The lad appeared to be greatly affected by the failure, as Euetzin could discern, even in the darkness. He walked away a few steps, as if to hide his emotion. Returning presently, he said, in an excited tone of voice:
"Tzin Euet, you must escape. Macua, my master, and Hualcoyotl—yes, Ixtlilchoatl, too, would have it so. I will carry you."
Euetzin was astonished at the vehemence in the youth's actions, and also at his allusion to Ix and the two princes. He quickly inquired:
"Are you a servant to Macua, and here at his bidding?"
"Yes, I am a servant to Macua, but he knows nothing of my being here. I heard the voice of sorrow when it was discovered that you were missing, and in that moment resolved to save you, if it could be done," replied the youth, fervidly.
"You are a noble lad, Hualla, and should I escape to live, your conduct shall be richly rewarded."
"You must escape," repeated the youth in a voice of great earnestness. "Get upon my back, and I will bear you to the woods."
"I do not think you have the strength, Hualla, to do that; and if you had, it would be too much to expect of you."
"Yes, it would be much to expect of me, if it were not a case of life and death. That makes the difference, tzin, and you must allow me to make the attempt."
Euetzin was silent for a moment, and then said: