Page 37 - Malay sketches

A FISHING PICNIC

at least should be there, the boldest and best divers
will search the bottom of the and even look into
pool
the water-filled caves of the rock that there rises
sheer out of the stream. Success rewards this
effort, and, from the bed of the pool, some sixteen
or eighteen feet deep, the divers bring up two at a

time, great silvery fish weighing ten to fifteen pounds
each. There is much joy over the capture of these
klah and the best kinds of fresh water fish
tengas,
known here, and, if the total take is not a large
one, the operation will be repeated in another and
another
yet pool, until a sufficient quantity of fish
has been secured and one tired of the
every is
water.
There is a general change of wet garments for
dry ones, no difficult matter, while long before this
fires have been made on the bank, rice is boiling,
fish are roasting in split sticks, grilling, frying, and
the hungry company is settling itself in groups
ready for the meal. It is a matter of honour that
no plates should be used, so every one has a piece of
fresh green plantain leaf to hold his rice and salt and
fish, while nature supplies the forks and spoons.
Whether it is the exercise, the excitement, or the
coldness of the two hours' that is most re-
bath,
sponsible for the keen appetites is not worth
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