"
Then she bowed in a stately fashion an departed, walking with the proud,
light step of a deer.
From our little hut I took out my armour and with Kari's help, put
it on, because he declared that thus it would be more easily carried,
though I think he had other reasons in his mind.
"Yes," I answered, "unless the _balsa_ oversets, when I shall find mail
hard to swim in."
"The _balsa_ will not overset, sailing beneath the moon with that
Moon-lady for a pilot," he replied heavily. "Had the sun been up, it
might have been different. Moreover, the path into a net is always wide
and easy."
"What net?" I asked.
"One that is woven of women's hair, I think. Already, if I mistake not,
such a net has been about your throat, Master, and next time it will
stay there. Hearken now to me. The gods thrust us into high matters. The
Yuncas of whose chief this lady is a guest are a great people whom my
people have conquered in war, but who wait the opportunity to rebel,
if they have not already done so. The Chancas, of those king she is the
daughter, are a still greater people who for years have threatened war
upon my people.
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