Page:Fairytales•Tregear•1891.pdf/87

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THE RAINBOW MAIDEN.
81

face of Kaha appeared, and following its guidance he found the pallid form so precious in his sight. He wrapped it in his shoulder scarf, covering the body with ferns and lovely flowers, then, bearing it in his arms, he took his way to his own house, chanting a song of love and sorrow as he slowly walked along. Arrived at his dwelling, he called in the aid of his brother, a wise priest and seer, who brought to his assistance the powers of magic and the help of two spirit-sisters. Slowly under their spells the life returned to the body of the maiden, the rosy halo again encircled her, and she dwelt with the brothers till health was completely restored. Here, hidden awhile from the world, and ministered to by the unfailing care and watchfulness of Maha, she dwelt in safety. It was a pleasant change from her own dwelling, where she had long patiently borne the watchful attendance and the cumbrous ceremonial befitting her high rank. Wandering by the beaches and playing with the bright waves in the moonlight, or fishing with Maha on the reef by torchlight, her time was spent in peace and gladness.

Often Kaha was intreated to reward her rescuer by becoming his wife, but the traditions of her people had strong hold upon her, and she was unwilling to break what she considered to