The oldest Indians, especially those of noble birth, including many descendants of the Incas, were assembled at different times and in different parts of the country, and carefully questioned, through the official interpreter, as to just what the old religion was.

The questions were not leading ones, and the replies have great uniformity.

They all agreed that Viracocha was worshiped as creator, and as the ever-present active divinity; he alone answered prayers, and aided in time of need; he was the sole efficient god.

All prayers to the Sun or to the deceased Incas, or to idols, were directed to them as intercessors only.

On this point the statements were most positive[2].