Kauhi heard of these boasts, and, foolishly giving them credence, determined to punish her by death for having broken the betrothal bond.
The angry lover proceeded to the home of the maiden and, breaking down from a pandanus tree a heavy cone of nuts with a short bough attached to serve him as a weapon, he entered the doorway and awoke Kaha from her morning sleep. So beautiful was she in the rosy glow which surrounded her that his cruel heart failed him, and he proposed that they should take a ramble in the woods together. Knowing his own treacherous purpose, he turned his back upon her while he spoke, and something in his manner frightened the girl with forebodings of evil. “What have I done to displease you?” she said. “Foolish girl, what could you have done to displease me?” he answered. “Nothing, I feel sure,” said Kaha, “but your glance is stern and cold.” It is only your fancy,” the man replied. “Let us go for our stroll in the forest.” He led the way and she followed; she chanting a song intended to soothe his anger and win his affection. They went on till they came to a huge rock in the forest, and then Kauhi stopped and said, “Your face and form are so beautiful that they drive me mad, but
