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THE SPIRIT OF THE CAVE.

the light of day from the depths of the unseen world.

Rangi resolved to thoroughly explore every corner of his new realm, and for this purpose he journeyed ceaselessly about and endeavoured to make himself acquainted with every nook and crevice of his territory. Principally his wish was to ascertain if the land held any inhabitants with whom he might hold friendly intercourse, for although possessed of powers not held by ordinary mortals he felt the burden of solitude too great for his endurance. One day while travelling along the northern division of his domains he came to a pile of rocks overhanging an enormous gorge, a most romantic and beautiful place, amid the wild scenery of which the waters of the adjoining valleys flowed seaward. Hidden among the boulders of this wild spot is the point of convergence of several extensive caves.

Always being in the hope of discovering by surprise some human creatures, or of finding traces of human occupation Rangi sent out his voice in a loud cry of “O! O!” Instantly came an answer from the rocks “O! O!” Rangi called lustily “What is your name?” A reply came in tones which resembled the voice of a defiant woman, “What is your name?” The King