TIME: one morning.
PLACE: the east bank of the river.


THE JACKAL.
THE CAMEL.


[The JACKAL stands on the river bank. He looks longingly toward the west shore.]

JACKAL. Ah, if I could only get at those crabs over there! It makes me hungry just to see them! Now if I could only swim! Or if I could walk on water! Or if I had a little canoe!

[Enter the CAMEL. The Jackal whispers to himself.]

Aha! Now I know the way to get across.

(To the Camel.)

Such news as I have for you, dear friend!