THE ANCIENT ONE 53

“that I, among others, brought such cruel, baseless
charges against Quahl that day in the council meet-
ing. I was wrong when I said that he was lazy and
a coward. No other Haida has ever made a journey
comparable to his. Because of the great wrong that
has been done him, I say to you that it is only right
Quahl should live among us as a carver, released
from all other duties or services to the tribe. It is
honor enough for us that he has seen and carved the
Ancient One, that he will carve totem poles and war
canoes which will make our village famous above
all others.”

“Kowas is right! He has spoken wisely!” shouted
the rest.

“For that I thank you,” said the old chief, proudly.
“Great is the honor you pay my son. Greater than
that, however, is my joy that he has returned, not only
successful in his quest but worthy of the praise of the
entire tribe. Thenceforth he shall be known to all men
as Quahl the Carver, and it shall be his first duty to
carve a totem pole which shall keep the memory of
his amazing journey ever alive in the hearts of the
Haidas as long as Quasset still stands and our people
live in the land.” He turned as Quahl’s mother touched
his arm and directed his glance with her outstretched
hand.

“Go back to your homes,” he commanded, quiet-
ing the clamor of voices with upraised hand. “My son