In their stamping grounds in the jungle the three were familiar
figures. The little monkeys knew them well, often coming close to
chatter and frolic about them. When Akut was by, the small folk
kept their distance, but with Korak they were less shy and when
both the males were gone they would come close to Meriem, tugging
at her ornaments or playing with Geeka, who was a never ending
source of amusement to them. The girl played with them and fed
them, and when she was alone they helped her to pass the long hours
until Korak's return.
Nor were they worthless as friends. In the hunt they helped her
locate her quarry. Often they would come racing through the trees
to her side to announce the near presence of antelope or giraffe,
or with excited warnings of the proximity of Sheeta or Numa.
Luscious, sun-kissed fruits which hung far out upon the frail bough
of the jungle's waving crest were brought to her by these tiny,
nimble allies. Sometimes they played tricks upon her; but she
was always kind and gentle with them and in their wild, half-human
way they were kind to her and affectionate.
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