"Come with me," directed Ero Shan, and we crossed the anteroom to
another door which a clerk opened. In the room beyond a man faced us
from a desk behind which he was seated. He looked up at us with the
same friendly interest that had been manifested by the people we had
passed in the park and the corridor.
As we were introduced to Korgan Kantum Mohar he arose and acknowledged
the introduction with a bow; then he invited us to be seated.
"You are strangers in Havatoo," he remarked. "It is not often that
strangers enter our gates." He turned to Ero Shan. "Tell me, how did it
happen?"
Ero Shan told of witnessing my encounter with the three men from
Kormor. "I hated to see a man like this go over the falls," he
continued, "and I felt that it was worth while bringing them into
Havatoo for an examination. Therefore I have brought them directly to
you, hoping that you will agree with me."
"It can do no harm," admitted Mohar. "The examining board is in session
now. Take them over. I will advise the board that I have authorized the
examination."
"What is the examination, and what is its purpose?" I asked. "Perhaps
we do not care to take it."
Korgan Kantum Mohar smiled. "It is not for you to say," he said.
"You mean that we are prisoners?"
"Let us say rather guests by command."
"Do you mind telling me the purpose of this examination?" I asked.
"Not at all. It is to determine whether or not you shall be permitted
to live."