I was thinking how I could best attract their attention, when one of them saw me, and with a hoarse cry, gave the alarm to his companions. Instantly those who had been eating stopped, and those who were asleep awoke. They all looked at me, and in those looks I could see no sign of sympathy for him who had disturbed them. I was on the point of taking flight—but hunger held me fast, and I said humbly, in elephant language, something like this:
"My Brothers, I am a very unfortunate and friendless creature, who has no wish to offend you. I have been for a long time wandering about, without food or shelter, and if you do not assist me I shall soon die of hunger. Have pity upon me! Give me a little of your provisions, and I will in return be glad to render you any service in my power!"
These words had no effect. They said to themselves:
"This is a White Elephant—and no doubt sick; at any rate he is not like us. Why should we allow him to come among us?"
"HE IS WHITE, AND THAT IS ALL THE MORE REASON FOR SENDING HIM OFF"
One Elephant, who was taller and more powerful than the others, and who seemed to be a leader among them, said roughly: