80 Nature Myths and Stories.

When the coyote had rested before the fire for
some time, he said, “The Cahroc nation need fire.
Could you not give them one small spark? You
would never miss it. Here it is of no use.”

The beldams answered, “We do not love it, but
we dare not give it away. We must guard it while
we live.”

The coyote had expected them to say this.

He sprang to the window, and instantly outside
were heard such sounds, that the beldams rushed
out to see what the frightful noise could be.

Each animal in the line was sounding the watch-
word of fire in his own way.

The wild horse neighed, the mountain lion roared,
the gray wolf howled, the serpent hissed, the
buffalo bellowed, and every small animal did its
part equally well.

Indeed, it is no Woneer that the beldams were
frightened nearly to death.

The Cahroc man brought water and told them
not to fear for themselves.

The coyote seized a half-burned brand and was
off in an instant.

The beldams sprang after him and followed him

closely over hill and valley. Faster than the wind
they flew.

They were stronger than he, and though he om
all his wild-wood nerve to the strain, they ie
gained.