The place was shadowy and very silent.

At last with an oath said Francisco de Porras, "Take the gold!" But the Adelantado cried, "No!" and going out of the hut that was almost a house we left the dead cacique and his crown and mantle and golden breastplate.

Two wooden figures at the door grinned upon us.

We saw now what seemed a light brown powder strewed around and across the threshold.

One of our men, stooping, took up a pinch then dropped it hastily.