But in reality he remained as a spy, to cross-examine in a covert way.

Shotaye was wary, and not one contradiction, not one misstatement, could he detect during their talk.

Then he went where the council had gathered, reporting that according to his conviction the woman was not only sincere, but exceedingly well-informed.
It would be superfluous to enter into details concerning the proceedings of the council.

Its composition and the formalities were in the main similar to those of the council of the Queres.

One point was earnestly discussed,--the propriety of sending a messenger to the Queres to clear up, if possible, the misunderstanding.