Before dismissing the assembly Stanley ordered them all to return to their homes without delay and in a series of mass-meetings explain the tidings to the inhabitants of the valley. At the end of twenty days the elections were to be held, and at the end of thirty days the representatives were to report to the Coricancha for the coronation of their ruler and for the inauguration into their new offices. “We cannot do everything,” Stanley said to Ted when they were alone after the meeting. “Changes in government come slowly, and if they are too radical and too complicated they cause only confusion. All we can do here is to point out the right road; then let them find their own way. In the long run it is they, not we, who must work out their salvation.” “Even at that it will be one of the biggest steps forward they have made in ages. I believe we are accomplishing something well worth while. To have a whole nation in one’s absolute power, and to set it on its feet, is a thing the greatest statesmen in the world are trying to do at this very minute, and without glaring success either.” * * * * * The ensuing thirty days were busy ones for Ted and Stanley. Each morning they received the amautas and spent several hours in conversation with them. After that they strolled in the garden with its marvellous flowers, gorgeous birds, and sparkling fountains. The afternoons were spent closeted with Quizquiz, whose presence they had succeeded in keeping secret save only for Soncco and a few trusted guards. They received reports daily from the caciques, or chiefs, of the various districts who were conducting the search for the supposed fugitive, and these reports, of course, always admitted failure to capture the elusive Quizquiz. Villac Umu remained surly and unapproachable. The Americans tried in every way to penetrate into his real character, and to learn if there was not a single good trait in his make-up, but his case proved hopeless. He repelled all their advances with sneers and threats, and convinced the two that any attempt to reason with him was worse than futile. So, after deciding definitely the future of Quizquiz, they also passed upon the fate of the high priest. The month passed all too soon. By the end of the twenty-second day the representatives from the nearer districts began to arrive. Those from the more remote cities did not reach the City of Gold until the day before the ceremonies. Each one was accompanied by the chief from the district that had sent him, and the latter was compelled to vouch for his identity and to certify to his proper election. Those of noble birth as well as the commoners were given quarters in one of the large buildings adjoining the Inca’s own residence.