They went to them and signified by signs that they would worship the Queen, but were sternly refused admission in words which they could not understand, but that Soa, who was listening, afterwards translated to them.
"The Mother had come to her home," said the spokesman, "and might be profaned no more by the eyes of the vulgar.

The Snake also was in his home, and none should look upon him." When arguments failed Leonard tried to force his way through, and was met by a huge spear pointed at his throat.

How things would have ended it is difficult to say had not Juanna herself appeared at this juncture, standing between the curtains of the doorway.

At the sight of her the priests and soldiers fell upon their faces, and Leonard had sufficient presence of mind to follow their example, dragging Francisco down beside him.
"What is this tumult ?" she asked the guards in their own tongue.
"I tell you what it is, Juanna," said Leonard, rubbing his head upon the ground and speaking in English.

"If you do not come to an understanding with these scoundrels, you will soon be cut of from all communication with us, and what is more, we shall be cut off too in another way.