“That were not possible. But in a fortnight expect me.”
“Haille! Haille!” echoed again and again.
It was fully an hour before the presents were all exchanged. There were exquisite articles of ivory, carved and chased in colors, and inlaid with metals and stones. Baskets of incredible fineness and blankets such as the Navajo Indians used to make were given by the Monbas.
Cunningly wrought cups of pottery were offered to Kerœcia by Ildiko, one being of her own make. It was round, and had for a handle a female head, which was an excellent likeness of herself. Taking a finely woven horsehair rope, which terminated in oblong onyx balls—Kerœcia swung one end high over her head, while retaining the other in her left hand. Facing Yermah, she entangled him completely by a dexterous turn of her wrists, despite his playful protest. The two balls swinging in opposite directions rapidly encircled and held him as if in a grip of steel.
“That, also, is a spiral movement,” she exclaimed, mischievously.
“And one which I have neither the desire nor the power to control or escape,” he replied, meaningly.
“The laws of hospitality declare the property confiscate to thee. The cord should be condemned to a life of hard service.”
“On the contrary, it shall have a high place in my affections, and shall receive state honors.”
There was that in his look and voice which sent the warm blood mantling to her cheek and brow.
Akaza came forward and with a blessing slipped a ring on her little finger. It was set with a garnet, having a lion intaglio.