When they reached the cave wherein the cacique resided, Hoshkanyi entered first.
Close to the fireplace, which was one of those primitive chimneys like the one we have seen in the home of Shotaye, an old man was seated on the floor.

His age was certainly greater than Topanashka's; he was of middle height, lean and even emaciated.

His eyes were dim, and he received the greetings of his visitors with an air of indifference or timidity; it was difficult to determine which.

Pointing to the floor he said,-- "What brings you to my house, children!" and he coughed a hollow, hectic cough.
The tapop began,-- "We wish--" "Do not say we," the maseua corrected him, "you wish, not I." Hoshkanyi bit his lips and began anew,-- "I and my brother here have come because I want to ask you something.
But if you are at work, grandfather, then we will go." "I am not working, sa uishe," said the cacique.

"Speak; I listen.