A missionary in a Mexican city, Pastor Dowe gives his sermon to the villagers but gets the feeling that they pay little to his words.  He speaks with Nicolas, who is allegedly the most intelligent man of the crowd, to test his understanding of the sermon. To Dowe's dismay, Nicolas tells him that their God, called Hachakyum, has not created Dowe because he “does not belong here.” Dowe is alarmed further when Nicolas tells him that the people of the city mostly come to his sermons merely to hear the music played after service on his portable phonograph.   Holding back his dissatisfaction, Dowe plays music in between his sermons and his audience’s attention is piqued.  Nicolas then tells him the city people want the salt Dowe keeps in his residence, as salt is scarce in their culture. Yet Dowe does not wish to comply, as he sees the people’s behavior as “haggling." He notes his personal feelings of alienation and isolation. Back in his house, he accidentally steps on his glasses case and finds strange solace in witnessing its “death.” He also realizes that the villagers practice Pagan beliefs, and seeks alone time in his disappointment.  One day, he goes outside and comes across a path. Two villagers act suspiciously nearby and he follows them. Down the path, he finally catches up with the suspicious men and they order him to accompany them on the raft. The waters are turbulent and Dowe fearfully rides the waves without knowing his destination. Finally the Indians lead him off the raft back on land where they lead him into a cave and tell him to speak to “his” god, Metzabok. After their encounter, his guides are satisfied and they take him back to the village. Dowe continues his sermons and distributes his salt and the people are very engaged and enthusiastic. Suddenly, Nicolas demands that Dowe take Martha, who is only a young girl, as his wife. Dowe feels bewildered and refuses. However, the laws are strict and he is advised to listen or face the consequences. The next day Dowe decides he must leave this foreign place where he does not belong and travels down the path with no destination in mind.