“It is not easy to ascertain the date of our computations and measurements,” said Ben Hu Barabe. “But the land in dispute is not much, at any rate. If Eko Tanga insists that his government has some unsettled claim against the Monbas, I am willing that thou shouldst decide it,” he said to Yermah. “The difference is considerable between the calculation of one one-hundred millionths and one of one-fifty millionths. And there is a variance between The Twins and Hotara as central points,” Yermah replied. “In my time the place of the sun in the center of Tlamco has been the point of vantage. Computations of the diameters of the heavenly hosts are here accurately given.” “From the beginning until now, the Monbas have reckoned all their happenings by this picture,” said Ben Hu Barabe, his voice again showing signs of irritation. “It is held in our inner hearts with profound reverence, and it is a vexation of spirit to have it questioned. Eko Tanga has little respect for the traditions and pride of the mountain people.” “The high-priestess Kerœcia, will then lend us her counsel,” said Yermah, soothingly. “She is of the blood of Ian, but she loves the Monbas well. Her serene countenance confronts us,” he added hastily, as the crowd separated to make room for the high-priestess and the entire party from the gardens. Every woman knows that it was not the fresh air, only, which gave the color to Kerœcia’s cheek, and made her eyes sparkle like tiny stars as she permitted Yermah to conduct her to a seat beside him under the grand canopy. All Tlamco had a feeling of satisfaction in the manner and the method of his escort. Some time elapsed before either could sufficiently acknowledge the applause spontaneously given; but when the Dorado held up his hand commanding silence, the stillness was absolute. “Comrades and friends, a difference of opinion exists between the emissary of Ian, Eko Tanga, and Ben Hu Barabe, Chief of the Monbas, as to the hereditary rights of each to the lands now held by the Azes. Before our beloved Tlamco rested among the seven hills, there were wise men who noted the ways of the sun, and his attendants, and decreed that thus far, and no farther should the limits extend. No one disputed the rights of the Monbas. They made The Twins their own, and no one murmured. Then appeared the hordes of Ian. They came through the trackless forest of the Aleuts, following the warm tide southward. The snow-peaks of Elias, Tacoma, and Shasta[5] pointed the way and after many days they came to the end of the Monbas possessions.” Among the Monbas there was a tempestuous wave of displeasure against the revival of old scores and the ill-will was as heartily returned by Eko Tanga’s attendants. As for principles, their faces effectually masked the feelings while they gave Yermah their undivided attention.