“Yes, that’s so. I forgot what kind of place I was in. Talking to my own countrymen made me think I was back in civilization again.”
They had by this time entered one of the many passages, and torches were put in use.
At the suggestion of Dick, Roderique de Amilo led them to the fountain and pool, and Leo and the professor were surprised beyond measure at what they saw.
The Spaniard pointed to what was inscribed upon the stone tablet, and said:
“I did that; and I am the living proof that what it means is true.”
Then he again went over the legend of Hez, and wound up by pointing to the identical spot in the pool where the beautiful woman, whom he afterward made his wife, arose so mysteriously.
De Amilo told his story in such a solemn way that his hearers were more or less impressed with it.
“I believe that in some manner that man has become satisfied that yarn is true himself,” said Leo, in a whisper to his cousin.
“Yes,” assented Dick; “either that or else the legend is true, after all.”
Leo smiled.