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Rh. Waterfalls on the grandest scale possible had come into existence, lakes and ravines were numerous, and the precious things and secrets of the interior of the earth were thrown to the surface. Vegetation was growing with unprecedented rapidity, and this was now by far the most wonderful territory in Neuroomia.

Alvarez now joined us, and on arriving at the entrance, Yeyema and Vandalia passed in towards the reception-room. I suggested a walk to the romantic valley. On the way she gave me an account of her last interview with Onneyubla. With regard to ladies accompanying the land expedition he would take no action, but leave the matter for Yondozi to decide, who she knew would be averse to the proposal on the ground of the delay it might cause. However, she and many others had already decided to pass the approaching falls of this season in the mountains, by way of atoning in a measure for the disappointments she had experienced.

On our return to the palace, there was evidently much more stir than when we left it. Numbers of visitors were arriving and leaving, while many appeared to be busy. We knew that something unusual was about to take place.

Yondozi noticed us approaching; and advanced