CHAPTER IV.
Hivohitee MDCCCXLVIII Now, those doleful woodlands passed, straightway converse was renewed, and much discourse took place, concerning Hivohitee, Pontiff of the isle.
For, during our first friendly conversation with Pani, Media had inquired for Hivohitee, and sought to know in what part of the island he abode.
Whereto Pani had replied, that the Pontiff would be invisible for several days to come; being engaged with particular company.
And upon further inquiry, as to who were the personages monopolizing his hospitalities, Media was dumb when informed, that they were no other than certain incorporeal deities from above, passing the Capricorn Solstice at Maramma.
As on we journeyed, much curiosity being expressed to know more of the Pontiff and his guests, old Mohi, familiar with these things, was commanded to enlighten the company.

He complied; and his recital was not a little significant, of the occasional credulity of chroniclers.
According to his statement, the deities entertained by Hivohitee belonged to the third class of immortals.

These, however, were far elevated above the corporeal demi-gods of Mardi.

Indeed, in Hivohitee's eyes, the greatest demi-gods were as gourds.

Little wonder, then, that their superiors were accounted the most genteel characters on his visiting list.
These immortals were wonderfully fastidious and dainty as to the atmosphere they breathed; inhaling no sublunary air, but that of the elevated interior; where the Pontiff had a rural lodge, for the special accommodation of impalpable guests; who were entertained at very small cost; dinners being unnecessary, and dormitories superfluous.
But Hivohitee permitted not the presence of these celestial grandees, to interfere with his own solid comfort.