(Here the speaker notches the tree.)
“If it be not better
You shall be a rebel unto God,” etc.[184]
The Cocoa-nut Palm
The following instructions to be followed by toddy-collectors (who tap the Cocoa-nut palm for its juice, which is boiled into sugar) were given me by a Kelantan Malay (’Che ʿAbas of Klanang):—
“When you are about to set foot against the base of the trunk (i.e. to start climbing) repeat these lines:—
“Peace be with you, O Abubakar!
Drowse not as you keep watch and ward in the heart of this tree (umbi).”
Here climb half-way up and say:—