"Yes, to the entrance of the chief's resting-place. How many are you?"
"Ten in all."
"Your numbers guarantee a friendly message," was the smiling answer.
"We will await you at the foot of the path."
As the men departed Grigosie lowered the rifle which he had held ready for use, his finger resting lightly on the trigger; but he did not move from his post until Ellerey called him.
"Ready, lad; we march at once."
"You are satisfied with the embassy?"
"Quite. In an hour's time the first stage of our mission will be accomplished."
"And then?"
"The result lies on the knees of the gods," said Ellerey.
"Do we all go?" asked the boy. "Yes."