SCENE I
Reading edition
TIME: one morning. PLACE: the east bank of the river.
THE JACKAL. THE CAMEL.
[The JACKAL stands on the river bank. He looks longingly toward the west shore.]
JACKAL. Ah, if I could only get at those crabs over there! It makes me hungry just to see them! Now if I could only swim! Or if I could walk on water! Or if I had a little canoe!
[Enter the CAMEL. The Jackal whispers to himself.]
Aha! Now I know the way to get across.
(To the Camel.)
Such news as I have for you, dear friend!
CAMEL. Must I guess?
JACKAL. No, I'll tell you this time. Listen: I know a spot where the sugar-cane grows thick.
CAMEL. Tell me! I cannot wait! Tell me!
JACKAL. I cannot. I'll have to show you. It is on the other side of the river.
CAMEL. Why, then, I'll swim across and take you on my back.
JACKAL. Just the very thing!
CAMEL. Come, then! It makes me hungry just to hear of sugar-cane.
[He kneels for the Jackal to get upon his back.]