On the return of the other animals, the Tiger said he would put a stop to this state of things. He would stay at home the next day and keep watch. It would have to be a very strong Giant indeed that would dare to fight him.
The Giant paid his visit as before, and when he found the Tiger at home, he said that he was hungry, and asked for some fish. At first the Tiger refused to give any to him, but when he saw his formidable enemy he was afraid, and let him have as much as he wanted.
On their return again the animals found their fish had been stolen.
Then the Mouse-Deer spoke. “I see,” he said, “that it is no use depending on you others. You boast, but when the time comes for action, you have no courage. I will stay at home and secure this Giant that you speak of.”
When his companions had gone away the next morning, the Mouse-Deer put a bandage round his forehead and lay down.
Soon came the Giant, and shouted: “Who’s there?”
“Only me,” said the Mouse-Deer, groaning with pain. “Come up, whoever you may be.”
The Giant climbed up the rickety steps, and saw the Mouse-Deer lying with his head bandaged.
“What is the matter with you?” asked the Giant.
“I have a headache,” was the answer.