A KINGFISHER AND A TERN 171 



latter adroitly dodged, squeaking loudly but without 

 dropping the frog. Then ensued a chase which was a 

 sight for the gods. As regards pace on the wing the 

 kingfisher is no match for the tern. In an aerial 

 contest the slower flier has the advantage of being able 

 to twist and turn more quickly than the rapid flier. 

 Of this advantage the kingfisher availed itself to the 

 full, so that the contest waxed fast and furious, the 

 combatants moving in a series of curves, zigzags, 

 circles, and other geometrical figures. 



The kingfisher, notwithstanding that he had just 

 swallowed a frog, evidently had not the least intention 

 of delivering up his catch. The tern appeared equally 

 determined to capture it. Seeing that he would never 

 be able to enjoy the fruits of his prowess while he 

 remained at the tank, the kingfisher changed his 

 tactics and flew right away, disappearing behind some 

 trees, with the tern in pursuit. The latter, however, 

 did not follow far. He seemed suddenly to come to the 

 conclusion that honesty is the best policy, and returned 

 to the pond to endeavour to secure food in a more 

 legitimate manner. I waited on for about half an hour, 

 expecting to see the kingfisher reappear, but was dis- 

 appointed. Then the tern went to seek pastures new, 

 and left the ducks and a solitary wagtail in possession 

 of the tank. 



