Note 186 — 20

Aponītolau said to Aponībolinayen, “I wonder why Kanag does not like to eat.” “I think he is sorrowful, because he was sent to watch the mountain rice.” “What is the reason that you sent him to the field when the fences are strong and no wild pigs can get in,” said Aponībolinayen. “You must cook and we will eat, and then I will go and get him.” Aponībolinayen went to cook. As soon as she finished cooking they ate and after that Aponītolau took some rice and meat for Kanag to eat. Aponībolinayen said to him, “As soon as he finishes eating bring him home. Do not let him stay there alone. That is why he does not wish to eat.” Aponītolau said, “Yes,” and so he went. When he arrived at the field he could not see Kanag any more. He called to him, and the little boy answered him from the top of the bamboo tree. His father felt very sorry that he had become a little bird. “Why did you become a little bird, Kanag? Come and eat. I will not send you here any more.” Kanag said, “I do not wish to eat and I would rather be a bird and carry the signs to everyone.” So his father went back home and he was sorrowful. As soon as Aponītolau arrived in Kadalayapan he said to Aponībolinayen, “Kanag has become a bird. Perhaps he felt sorry because we sent him to watch the rice. He said that when I am going to war he will fly over me, and he will give me the good and bad signs.”186