It had been brought before the High Priest in perfect shape, just as it had been taken from the waters that day when it was loaded on board the ship by the people who discovered us on the river more than a year before.
We were given an audience of over two hours with this great dignitary, who seemed kindly disposed and considerate.

He showed himself eagerly interested, asking us numerous questions, and invariably regarding things about which his emissaries had failed to inquire.
At the conclusion of the interview he inquired our pleasure, asking us whether we wished to remain in his country or if we preferred to return to the "outer" world, providing it were possible to make a successful return trip, across the frozen belt barriers that encircle both the northern and southern openings of the earth.
My father replied: "It would please me and my son to visit your country and see your people, your colleges and palaces of music and art, your great fields, your wonderful forests of timber; and after we have had this pleasurable privilege, we should like to try to return to our home on the 'outside' surface of the earth.

This son is my only child, and my good wife will be weary awaiting our return." "I fear you can never return," replied the Chief High Priest, "because the way is a most hazardous one.

However, you shall visit the different countries with Jules Galdea as your escort, and be accorded every courtesy and kindness.

Whenever you are ready to attempt a return voyage, I assure you that your boat which is here on exhibition shall be put in the waters of the river Hiddekel at its mouth, and we will bid you Jehovah-speed." Thus terminated our only interview with the High Priest or Ruler of the continent..