Exaggeration, over-coloring, all that savored of unreality or falsehood, was absolutely foreign to his nature. Yermah, the hierophant, was no cold abstraction, too self-absorbed to think and to feel deeply—but he was _strong in the love that gives_, equally joyful though he who received knew not the source. He never repaid injury or scorn. This quality showed itself in many ways. In quick and ready sympathy; in alertness to see; in watchfulness to note the needs of the hour; in the constant, instinctive attitude of mind which spontaneously saw and felt every opportunity to give—whether it were service or sympathy, silence or speech, presence or absence—in short every attribute of character defining utter selflessness, rounded and molded the strong individuality of YERMAH, THE DORADO. When the recluse began to mingle freely with the Brotherhood, he was quickly made aware of all that was transpiring, not only in the pueblo of Cholula, but also among outside colonies. There was never a day when some pilgrim did not climb the zigzag stairways to see, and to receive advice from him. No attention was paid to their comings and goings, and it was not thought unusual when a stranger approached and asked for Yermah. “Cezardis, why hast thou left Tlamco?” asked Yermah, as he embraced his visitor. “I am come to request thee to return. Thou hast many devoted friends there to mourn thy absence.” “Is not Setos master of the councilmen?” “Yes; and he has most grievously taxed and outraged the Azes.” “I am not surprised,” said Yermah, calmly. “He is by nature fiery and imperious, combative and bloodthirsty. The restraining influence of Saturn held him in check for a time, but now it will add malefic tendencies.” “Of late, he has been trying to bring about chemical affinities, investigating secret laws, and dabbling in the knowledge forbidden an earthy mortal. He overeats, and sends in haste for a shaman and priest while all Tlamco waits. He will allow no business transacted when he is sick. Fully half our time is spent in the temples praying for him. We have no choice, as he is the self-appointed guardian of our morals and compels attendance.” Cezardis’s words, looks and actions betrayed his feelings. “How is it with Imos?” “He is given unlimited power, because he allowed Setos to espouse Oahspe, the vestal. This power he uses to advance his own interests.” “Dost thou say Setos hath another wife? I gave him Rahula.” “So thou didst. But she bore him no heir; and on this pretext, Setos has two wives, instead of one; and, he makes it lawful for any man to do the same.” “Poor hot-tempered Rahula! How doth she bear the new affliction?” “She hath obliterated her own individuality until she is an echo whom Setos values no more than the mats under his feet.” Yermah sent Cezardis away for rest and refreshment before giving an answer, when he was again urged to return to Tlamco.