It was a sign that the council was not yet assembled, and especially that the religious chiefs had not made their appearance.
Those who were present assumed any posture imaginable, provided it gave them comfort.

They talked and conversed about very unimportant matters, and laughed and joked.

There was no division into separate groups, foreshadowing the drift of opinions and of interests; for no lobbying was going on.

Every one seemed to be as free and easy as in his own home or in the estufa among his companions, and the greatest apparent harmony prevailed.

One man only had retired to a rocky recess where he sat aloof from the others in the darkest shadow of the already shadowy spot.