Page:Myths and Legends of British North America.djvu/42

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MYTHS AND LEGENDS OF

ORIGIN OF RIVERS IN QUEEN CHARLOTTE ISLANDS

Haida

BEAVER lived in a beautiful house on the shore of a large lake. In the lake were salmon and on the shores were berries of all kinds.

One day Raven disguised himself as a poor, hungry person. He went to Beaver's house. Beaver was just coming home with a fish and berries. Beaver said, "What are you doing here?"

Raven said, "My father has just died. We have the same ancestors. He told me to visit you and ask for food."

Beaver believed Raven and pitied him. He told Raven to stay at home, promising to give him much food. There were always fish in the lake and ripe berries on the shores.

The next day Raven went to the lake. He rolled up the water like a blanket. He took it in his beak and flew away. He alighted on the top of a large cedar tree.

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