But as for treating a sick woman--However, I leave it to you, Gondocori.

If you choose to introduce me to her Majesty as a medicine-man I will act the part to the best of my ability." "I ask no more, senor; and if you are fortunate enough to cure Mamcuna of her sickness--" "Or make her believe that I have cured her." "That would do quite as well; you will thank me for bringing you to Pachatupec, for although the queen can make things very unpleasant for those who offend her, she can also make them very pleasant for those whom she likes.

And now, senores, as we must to-morrow travel a long way fasting, let us turn into our hammocks and compose ourselves to sleep." Excellent advice, which I was only too glad to follow.

But we were awake long before daylight--for albeit fatigue often acts as an anodyne, hunger is the enemy of repose--and at the first streak of dawn wended to the silent pool.
As we stepped into the canoe selected by Gondocori (the boats were intended for the transport of mules and horses) I found that the water was warm, and, on tasting it, I perceived a strong mineral flavor.

The pool was a thermal spring, and its high temperature fully accounted for the fertility of the hollow and the mildness of the air.