Page 66 - English Reader - 7

“Alright then...” And Gogo began. “Kwasuka sukela....”

After God the great Creator finished making all things, he sat back and

took a long look at the world he’d made. He smiled and decided that it
was very good. He was especially pleased with the people, the first man

and woman. They, after all, were the most like himself. “Yes,” he thought,
“This is good! Very good!”

But as time went on, the Creator noticed that man and woman kept
injuring their bodies. Oh, the skin would heal with time, but it always

left scars. And after many years the first man and woman’s bodies were
looking old and tatty indeed! “Hmmm,” thought Creator, “These bodies

are wearing out! Time, I think, for new ones!”

So Creator called Chameleon to himself. “Listen, Chameleon,” said

Creator, “I have a package that I want you to deliver to man and woman.
It is most urgent, so do not delay. Go straight to the people, tell them

I sent you, and give them this parcel from me!” With that he pushed a
small package into Chameleon’s hands. “I trust you, Chameleon, for you

are loyal and swift. Go now!”

So Chameleon set off to do as his Lord bid. In those days Chameleon

was fast as lightning. He sped towards Earth, the parcel neatly tucked

beneath his arm. When he reached the great river he paused to take a
drink. And this proved to be his undoing!

Snake just happened to be drinking at the same time. “Hello, Cousin
Chameleon,” he hissed. “My, you are in a great hurry today! What are you
about?”

Chameleon looked up. “Ah, yebo! Sawubona, Nyoka!” he politely replied.

(sah-woo-boh’-nah nyoh’kah = “Yes, I see you, Snake!” or “Hello, Snake!”)

66 Dolphin English Reader Book 7