Seventeen years among the Sea Dyaks of Borneo; a ... - Sabrizain.org

DYAK FOLKLORE 255
The Story of the Mouse-Deer and other Animals
who went out flshing.
Once upon a time the Mouse-Deer, accompanied by
many other animals, went on a fishing expedition.
All
day long they fished, and in the evening returned to the
little hut that they had put up by the river-side, salted
the fish that they had caught, and stored it up in their
jars. They noticed that somehow or other their fish dis-
and the animals held a council to
appeared day by day,
decide what it was best to do. After some discussion the
Deer said he would stay behind while the others went out
to fish, so that he might catch the thief.
"
I shall be able to master him, whoever he is," said
the Deer.
'"
If he refuses to do what I wish,
I shall soon
punish him with my sharp horns."
So the others went out fishing, leaving the Deer at
home. Soon he heard the tramp of someone coming to
the foot of the steps leading up into the hut, calling
out :
" Is anyone at home V
" I am here," said the Deer. Looking out, he saw a
great Giant, and his heart failed him. He wished he had
asked one of his companions to stay at home with
him.
" I smell some fish," said the Giant.
'
I want some,
and I must have it. I am hungry. Let me have what I
want."
" It does not belong to me," said the Deer in great fear.
" It belongs to the Pig, the Bear, the Tiger, and the
Mouse-Deer. They would punish me severely if I gave
any of it to you."
" Don't talk to me in that way. If you do not let