men will surely choose my brother, for he is more known in war.
Fail me not, therefore."

"Peace, boy!" said Morven, sternly; "nor dare to question the
truth of the gods of night."

For Morven now began to presume on his power among the people,
and to speak as rulers speak, even to the sons of kings.

And the voice silenced the fiery Siror, nor dared he to reply.

"Behold," said Morven, taking up a chaplet of colored plumes,
"wear this on thy head, and put on a brave face--for the people
like a hopeful spirit--and go down with thy brother to the place
where the new king is to be chosen, and leave the rest to the
stars.

"But, above all things, forget not that chaplet; it has been
blessed by the gods of night."

The prince took the chaplet and returned home.

It was evening and the warriors and chiefs of the tribe were
assembled in the place where the new king was to be elected.

And the voices of the many favored Prince Voltoch, the brother
of Siror, for he had slain twelve foeman with his spear; and
verily, in those days, that was a great virtue in a king.

Suddenly there was a shout in the streets, and the people cried