But this time he caught, if not the
hair, at least the hair-string, of the fairest, which remained in his
hand. And, gazing on this, it came into his mind that he had got that
which was her charm, or life, and that she could not live without it,
[Footnote: The magic hair-string plays a part in many of these tales.
It belongs to the sorcery of all the world in all ages.] or her
cherished _sakultobee_ (M.). And taking it home, he tied it to the
place in the wigwam above that wherein he slept. Nor had he waited long
before she came, and, with little ado, remained with him as his wife.
Now Pulowech, being himself addicted to sorcery, knew that there were
divers knaves of the same stamp prowling about the woods, who would
make short work of a wife if they could find a plump young one in the
way,--they being robbers, ravishers, and cannibals withal. Therefore he
warned his bride to keep well within doors when he was away, and to
open to none, which she, poor soul, meant to obey with all her might.
But being alone at midnight, and hearing a call outside, even
"_Pantahdooe_!" M., "Open the door to me!" she wondered greatly who
it might be. And it was a very wicked wizard, a _boo-oin_, or
pow-wow; and he, being subtle and crafty, and knowing of her family,
so imitated the voices of her brothers and sisters; beseeching her to let
them in, that her very heart ached.
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