on the hides, and Klayukat was reciting the story as he stitched on his saddlebags.
In the ancient days Tick was a great monster. He lived on the sheltered side of a mountain and kept large herds of deer, elk, mountain sheep, and other animals that are good for food. No matter how hungry the people in the valley might be, Tick could always satisfy himself by going out among his herds and killing a fat animal.
One parching summer Coyote was nearly starving. He thought to himself: "Tick has plenty to eat, and he does no good to the animals. I will go to his house and kill him and take his herds."
He toiled up the mountain and found Tick just out of the sweat-house and ready for a plunge into the lake.
"Good morning," said Coyote. "I am tired and dusty. May I have a sweat and a bath to refresh me for the rest of my journey?"
"You may," replied Tick, "if you will heat the rocks yourself. I have to take my bath."
"Thank you; that I will do," answered Coyote, as he began to pile the stones on the smoldering fire. When the rocks were heated, he placed them in the sweat-house. Then he went in and closed the door tight.
