The more he protested, the more they brought gifts.

"He is a very great god," they exclaimed.

"He wants nothing from us.

What can we give him that will be an acceptable gift?
Shall we offer him ourselves, our wives, our children ?" As for the women, when they saw how thoroughly frightened of them Muriel now was, they couldn't find means to express their regret and devotion.
Mothers brought their little children, whom she had patted on the head, and offered them, just outside the line, as presents for her acceptance.
They explained to her Shadow that they never meant to hurt her, and that, if only she would venture without the line, as of old, all should be well, and they would love and adore her.

Mali translated to her mistress these speeches and prayers.