"Nocobotha! Nocobotha!"
The warrior smiled proudly, and took his place in the first rank of the chiefs.
"The nacurulu (Bubo Magellanicus) has sung twice," he said; "the osprey of the Rio Negro has raised its melancholy cry; the night is drawing to a close; what have the chiefs of the great nations resolved?"
"It would be useful, I think," one of the Indians answered, "to implore the protection of Gualichu for the council."
"The advice of my brother, Metipan, is wise. Let the matchi be warned."
While a chief went off to fetch the matchi, or sorcerer, another chief quitted the circle, went up to Nocobotha, whispered something to him, and then returned to his place. The Toqui of the Aucas laid his hand on his machete, and shouted in a loud and menacing voice—
"A traitor is among us! Attention, brothers."
A shudder of passion ran through the ranks, and each Indian looked at his neighbour.
"He must die!" they shouted unanimously.
"It is well," Nocobotha answered.