (/в/ любое мгновение едкое вещество просочится вниз на его лицо)…
blow [blqu], became [bI'keIm], stuff [stAf]
Then he felt a light blow on the head. The stench became overpowering, and his unseen assailant from above pushed this way and that against his helmet. Conan knew that a jellylike tendril had reached his helmet and was groping over its surface, seeking flesh. Any instant, the corrosive stuff would seep down over his face…
Frantically, he pulled his arm out of the sleeve of the unlaced side of the mail shirt (неистово он потянул свою руку из рукава расшнурованной стороны кольчуги). With his free hand, he unbuckled his sword belt and the chin strap of his helmet (свободной рукой он расстегнул ремень меча и ремешок на подбородке его шлема). Then he tore himself loose altogether from the deadly constriction of the mail, leaving his tulwar and his armor flattened against the stone (затем он оторвался /свободный/ полностью от смертельного захвата кольчуги, оставляя свой тульвар и /свои/ доспехи разглаженными на камне; to tear — рвать).
tore [tO: ], loose [lu: s], armor ['Q: mq]
Frantically, he pulled his arm out of the sleeve of the unlaced side of the mail shirt. With his free hand, he unbuckled his sword belt and the chin strap of his helmet. Then he tore himself loose altogether from the deadly constriction of the mail, leaving his tulwar and his armor flattened against the stone.
He staggered free of the column and stood for an instant on trembling legs (он шатался свободный от колонны и стоял какое-то мгновение на дрожащих ногах). The moonlit world swam before his eyes (освещенный луной мир поплыл перед его глазами).
Glancing back, he saw that the jelly-beast had now engulfed his helmet (посмотрев назад, он увидел, что студенистая тварь уже поглотила его шлем). Baffled in its quest for flesh (сбитая с толку в своих поисках плоти), it was sending more pseudopods down and outward, wavering and questing in the watery light (она выбрасывала ложноножки вниз и наружу, колыхаясь и ища = ведя поиск/занимаясь поискамив бледном свете).
beast [bi: st], quest [kwest], pseudopod ['sju: dqupOd]
He staggered free of the column and stood for an instant on trembling legs. The moonlit world swam before his eyes.
Glancing back, he saw that the jelly-beast had now engulfed his helmet. Baffled in its quest for flesh, it was sending more pseudopods down and outward, wavering and questing in the watery light.
Down the slope, the demoniac piping continued (внизу склона продолжалась демоническая игра /на флейте/). Feng sat cross-legged on the grass of the slope, tweedling away on his flute (Фэн сидел скрестив ноги на траве склона, наигрывая на своей флейте) as if absorbed in some inhuman ecstasy (как будто погруженный в какой-то нечеловеческий экстаз).
Conan ripped off and threw away the gag (Конан выругался и выбросил кляп). He pounced like a striking leopard (он прыгнул, как атакующий леопард). He came down upon the little duke; the pair rolled down the rest of the slope in a tangle of silken robe and thrashing limbs (он набросился на маленького князя, пара покатилась вниз /по/ остальной /части/ склона в клубке шелкового одеяния и молотящих конечностей). A blow to the side of the head subdued Feng’s struggles (удар в бок головы = боковой удар в головуподавил борьбу = сопротивлениеФэна). Conan groped into the Khitan’s wide sleeves and tore out the ivory cylinder containing the documents (Конан щупал в широкие рукава = нащупал в широких рукавахкхитайца и вырвал цилиндр из слоновой кости, содержащий документы; to tear — рвать(ся), разрывать(ся), срывать, отрывать(ся)).
piping ['paIpIN], grass [grQ: s], flute [flu: t]
Down the slope, the demoniac piping continued. Feng sat cross-legged on the grass of the slope, tweedling away on his flute as if absorbed in some inhuman ecstasy.
Conan ripped off and threw away the gag. He pounced like a striking leopard. He came down upon the little duke; the pair rolled down the rest of the slope in a tangle of silken robe and thrashing limbs. A blow to the side of the head subdued Feng’s struggles. Conan groped into the Khitan’s wide sleeves and tore out the ivory cylinder containing the documents.
Then Conan lurched back up the hill, dragging Feng after him (затем Конан, шатаясь, вернулся на холм, таща Фэна за собой; to lurch — идти шатаясь). As he reached the level section around the base of the monolith, he heaved Feng into the air over his head (когда он достиг горизонтального участка вокруг основания монолита, он поднял Фэна в воздух над головой). Seeing what was happening to him, the duke uttered one high, thin scream as Conan hurled him at the shaft (видя = увидев, что происходило = происходитс ним, князь издал один высокий тонкий вопль, когда Конан швырнул его на столб). The Khitan struck the column with a thud and slid unconscious to the ground at its base (кхитаец ударился о колонну с /глухим/ стуком и соскользнул без сознания на землю у его основания).
air [Fq], duke [dju: k], utter ['Atq]
Then Conan lurched back up the hill, dragging Feng after him. As he reached the level section around the base of the monolith, he heaved Feng into the air over his head. Seeing what was happening to him, the duke uttered one high, thin scream as Conan hurled him at the shaft. The Khitan struck the column with a thud and slid unconscious to the ground at its base.
The blow was merciful (удар был милостив), for the duke never felt the slimy touch of the haunter of the monolith as the glassy tentacles reached his face (ибо князь никогда = так ине почувствовал слизистого касания завсегдатая монолита, когда прозрачные щупальца достигли его лица). For a moment,
Conan grimly watched (в течение минуты Конан мрачно наблюдал). Feng’s features blurred as the rippling jelly slid over them (черты Фэна расплылись, когда пульсирующий студень скользнул по ним). Then the flesh faded away, and the skull and teeth showed through in a ghastly grin (затем плоть исчезла, а череп и зубы проступили в жутком оскале). The abomination flushed pink as it fed (мерзость = мерзкая тварьокрасилась в розовый цвет/покраснела, когда она насытилась).
Conan strode back to camp on stiff legs (Конан зашагал назад в лагерь на негнущихся ногах). Behind him, like a giant’s torch, the monolith stood against the sky, wrapped in smoky, scarlet flames (за ним, как гигантский факел, монолит стоял на фоне неба, охваченный дымными алыми языками пламени).
stiff [stIf], torch [tO: tS], scarlet [skQ: lIt]
The blow was merciful, for the duke never felt the slimy touch of the haunter of the monolith as the glassy tentacles reached his face. For a moment, Conan grimly watched. Feng’s features blurred as the rippling jelly slid over them. Then the flesh faded away, and the skull and teeth showed through in a ghastly grin. The abomination flushed pink as it fed.
Conan strode back to camp on stiff legs. Behind him, like a giant’s torch., the monolith stood against die sky, wrapped in smoky, scarlet flames.
It had been the work of moments only to strike fire into dry tinder with his flint and steel (это было работой нескольких моментов = минутным деломвысечь огонь в = поджечьсухой трут кремнем и огнивом). He had watched with grim satisfaction as the oily surface of the slime-monster ignited and blazed (он наблюдал с мрачным удовлетворением, когда маслянистая поверхность слизистого чудища зажглась и запылала) as it squirmed in voiceless agony (когда оно извивалось в безмолвной агонии). Let them both burn, he thought; the half-digested corpse of that treacherous dog and his loathsome pet! (позволь им обоим сгореть = пусть сгорят они оба, думал он, полупереваренный труп этого вероломного пса и его омерзительного любимца!)
fire ['faIq], tinder ['tIndq], burn [bq: n]
It had been the work of moments only to strike fire into dry tinder with his flint and steel. He had watched with grim satisfaction as the oily surface of the slime-monster ignited and blazed as it squirmed in voiceless agony. Let them both burn, he thought; the half-digested corpse of that treacherous dog and his loathsome pet!
As Conan neared the camp, he saw that the last of his warriors had not yet retired (когда Конан приблизился /к/ лагерю, он увидел, что последние из его воинов еще не легли спать; to retire — уходить, удаляться). Instead, several stood staring curiously at the distant firelight (вместо этого несколько стояли, вглядываясь с любопытством в далекий свет костра). As he appeared, they turned upon him, crying out: ‘Where have you been, Captain? What is that blaze? Where is the duke?’ (когда он появился, они повернулись к нему, восклицая: где ты был, капитан? что это /за/ огонь? где князь?)
distant ['dIstqnt], appeared [q'pIqd], upon [q'pOn]
false [fO: ls], rush [rAS], dawn [dO: n]
‘Lest you entertain false hopes of rescue by your men,’ Feng went on, ‘I have thought of that, also. In these hills dwell the Jagas, a primitive headhunting tribe. Attracted by your campfire, they will assemble at the ends of the valley and rush your camp at dawn. It is their invariable procedure.
‘By that time I shall, I hope, be far away (к тому времени /я/, надеюсь, буду далеко прочь = отсюда). If they capture me, too — well, a man must die some time, and I trust I shall do so with the dignity and decorum befitting one of my rank and culture (если они схватят меня тоже — хорошо = что ж, человек должен умереть когда-то, а я верю, /что/ /я/ сделаю это с достоинством и этикетом, приличествующим одному = человекумоего ранга и культуры). My head would make a delightful ornament in a Jaga hut, I am sure (моя голова стала бы очаровательным украшением в хижине джага, я уверен).
die [daI], trust [trAst], culture ['kAltSq]
‘By that time I shall, I hope, be far away. If they capture me, too — well, a man must die some time, and I trust I shall do so with the dignity and decorum befitting one of my rank and culture. My head would make a delightful ornament in a Jaga hut, I am sure.
‘And so, my good barbarian, farewell (итак, мой добрый варвар, прощай). You will forgive this person for turning his back upon you during your last moments (ты простишь эту = моюперсону за то, что /я/ повернусь к тебе спиной: «за поворачивание своей спиной на тебя» во время твоих последних мгновений). For your demise is a pity in a way, and I should not enjoy witnessing it (ибо твоя кончина печальный факт в какой-то мере; pity — жалость, печальный факт; in a way — в некотором отношении, в известном смысле, до известной степени). Had you had the advantages of a Khitan upbringing, you would have made an admirable servant (если бы ты имел преимущества кхитайского воспитания, ты стал бы замечательным слугой) — say, a bodyguard for me (скажем, телохранителем для меня). But things are as they are (но дела /такие/, как они есть = но дела обстоят так, /а не иначе/; thing — вещь, дело, факт, предмет).’
pity ['pItI], servant ['sq: vqnt], say [seI]
‘And so, my good barbarian, farewell. You will forgive this person for turning his back upon you during your last moments. For your demise is a pity in a way, and I should not enjoy witnessing it. Had you had the advantages of a Khitan upbringing, you would have made an admirable servant — say, a bodyguard for me. But things areas they are.’
After a mocking bow of farewell, the Khitan withdrew to the lower slope of the hill (после насмешливого прощального поклона кхитаец удалился к более низкому склону холма). Conan wondered if the Duke’s plan was to leave him trapped against the shaft until he perished of starvation and thirst (Конан хотел знать, ли план князя был оставить его = было ли в планах князя оставить егов ловушке у колонны, пока он /не/ погибнет от голода и жажды). If his men marked his absence before dawn, they might look for him (если его люди заметили бы его отсутствие до зари, они могли бы поискать его). But then, since he had stolen out of the camp without leaving word of his going (но тогда, так как он прокрался из лагеря без оставления слова = не сказаво своем уходе), they would not know whether to be alarmed by his absence (они не знали бы, тревожиться ли им из-за его отсутствия: «ли быть встревоженными». If he could only get word to them, they would scour the countryside for him (если бы он мог только передать им словечко, они бы прочесали местность ради него) and make short work of the treacherous little duke (и быстро разделались бы: «сделали короткую работу» с вероломным князьком). But how to get word (но как передать словечко = сообщить)?
slope [slqup], thirst [Tq: st], word [wq: d]
After a mocking bow of farewell, the Khitan withdrew to the lower slope of the hill. Conan wondered if the Duke’s plan was to leave him trapped against the shaft until he perished of starvation and thirst. If his men marked his absence before dawn, they might look for him. But then, since he had stolen out of the camp without leaving word of his going, they would not know whether to be alarmed by his absence. If he could only get word to them, they would scour the countryside for him and make short work of the treacherous little duke. But how to get word?
Again he threw his massive strength against the force that held him crushed against the column, but to no avail (снова он бросил свою большую силу против силы, которая держала его придавленным к колонне, но без никакой = какой- либопользы). He could move his lower legs and arms and even turn his head somewhat from side to side (он мог двигать нижними ногами и руками = нижними частями ног и руки даже вращать /своей/ головой немного из стороны в сторону). But his body was firmly gripped by the iron mail that clothed it (но его тело было крепко охвачено железной кольчугой, которая покрывала его).
threw [Tru: ], strength [streNT], iron ['aIqn]
Again he threw his massive strength against the force that held him crushed against the column, but to no avail. He could move his lower legs and arms and even turn his head somewhat from side to side. But his body was firmly gripped by the iron mail that clothed it.
Now the moon brightened (теперь луна прояснилась). Conan observed that, about his feet and elsewhere around the base of the monument, grisly remains of other victims were scattered (Конан заметил, что у его ног и в других местах вокруг основания памятника были разбросаны вызывающие ужас останки других жертв). Human bones and teeth were heaped like old rubbish (человеческие кости и зубы были свалены как старый мусор); he must have trodden upon them when the mysterious force pulled him up against the shaft (он, должно быть, наступил на них, когда таинственная сила притянула его к столбу; must have trodden — выражение вероятности события в прошлом с помощью модального глагола must (должно быть, наверное) — must + have + причастие прошедшего времени).
base [beIs], remains [rI'meInz], rubbish ['rAbIS]
Now the moon brightened. Conan observed that, about his feet and elsewhere around the base of the monument, grisly remains of other victims were scattered. Human bones and teeth were heaped like old rubbish; he must have trodden upon them when the mysterious force pulled him up against the shaft.
In the stronger light, Conan was disquieted to see that these remains were peculiarly discolored (в более сильном свете Конан был встревожен увидеть = увидев, что эти останки были необычно бледными). A closer look showed that the bones seemed to have been eaten away here and there (более пристальный взгляд показал, что кости, казалось, были объедены тут и там), as if some corrosive fluid had dissolved their smooth surfaces to expose the spongy structure beneath (как будто какая-то едкая жидкость растворила их гладкую поверхность, чтобы показать пористую структуру под /ней/).
eaten [i: tn], smooth [smu: D], structure ['strAktSq]
In the stronger light, Conan was disquieted to see that these remains were peculiarly discolored. A closer look showed that the bones seemed to have been eaten away here and there, as if some corrosive fluid had dissolved their smooth surfaces to expose the spongy structure beneath.
He turned his head from side to side, seeking some means of escape (он вертел головой из стороны в сторону, ища = в поискахкакого-нибудь средства /для/ побега). The words of the smooth-tongued Khitan seemed to be true (слова льстивого кхитайца казались /быть/ правдой, но теперь он мог разглядеть куски железа), but now he could discern pieces of iron held against the curiously stained and discolored stone of the column by the invisible force (удерживаемые на странно испачканном и обесцвеченном камне колонны невидимой силой). To his left he sighted the shovel, the crowbar, and the rusty bowl of a helmet (слева от него: «к его левому» он увидел лопату, лом и ржавую сферу шлема), while on the other side a time-eaten dagger was stuck against the stone (в то время как на другой стороне изъеденный временем кинжал был приклеен к камню). Yet once more he hurled his strength against this impalpable force… (/и/ все-таки еще раз он бросил свою силу против этой неосязаемой силы…)
escape [I'skeIp], means [mi: nz], true [tru:]
He turned his head from side to side, seeking some means of escape. The words of the smooth-tongued Khitan seemed to be true, but now he could discern pieces of iron held against the curiously stained and discolored stone of the column by the invisible force. To his left he sighted the shovel, the crowbar, and the rusty bowl of a helmet, while on the other side a time-eaten dagger was stuck against the stone. Yet once more he hurled his strength against this impalpable force…
From below sounded an eery piping sound — a mocking, maddening tune (снизу раздался зловещий звук свирели — насмешливый, сводящий с ума мотив). Straining his eyes through the fickle moonlight, Conan saw that Feng had not left the scene after all (напрягая свои глаза сквозь переменчивый свет луны, Конан увидел, что Фэн не покинул место действия, в конце концов). Instead, the duke was sitting on the grass on the side of the hill, near its base (вместо этого князь сидел на траве на краю холма, возле его основания). He had drawn a curious flute from his capacious garments and was playing upon it (он вытащил странную флейту из своих вместительных одежд и играл /на/ ней).
sound [saund], tune [tju: n], scene [si: n]
From below sounded an eery piping sound — a mocking, maddening tune. Straining his eyes through the fickle moonlight, Conan saw that Feng had not left the scene after all. Instead, the duke was sitting on the grass on the side of the hill, near its base. He had drawn a curious flute from his capacious garments and was playing upon it.
Through the shrill piping, a faint, squashy sound reached Conan’s ears (сквозь пронзительные звуки /флейты/ слабый чавкающий звук достиг ушей Конана). It seemed to come from above (он казался доноситься = казалось, доноситсясверху). The muscles of Conan’s bullneck stood out as he twisted his head to look upward (мускулы бычьей шеи Конана выступили, когда он повернул /свою/ голову, чтобы посмотреть вверх); the spired Turanian helmet grated against the stone as he moved (остроконечный туранский шлем заскрежетал /о/ камень, когда он зашевелился). Then the blood froze in his veins (затем кровь застыла в его венах; to freeze — замерзать, застывать, морозить).
faint [feInt], muscles [mAsklz], froze [frquz]
Through the shrill piping, a faint, squashy sound reached Conan’s ears. It seemed to come from above. The muscles of Conan’s bullneck stood out as he twisted his head to look upward; the spired Turanian helmet grated against the stone as he moved. Then the blood froze in his veins.
The mist that had obscured the top of die pylon was gone (дымка, которая затеняла вершину пилона, была ушедшей = пропала/исчезла/рассеялась). The rising half moon shone on and through an amorphous thing, which squatted obscenely on the summit of the column (поднимающийся полумесяц светил на и сквозь аморфное существо, которое сидело противно: «непристойно» = вызывая отвращениена вершине колонны). It was like a huge lump of quivering, semi- translucent jelly — and it lived (оно было подобно огромной глыбе подрагивающего полупрозрачного студня — и оно жило = было живым). Life — throbbing, bloated life — pulsed within it (жизнь — пульсирующая, распухшая жизнь — билась в нем). The moonlight glistened wetly upon it as it beat like a huge, living heart (лунный свет блестел мокро = отсвечивал мокрымна нем, когда оно билось, как огромное, живое сердце; to beat — бить(ся), ударить).
gone [gOn], jelly [GelI], translucent [txrnz'lu: snt]
The mist that had obscured the top of die pylon was gone. The rising half moon shone on and through an amorphous thing, which squatted obscenely on the summit of the column. It was like a huge lump of quivering, semi-translucent jelly — and it lived. Life — throbbing, bloated life — pulsed within it. The moonlight glistened wetly upon it as it beat like a huge, living heart.
As Conan, frozen with horror, watched, the dweller on the top of die monolith sent a trickle of jelly groping down the shaft toward him (когда Конан, застывший от ужаса, наблюдал, /как/ обитатель вершины монолита выпустил струйку желе, двигаясь ощупью вниз по столбу к нему). The slippery pseudopod slithered over the smooth surface of the stone (скользкий псевдопод/ложноножка скользнул через/по гладкой поверхности камня). Conan began to understand the source of the stains that discolored the face of the monolith (Конан начал понимать источник пятен, которые обесцветили лик монолита).
horror [hOrq], surface ['sq: fIs], source [sO: s]
As Conan, frozen with horror, watched, the dweller on the top of die monolith sent a trickle of jelly groping down the shaft toward him. The slippery pseudopod slithered over the smooth surface of the stone. Conan began to understand the source of the stains that discolored the face of the monolith.
The wind had changed (ветер переменился), and a vagrant down-draft wafted a sickening stench to Conan’s nostrils (и движущийся нисходящий поток воздуха донес тошнотворное зловоние до ноздрей Конана). Now he knew why the bones at the base of the shaft bore that oddly eaten appearance (теперь он знал, почему кости у основания колонны носили /на себе/ тот странно изъеденный вид). With a dread that almost unmanned him, he understood that the jellylike thing exuded a digestive fluid (со страхом, который почти лишил его мужества, он понял, что желеобразное существо испускала пищеварительную жидкость), by means of which it consumed its prey (посредством которой оно поглощало свою добычу). He wondered how many men, in ages past, had stood in his place (он спрашивал себя, сколько людей в прошедшие времена стояло на его месте), bound helplessly to the pillar and awaiting the searing caress of the abomination now descending toward him (прикованные беспомощно к столбу и ожидая жгучей ласки мерзости, теперь спускавшейся к нему).
dread [dred], fluid ['flu: Id], past [pQ: st]
The wind had changed, and a vagrant down-draft wafted a sickening stench to Conan’s nostrils. Now he knew why the bones at the base of the shaft bore that oddly eaten appearance. With a dread that almost unmanned him, he understood that the jellylike thing exuded a digestive fluid, by means of which it consumed its prey. He wondered how many men, in ages past, had stood in his place, bound helplessly to the pillar and awaiting the searing caress of the abomination now descending toward him.
Perhaps Feng’s weird piping summoned it, or perhaps the odor of living flesh called it to feast (вероятно причудливые звуки /флейты/ Фэна вызвали его, или, возможно, запах живой плоти позвал его на пир). Whatever the cause, it had begun a slow, inching progress down the side of the shaft toward his face (какой бы ни была причина, оно начало медленное, дюйм за дюймом движение вниз по стороне колонны к его лицу; inching — медленный, inch — дюйм, to inch — медленно двигаться, двигаться дюйм за дюймом). The wet jelly sucked and slobbered as it slithered slowly toward him (мокрый студень сосал = издавал сосущие звукии распускал слюни, по мере того как он скользил медленно к нему).
perhaps [pq'hxps], odor ['qudq], cause [kO: z]
Perhaps Feng’s weird piping summoned it, or perhaps the odor of living flesh called it to feast. Whatever the cause, it had begun a slow, inching progress down the side of the shaft toward his face. The wet jelly sucked and slobbered as it slithered slowly toward him.
Despair gave new strength to his cramped, tired muscles (отчаяние придало новые силы его сведенным судорогой, усталым мускулам). He threw himself from side to side (он бросался из стороны в сторону), striving with every last ounce of strength to break the grip of the mysterious force (борясь каждой последней унцией = каплейсилы, чтобы сломить захват таинственной силы). To his surprise, he found that, in one of his lunges, he slid to one side, partway around the column (к его удивлению он обнаружил, что в одном из своих рывков он соскользнул в одну сторону частично /пройдя путь/ вокруг колонны; to slide — скользить).
ounce [auns], break [breIk], surprise [sq'praIz]
Despair gave new strength to his cramped, tired muscles. He threw himself from side to side, striving with every last ounce of strength to break the grip of the mysterious force. To his surprise, he found that, in one of his lunges, he slid to one
So the grip that held him did not forbid all movement! (итак хватка, которая держала его, не запрещала всякого движения!) This gave him food for thought (это дало ему пищу для мысли), though he knew that he could not long thus elude the monster of living jelly (хотя он знал, что /он/ не мог = не можетдолго таким образом ускользать /от/ чудища из живого студня).
Something prodded his mailed side (что-то кольнуло его окольчуженный бок = бок в кольчуге). Looking down, he saw the rust-eaten dagger he had glimpsed before (посмотрев вниз, он увидел изъеденный ржавчиной кинжал, /который/ он заметил прежде). His movement sideways had brought the hilt of the weapon against his ribs (его движение вбок принесло рукоятку оружия к его ребрам).
held [held], food [fu: d], thus [DAs]
So the grip that held him did not forbid all movement! This gave him food for thought, though he knew that he could not long thus elude the monster of living jelly.
Something prodded his mailed side. Looking down, he saw the rust-eaten dagger he had glimpsed before. His movement sideways had brought the hilt of the weapon against his ribs.
His upper arm was still clamped against the stone by the sleeve of his mail shirt, but his forearm and hand were free (его верхняя рука = рука выше локтябыла все еще прижата к камню рукавом его кольчуги, но его предплечье и кисть были свободны). Could he bend his arm far enough to clasp the haft of the dagger? (мог ли он изогнуть /свою/ руку достаточно далеко, чтобы схватить рукоятку кинжала?)
He strained, inching his hand along the stone (он напрягся, медленно продвигая /свою/ кисть вдоль камня). The mail of his arm scraped slowly over the surface; sweat trickled into his eyes (кольчуга /на/ его руке царапала медленно по поверхности, пот сочился в = заливалего глаза). Bit by bit, his straining arm moved toward the handle of the dagger (понемножку его напряженная рука продвигалась к рукоятке кинжала). The taunting tune of Feng’s flute sang maddeningly in his ears (дразнящий мотив флейты Фэна пел, сводя с ума, в его ушах), while the ungodly stench of the slime-thing filled his nostrils (в то время как ужасное зловоние слизистой твари заполняло его ноздри).
along [q'lON], over ['quvq], while [waIl]
His upper arm was still clamped against the stone by the sleeve of his mail shirt, but his forearm and hand were free. Could he bend his arm far enough to clasp the haft of the dagger?
He strained, inching his hand along the stone. The mail of his arm scraped slowly over the surface; sweat trickled into his eyes. Bit by bit, his straining arm moved toward the handle of the dagger. The taunting tune of Feng’s flute sang maddeningly in his ears, while the ungodly stench of the slime-thing filled his nostrils.
His hand touched the dagger, and in an instant he held the hilt fast (его кисть коснулась кинжала, и через мгновение он держал рукоятку крепко). But, as he strained it away from the shaft, the rust-eaten blade broke with a sharp ping (но, когда он потянул его от столба, изъеденное ржавчиной лезвие сломалось с резким звоном). Rolling his eyes downward, he saw that about two thirds of the blade, from the tapering point back, had broken off and lay flat against the stone (повернув свои глаза вниз, он увидел, что около двух третей клинка от суживающегося острия назад отломались и лежат горизонтально на камне; to break off — отломаться). The remaining third still projected from the hilt (оставшаяся треть все еще выступала из рукояти). Since there was now less iron in the dagger for the shaft to attract, Conan was able, by a muscle-bulging effort, to tear the stump of the weapon away from the shaft (поскольку теперь было меньше железа в кинжале для колонны притягивать = чтобы его могла притянуть колонна, Конан смог вздувающим мускулы усилием = усилием, от которого вздулись мускулы, оторвать обломок оружия от столба).
touched [tAtSt], fast [fQ: st], effort ['efqt]
His hand touched the dagger, and in an instant he held the hilt fast. But, as he strained it away from the shaft, the rust-eaten blade broke with a sharp ping.Rolling his eyes downward, he saw that about two thirds of the blade, from the tapering point back, had broken off and lay flat against the stone. The remaining third still projected from the hilt. Since there was now less iron in the dagger for the shaft to attract, Conan was able, by a muscle-bulging effort, to tear the stump of the weapon away from the shaft.
A glance showed him that, although most of the blade was lost to him, the stump still had a couple of apparently sharp edges (взгляд показал ему, что хотя большая часть лезвия была потеряна для него, обломок все еще имел пару очевидно острых граней). With his muscles quivering from the effort of holding the implement away from the stone, he brought one of these edges up against the leathern thong that bound the two halves of the mail shirt together (/с/ мускулами, дрожащими от усилия, чтобы удержать инструмент /на расстоянии/ от камня, он поднес одну из этих граней к кожаному ремню, который связывал две половины кольчуги вместе). Carefully, he began to saw the tough rawhide with the rusty blade (осторожно он начал пилить жесткую сыромятную кожу ржавым лезвием; to begin — начинать(ся)).
lost [lOst], sharp [SQ: p], edges ['eGIz]
A glance showed him that, although most of the blade was lost to him, the stump still had a couple of apparently sharp edges. With his muscles quivering from the effort of holding the implement away from the stone, he brought one of these edges up against the leathern thong that bound the two halves of the mail shirt together. Carefully, he began to saw the tough rawhide with the rusty blade.
Every movement was agony (каждое движение было мукой). The torment of suspense grew unbearable (муки от неизвестности стали невыносимыми). His hand, bent into an uncomfortable, twisted position, ached and grew numb (его кисть, изогнутая в неудобном скрюченном положении, болела и стала онемевшей = онемела). The ancient blade was notched, thin, and brittle; a hasty motion might break it, leaving him helpless (старинный клинок был зазубренный, тонкий и хрупкий, поспешное движение могло сломать его, оставляя = оставивего (Конана) беспомощным). Stroke after stroke he sawed up and down, with exquisite caution (взмах за взмахом, он пилил вверх и вниз с большой осторожностью). The scent of the creature grew stronger and the sucking sounds of its progress, louder (запах существа становился сильнее, а чмокающие звуки его передвижения — громче).
numb [nAm], sawed [sO: d], creature ['kri: tSq]
Every movement was agony. The torment of suspense grew unbearable. His hand, bent into an uncomfortable, twisted position, ached and grew numb. The ancient blade was notched, thin, and brittle; a hasty motion might break it, leaving him helpless. Stroke after stroke he sawed up and down, with exquisite caution. The scent of the creature grew stronger and the sucking sounds of its progress, louder.
Then Conan felt the thong snap (потом Конан почувствовал треск ремня). The next instant, he hurled his full strength against the magnetic force that imprisoned him (/в/ следующее мгновение он швырнул его полную силу = всю свою силупротив магнитной силы, которая пленила его). The thong unraveled through the loopholes in the mail shirt, until one whole side of the shirt was open (ремень распутался через отверстия в кольчуге, пока одна целая сторона кольчуги = одна сторона кольчуги целиком/не/ раскрылась). His shoulder and half an arm came out through the opening (его плечо и половина руки вышли через отверстие).
next [nekst], against [q'genst], shoulder [Squldq]
Then Conan felt the thong snap. The next instant, he hurled his full strength against the magnetic force that imprisoned him. The thong unraveled through the loopholes in the mail shirt, until one whole side of the shirt was open. His shoulder and half an arm came out through the opening.
Then he felt a light blow on the head (потом он почувствовал легкий удар по голове). The stench became overpowering, and his unseen assailant from above pushed this way and that against his helmet (вонь стала непреодолимой, а его невидимый противник сверху толкался тут и там о его шлем). Conan knew that a jellylike tendril had reached his helmet and was groping over its surface, seeking flesh (Конан знал, что желеобразный усик достиг шлема и ощупывал его поверхность, ища = в поискахмяса). Any instant, the corrosive stuff would seep down over his face (/в/ любое мгновение едкое вещество просочится вниз на его лицо)…
blow [blqu], became [bI'keIm], stuff [stAf]
Then he felt a light blow on the head. The stench became overpowering, and his unseen assailant from above pushed this way and that against his helmet. Conan knew that a jellylike tendril had reached his helmet and was groping over its surface, seeking flesh. Any instant, the corrosive stuff would seep down over his face…
Frantically, he pulled his arm out of the sleeve of the unlaced side of the mail shirt (неистово он потянул свою руку из рукава расшнурованной стороны кольчуги). With his free hand, he unbuckled his sword belt and the chin strap of his helmet (свободной рукой он расстегнул ремень меча и ремешок на подбородке его шлема). Then he tore himself loose altogether from the deadly constriction of the mail, leaving his tulwar and his armor flattened against the stone (затем он оторвался /свободный/ полностью от смертельного захвата кольчуги, оставляя свой тульвар и /свои/ доспехи разглаженными на камне; to tear — рвать).
tore [tO: ], loose [lu: s], armor ['Q: mq]
Frantically, he pulled his arm out of the sleeve of the unlaced side of the mail shirt. With his free hand, he unbuckled his sword belt and the chin strap of his helmet. Then he tore himself loose altogether from the deadly constriction of the mail, leaving his tulwar and his armor flattened against the stone.
He staggered free of the column and stood for an instant on trembling legs (он шатался свободный от колонны и стоял какое-то мгновение на дрожащих ногах). The moonlit world swam before his eyes (освещенный луной мир поплыл перед его глазами).
Glancing back, he saw that the jelly-beast had now engulfed his helmet (посмотрев назад, он увидел, что студенистая тварь уже поглотила его шлем). Baffled in its quest for flesh (сбитая с толку в своих поисках плоти), it was sending more pseudopods down and outward, wavering and questing in the watery light (она выбрасывала ложноножки вниз и наружу, колыхаясь и ища = ведя поиск/занимаясь поискамив бледном свете).
beast [bi: st], quest [kwest], pseudopod ['sju: dqupOd]
He staggered free of the column and stood for an instant on trembling legs. The moonlit world swam before his eyes.
Glancing back, he saw that the jelly-beast had now engulfed his helmet. Baffled in its quest for flesh, it was sending more pseudopods down and outward, wavering and questing in the watery light.
Down the slope, the demoniac piping continued (внизу склона продолжалась демоническая игра /на флейте/). Feng sat cross-legged on the grass of the slope, tweedling away on his flute (Фэн сидел скрестив ноги на траве склона, наигрывая на своей флейте) as if absorbed in some inhuman ecstasy (как будто погруженный в какой-то нечеловеческий экстаз).
Conan ripped off and threw away the gag (Конан выругался и выбросил кляп). He pounced like a striking leopard (он прыгнул, как атакующий леопард). He came down upon the little duke; the pair rolled down the rest of the slope in a tangle of silken robe and thrashing limbs (он набросился на маленького князя, пара покатилась вниз /по/ остальной /части/ склона в клубке шелкового одеяния и молотящих конечностей). A blow to the side of the head subdued Feng’s struggles (удар в бок головы = боковой удар в головуподавил борьбу = сопротивлениеФэна). Conan groped into the Khitan’s wide sleeves and tore out the ivory cylinder containing the documents (Конан щупал в широкие рукава = нащупал в широких рукавахкхитайца и вырвал цилиндр из слоновой кости, содержащий документы; to tear — рвать(ся), разрывать(ся), срывать, отрывать(ся)).
piping ['paIpIN], grass [grQ: s], flute [flu: t]
Down the slope, the demoniac piping continued. Feng sat cross-legged on the grass of the slope, tweedling away on his flute as if absorbed in some inhuman ecstasy.
Conan ripped off and threw away the gag. He pounced like a striking leopard. He came down upon the little duke; the pair rolled down the rest of the slope in a tangle of silken robe and thrashing limbs. A blow to the side of the head subdued Feng’s struggles. Conan groped into the Khitan’s wide sleeves and tore out the ivory cylinder containing the documents.
Then Conan lurched back up the hill, dragging Feng after him (затем Конан, шатаясь, вернулся на холм, таща Фэна за собой; to lurch — идти шатаясь). As he reached the level section around the base of the monolith, he heaved Feng into the air over his head (когда он достиг горизонтального участка вокруг основания монолита, он поднял Фэна в воздух над головой). Seeing what was happening to him, the duke uttered one high, thin scream as Conan hurled him at the shaft (видя = увидев, что происходило = происходитс ним, князь издал один высокий тонкий вопль, когда Конан швырнул его на столб). The Khitan struck the column with a thud and slid unconscious to the ground at its base (кхитаец ударился о колонну с /глухим/ стуком и соскользнул без сознания на землю у его основания).
air [Fq], duke [dju: k], utter ['Atq]
Then Conan lurched back up the hill, dragging Feng after him. As he reached the level section around the base of the monolith, he heaved Feng into the air over his head. Seeing what was happening to him, the duke uttered one high, thin scream as Conan hurled him at the shaft. The Khitan struck the column with a thud and slid unconscious to the ground at its base.
The blow was merciful (удар был милостив), for the duke never felt the slimy touch of the haunter of the monolith as the glassy tentacles reached his face (ибо князь никогда = так ине почувствовал слизистого касания завсегдатая монолита, когда прозрачные щупальца достигли его лица). For a moment,
Conan grimly watched (в течение минуты Конан мрачно наблюдал). Feng’s features blurred as the rippling jelly slid over them (черты Фэна расплылись, когда пульсирующий студень скользнул по ним). Then the flesh faded away, and the skull and teeth showed through in a ghastly grin (затем плоть исчезла, а череп и зубы проступили в жутком оскале). The abomination flushed pink as it fed (мерзость = мерзкая тварьокрасилась в розовый цвет/покраснела, когда она насытилась).
Conan strode back to camp on stiff legs (Конан зашагал назад в лагерь на негнущихся ногах). Behind him, like a giant’s torch, the monolith stood against the sky, wrapped in smoky, scarlet flames (за ним, как гигантский факел, монолит стоял на фоне неба, охваченный дымными алыми языками пламени).
stiff [stIf], torch [tO: tS], scarlet [skQ: lIt]
The blow was merciful, for the duke never felt the slimy touch of the haunter of the monolith as the glassy tentacles reached his face. For a moment, Conan grimly watched. Feng’s features blurred as the rippling jelly slid over them. Then the flesh faded away, and the skull and teeth showed through in a ghastly grin. The abomination flushed pink as it fed.
Conan strode back to camp on stiff legs. Behind him, like a giant’s torch., the monolith stood against die sky, wrapped in smoky, scarlet flames.
It had been the work of moments only to strike fire into dry tinder with his flint and steel (это было работой нескольких моментов = минутным деломвысечь огонь в = поджечьсухой трут кремнем и огнивом). He had watched with grim satisfaction as the oily surface of the slime-monster ignited and blazed (он наблюдал с мрачным удовлетворением, когда маслянистая поверхность слизистого чудища зажглась и запылала) as it squirmed in voiceless agony (когда оно извивалось в безмолвной агонии). Let them both burn, he thought; the half-digested corpse of that treacherous dog and his loathsome pet! (позволь им обоим сгореть = пусть сгорят они оба, думал он, полупереваренный труп этого вероломного пса и его омерзительного любимца!)
fire ['faIq], tinder ['tIndq], burn [bq: n]
It had been the work of moments only to strike fire into dry tinder with his flint and steel. He had watched with grim satisfaction as the oily surface of the slime-monster ignited and blazed as it squirmed in voiceless agony. Let them both burn, he thought; the half-digested corpse of that treacherous dog and his loathsome pet!
As Conan neared the camp, he saw that the last of his warriors had not yet retired (когда Конан приблизился /к/ лагерю, он увидел, что последние из его воинов еще не легли спать; to retire — уходить, удаляться). Instead, several stood staring curiously at the distant firelight (вместо этого несколько стояли, вглядываясь с любопытством в далекий свет костра). As he appeared, they turned upon him, crying out: ‘Where have you been, Captain? What is that blaze? Where is the duke?’ (когда он появился, они повернулись к нему, восклицая: где ты был, капитан? что это /за/ огонь? где князь?)
distant ['dIstqnt], appeared [q'pIqd], upon [q'pOn]