Long Ghost proposed to send the latter packing; but Rartoo said it would never do, and so they were permitted to remain.
We tried to effect an entrance at the door, which was fastened; but, after a noisy discussion with one of the old witches within, our guide became fidgety, and, at last, told us to desist, or we would spoil all.

He then led us off to a distance to await the performance; as the girls, he said, did not wish to be recognized.

He, furthermore, made us promise to remain where we were until all was over, and the dancers had retired.
We waited impatiently; and, at last, they came forth.

They were arrayed in short tunics of white tappa; with garlands of flowers on their heads.

Following them were the duennas, who remained clustering about the house, while the girls advanced a few paces; and, in an instant, two of them, taller than their companions, were standing, side by side, in the middle of a ring formed by the clasped hands of the rest.