Then it was observed to have risen a good many more feet above the surface of the lake, as might be noted by the water mark upon the shore, and then also the mouth of the cave had appeared.

The priests said that all this was because the Oromatuas who dwelt there were stirring, which portended great things.

Indeed great things had happened--for had we not arrived in their land?
I thanked him for what he had told me, and, as there was nothing more to be learned, dropped the subject which was never mentioned between us again, at least not for a long while.

But in my heart I determined that I would reach that mountain even though to do so I must risk my life.
Something seemed to call me to the place; it was as though I were being drawn by a magnet.
As it happened, before so very long I did go to the mountain, not of my own will but because I was obliged.

It came about thus.