The birds were already cleaned for their early supper, and a thick slice of venison steak was added to the menu.
During the preparation of the meal Rod described their discovery of the chasm and revealed some of his thoughts concerning it, but Wabi betrayed only passing flashes of interest.

At times he seemed strangely preoccupied and would stand in an idle, contemplative mood, his hands buried deep in his pockets, while Rod or Mukoki proceeded with the little duties about the table or the stove.

Finally, after arousing himself from one of these momentary spells, he pulled a brass shell from his pocket and held it out to the old Indian.
"See here," he said.

"I don't want to stir up any false fears, or anything of that sort--but I found that on the trail to-day!" Mukoki clutched at the shell as though it had been another newly found nugget of gold.

The shell was empty.