So far I have withstood them, but I am old and cannot look to live long, and after I have gone your enemies would assuredly have their way.

Therefore I think it is for your good that you should go with these merchants." The cazique was speaking the truth, but not the whole truth.

The merchants had offered, in slaves and goods, an amount which had excited his cupidity; and he was, moreover, glad to be rid of the presence of one who was the cause of constant dispute and trouble in his councils.

At the same time, he still believed in the supernatural powers of his visitor; and was afraid that, if the latter went against his will, he might invoke all sorts of ills and misfortunes upon Tabasco.
He was much relieved then, when Roger replied that he was willing to go with the merchants.
"I have seen," he said, "that my presence here is unwelcome to many, and that I was the cause of trouble.

I know, too, cazique, that you have befriended me to the utmost, while many others have been against me.