CHAPTER IX
PLANS FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE NATIVES
Directly beyond this chamber, and on a line with the entrance passage, was an extension which led to the other side of the hill. The chamber formed an immense cross, in its plan section, and the two lateral extremities were the points of interest.
The party first went to the left, and there found the habitation of the Krishnos. Peculiar implements and instruments were discovered, and all of these were taken, and placed together, Muro and the boys looking on in wonder.
Among them were found a number of crude crosses and numerous charms or amulets, the kind that they vended, and which the natives gave their souls and bodies to acquire.
"The possession of these will be of great service to us, as the people reverence them, and we must not expect to change their beliefs in a fortnight."
"You said there was a lot of treasure here," remarked Ralph.
"That is in the other wing of the chamber. As we have everything from this place that is serviceable, we will go to the south wing."
The recessed part of the chamber at this place had the appearance of being carved from the rock, and decorated with the universal calcium. The floor was covered with stalagmites, rough and un[p. 112]even, showing that the place had not been trod, perhaps for centuries.