[4] Lit., Yoke-tree, like our “axle-tree.” [↑]
[6] In trying to laugh at the man’s doggerel, according to the narrator. [↑]
No. 158
Concerning a Bear and the Queen
At a certain city there were a sister and two brothers. These three one day went to eat Dam̆ba [fruits]. Having gone thus, the two brothers went up the Dam̆ba tree,[1] the sister remained on the ground.
At that time a Bear having come, went off, taking the woman. Having thus gone, placing her in a rock cave he provided subsistence for her. Thereupon the two brothers, being unable to find her, went home.
During the time while the Princess was in the rock cave she was rearing a cock. On yet [another] day the two Princes in order to make search for the Princess went into the midst of the forest. Then having heard the crowing of the cock which the Princess was rearing, they went to that place. At that time the Bear was not there; on account of food it went into the midst of the forest.