Page:The Folk-Lore Journal Volume 2 1884.djvu/175

Rh same time, remember that we each possess what is most fitting for us; and so you are able to get food to satisfy you, and I also obtain food to satisfy myself."

And then the chameleon spoke again, and said, "Excuse me, Sir, for while I am not a little one challenging a big one, yet, if it would not make you angry, let us two play a little along this watercourse."

The wild-hog replied, "But what sort of play would you like us to have?"

The chameleon said, "Although you are certainly swift of foot, and I go very slowly, come, let us make a bet about our racing, elder brother."

Then the wild-hog was inwardly angry, and said, "Come, then, let us two go up yonder a little higher to try our speed, for there is a spacious common, while it is boggy where we are just now; and if you should be struck even by the mud thrown up by my feet you will be hurt. So let us go yonder to that spacious ground, and if you overtake me, then take me and all my family for your servants."

Then the chameleon answered, "Why are you angry, elder brother? For you alone I cannot be a match, for you make me afraid; how much more, then, if I had all your family as my servants? But if it is only play we are to engage in, let us then go up yonder to try our speed."

So they went up to the wide common, and agreed together, saying, "At yonder tree-trunk, where the long véro grass is growing, let us make our goal, to see who comes in first." And that being settled, they both arranged themselves in good order, the wild-hog saying, "Now, shall we run off?"

Then said the chameleon, "Wait a little first, that I may look well at yonder stepping-place." But the chameleon was crafty, and climbed up the long grass close to the mane of the wild-hog. And when he was securely fixed in the mane, he said, "Now run, elder brother!" And as the wild-hog galloped away the chameleon kept fast hold of his mane and tail; and when he came yonder to the appointed place he leaped off on to the long grass. So, as the wild-hog stood looking behind him, the chameleon said, "Don't look behind for me, elder brother, for here I am in front of you"; so the