Page:Life in Java Volume 1.djvu/261

Rh and considerate alligator and fish. 'You are destined for some great end.'

Saying this, they led him in safety to the hank, and there untied the cords by which he was bound.

"'Stay a moment,' said the alligator, as he disappeared in a deep part of the water, quickly reappearing with a pair of tumpak cunchang, or floating shoes, which he put on Amman's feet, telling him that with these he could traverse the broadest river and widest ocean as easily as though he were walking on dry land.

"Amman thanked the alligator and fish for their kindness, and stepping on the water, commenced his progress down the river, the mouth of which he soon reached. Venturing out on the ocean, he wandered about on its surface with no fixed purpose. In a short time, however, he conceived in his heart a violent longing for the sight of a human being Catching sight presently of a native vessel, he turned his steps in its direction, Rh