After looking in all directions, the old man made a sign to his companion to place himself near him, and pointing to the cavern:
"It is there we are going," said he, in a low voice.
"Ah!" answered the young man, with as smiling an air as he could affect, although his curiosity was much excited; "If that is the case, let us not stop here any longer; let us enter."
"One moment," pursued the Cougar, "let us first assure ourselves that he has arrived."
"Arrived! Who?" asked the young man.
"He whom we wish to see, probably," said the old man.
"Ah! Very well; only it is you, not I, who wish to see the person of whom you speak."
"Let us not play upon words, my friend; it is as important to you as to me, believe me, that this interview takes place."
"You know that I allow myself to be entirely guided by you; I think I have even given proof of exemplary docility. After this conversation which is about to take place, I shall probably be in a better position to know of what importance to me is this proceeding, which, I avow, I only enter upon with misgiving; although, I repeat, I feel myself attracted towards this man."
The Cougar opened his lips as though he was about to answer, but immediately changing his mind, he turned with an abrupt movement, and, after having again explored the locality by looking around him, he imitated twice the cry of the condor.