One of the feather bunches rolled on the floor.

They nearly screamed in terror, for their excited imagination caused them to hear ghostly sounds,--disconnected, uncomprehended words.
It was clear that the black corn had spoken.

What it said neither could tell; but the fact of having heard the noise was sufficient to convince them that Say was under the influence of an evil charm, and Shotaye took care to add that that charm was exercised by the Koshare or by some one belonging to their society.
So powerful was the effect of this incantation scene upon Say that she fainted.

After a while she recovered and Shotaye led her back to the outer room, where, after some time, she began to slumber from sheer exhaustion.

Then the medicine-woman returned to the caves, taking with her every vestige of the conjuration.
It was wise on her part, for as soon as Say awoke from feverish and anxious dreams, her first thought was about the dismal objects.
Everything was quiet.