OTOMIE PLEADS WITH HER PEOPLE When I awoke it was to find myself in a cave, where the light shone very dimly.

Otomie leant over me, and not far away a man was cooking a pot over a fire made of dry aloe leaves.
'Where am I and what has happened ?' I asked.
'You are safe, beloved,' she answered, 'at least for awhile.

When you have eaten I will tell you more.' She brought me broth and food and I ate eagerly, and when I was satisfied she spoke.
'You remember how the Tlascalan followed us and how--I was rid of him ?' 'I remember, Otomie, though how you found strength to kill him I do not understand.' 'Love and despair gave it to me, and I pray that I may never have such another need.

Do not speak of it, husband, for this is more horrible to me than all that has been before.

One thing comforts me, however; I did not kill him, the sword twisted in my hand and I believe that he was but stunned.