"That was the rattle," said Francisco.
Mauricio was already putting the horses into the wagon, and in a few moments they were leaving the beautiful green valley behind, although they did not retrace the route they had taken that morning.
Mauricio, wishing to show them the source of the iron spring, suggested that they make a circuit, which would bring them eventually to the road. All agreed. When they came opposite the bare spot where the immolation of the Indian was supposed to have taken place Walter asked:
"What became of the huge stone under which the snakes were hidden, Mauricio?"
"I do not know," replied the Indian; "I have never heard. Maybe it crumbled to pieces after awhile, or maybe it disappeared as suddenly as it came."
"I went over there this morning, or, rather, Francisco and I did," said Walter, "and we believe, at least I do, that there is nothing peculiar about the spot at all. You can see there have been a great many fires there—that is why nothing grows."
"No Indian would make a fire there," said Francisco.
"Wouldn't you?" queried Mr. Page.
"No, I would not," said the boy. "I would be afraid."
"I would just love to try it," said Walter. "If we were going to stay longer I would."