Won Through A Snake.

Otago Witness, Issue 2058, 3 August 1893, Page 49

Won Through A Snake.

I had once an edd and rather terrible experience while playing a game of draughts when with my regiment in an outlying district of Bengal. There were only three of us in the bungalow, the third being a young officer who sat by my Bide and intently followed the game, until, at a critical period, where I had two chances and seemed puzzled to know which to take, he gave me a touch on the leg with his foot as a reminder to be careful and take the right one. I felt angry, bo instead of taking the hint I gave him a sharp push in return with: my foot, and took the wrong man off the board.

At last I was "cornered." I had two moves more, but ifc looked like certain defeat eithef way to me when I again felt that touch on my leg.- Then I thought I must have a chance, being again reminded ; and I had. I could see it now. and I took it and won.

"It was lucky you gave me that hint," I whispered. " I was about to try the other move."

ll I gave no hint that time, as you seemed angry before," said the officer. "Well, I certainly felt you touch me." "No, I Bat what's that?" he cried, starting up. Something was gliding from under the table, it's body glittering in the lamplight. I shrank back with horror. It was a large cobra.

I took the "hint" from it and won. But I have often thought what it might have cost me had I resented it.