And, having found out his foible, he
applied himself to become able in good earnest, and studied
_m'teoulin_, or magic, so severely that in time he grew to be an
awful conjurer, so that he could raise ghosts, crops, storms, or devils
whenever he wanted them. [Footnote: The three previous chapters of the
Rabbit legend are from the Micmac. The rest is Passamaquoddy, as told
by Tomah Josephs, who in his narration not only often interpolated
jocose remarks, but was wont to ejaculate "By Jolly!" especially in the
most striking scenes. I think that with him the interjection had become
refined and dignified.] For he had perseverance, and out of this may
come anything, if it be only brought into the right road.
Now it came to pass that Master Rabbit got into great trouble. The
records of the Micmacs say that it was from his stealing a string of
fish from the Otter, who pursued him; but the Passamaquoddies declare
that he was innocent of this evil deed, probably because they make
great account of him as their ancestor and as the father of the
Wabanaki. Howbeit, this is the way in which they tell the tale.
Now the Rabbit is the natural prey of the Loup-Cervier, or Lusifee, who
is a kind of wild cat, none being more obstinate. And this Wild Cat
once went hunting with a gang of wolves, and they got nothing. Then
Wild Cat, who had made them great promises and acted as chief, became
angry, and, thinking of the Rabbit, promised them that this time they
should indeed get their dinner.
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