There was that in the voice and manner of the prince which affected the simple, girlish heart of Oxie greatly. She was too much confused to reply, and, dropping her eyes under his piercing look, hurried on after her father and Mitla, who had already entered the house. Hualcoyotl was always considerate of the feelings of those with whom he came in contact, no matter what might be their station in life; as a consequence he was kindly regarded by all who came, in any degree, to know him. His words addressed to Oxie, in acknowledgment of the gift of flowers, were spoken with no thought other than that of kindness; yet, what he said was indelibly fixed on her keenly receptive mind, especially the words: "Your kindness, Oxie, will not soon be forgotten." They would prove a secret treasure put away in memory's hidden recesses to be drawn upon "When in silent, contemplative mood." * * * * * When the mountaineer left home in the morning, instead of going to hunt he went directly to the hermit's cave. His purpose was to have a talk with Ix, the "man of mystery," regarding the prince, and to arrange for bringing him to the cavern for safety. He felt sure the hermit would raise no objections to having the fugitive for a close neighbor, if not a companion. He was received with the hermit's accustomed cordiality, and listened to with close attention while he made known the object of his visit. Notwithstanding his habitual serenity, Ix gave evidence in his mien of both interest and sympathy as the account of the prince's distressed condition, when rescued, was told to him by the hunter. He said nothing, however, until the latter was through. "I know not of what blood you are, O Tezcot, nor do I ask to know; but, from the words you have often spoken in my presence, to which I have hearkened with pleasure, together with the deep concern you now manifest for the welfare of the Prince of Tezcuco, I am assured that you are kindly disposed toward his people. Although Ix is without a country, still he has his preferences. Your sympathy for the young prince finds an echo in my lonely heart. Fetch him hither, good friend, and let him abide with me, for mine is a dreary cell to which his presence will bring a welcome relief." Such was Ix's gratifying response to Tezcot's plea for Hualcoyotl. Expressing his gratification in a very hearty manner for the hermit's ready consent to receive the prince as a companion, and promising to see him again in the evening, accompanied by the latter, the hunter took his departure.