If we could solve that, we could find out also the way of escape for you.

For there _is_ a way of escape for every Korong: I know it well; I gather it from all the natives say; it is a part of their mysteries; but what it may be, I have hitherto, in spite of all my efforts, failed to discover.

All I _do_ know is this: Tu-Kila-Kila hates and dreads in his heart every Korong that is elevated to Heaven, and would do anything, if he dared, to get rid of him quietly.

But he doesn't dare, because he is bound hand and foot himself, too, by taboos innumerable.

Taboo is the real god and king of Boupari.
All the island alike bows down to it and worships it." "Have you ever known Korongs killed ?" Felix asked once more, trembling.
"Yes, monsieur.