On the top of these golden steps were two depressions such as might have been worn out in the course of ages by persons kneeling there.

Also the flat edge of the basin which stood about thirty inches above the level of the topmost step, was scored as though by hundreds of sword cuts which had made deep lines in the pure metal.

The basin itself was empty.
Seeing that these things interested him, the Asika volunteered the information through Jeekie, that this was a divining-bowl, and that if those who went before her had wished to learn the future, they caused Little Bonsa to float in it and found out all they wanted to know by her movements.

She, however, she added, had other and better methods of learning things that were predestined.
"Where does the water come from ?" asked Alan thoughtlessly searching the bowl for some tap or inlet.
"Out of the hearts of men," she answered with a low and dreadful laugh.
"These marks are those of swords and every one of them means a life." Then seeing that he looked incredulous she added, "Stay, I will show you.

Little Bonsa must be thirsty who has fasted so long, also there are matters that I desire to know.