“Twice has she sent to ask after me.”
“Which newly affirms the gentleness of her nature.”
The situation was trying for Yermah, but he humored his companion, as he saw that speech was a relief to him. He did not suspect Orondo of knowing that he, too, loved Kerœcia.
“When strength comes again, I must consider the work before me,” said Orondo, after an eloquent silence. “Duty lays a stern hand on both of us.”
“The shamans will cause public complaint if I indulge thee in that direction,” said Yermah. “A sharp reprimand rewarded Setos for his effort in that line.”
“Setos said nothing to me of that matter,” said Orondo, in surprise.
“But he said that to thee which taxed thy powers of control, and for this reason he is forbidden to see thee again, to-day. Dost thou wish me to have a similar experience?”
“The shamans will see that thou hast greatly aided me,” said Orondo, as the chief shaman came to his bedside accompanied by Akaza.
“The twilight hour approaches, and I have come to worship with thee,” said the hierophant, making the sign of benediction over Orondo. Turning to Yermah, he said:
“The Father of the Beginnings have thee in safe keeping.”