[1] Kaṭussā (Calotes sp.), a small lizard with a long tail, and spikes on the back, commonly called “Bloodsucker” in Ceylon. [↑]

[2] Perhaps this means that the Leopard found some places where the Lizard had not yet bitten him. [↑]

[3] A variant says it was the Gamarāla. [↑]

[4] “Art thou reciting the Buddhist Scriptures?” Used colloquially with the meaning, “What nonsense you are talking.” [↑]

No. 68

The Lion and the Jackal

While an old Lion was in a rock cave, after a Jackal went there the Lion says, “Anē! Bola, I have been thinking of eating fresh pig’s flesh.” When he said, “When I ran and sprang at some Boars now I couldn’t catch one,” the Jackal said, “If it come near this cave can’t you seize it, Sir?”

“In that way I can still do it. But will a Boar come near me? The thing you are saying would be a wonder.”