Gayardaree the Platypus
A YOUNG duck used to swim away by herself in the creek. Her tribe told her that Mulloka, the water devil, would catch her some day if she were so venturesome. But she did not heed them.
One day after having swum down some distance, she landed on a bank where she saw some young green grass. She was feeding about when suddenly out rushed from a hidden place Biggoon, an immense water rat, and seized her.
She struggled and struggled, but all in vain. "I live alone," he said; "I want a wife."
"Let me go," said the duck; "I am not for you; my tribe have a mate for me."
"You stay quietly with me, and I will not hurt you. I am lonely here. If you struggle more, or try to escape, I will knock you on the head, or spear you with this little spear I always carry."
"But my tribe will come and fight you, and perhaps kill me."
"Not they. They will think Mulloka has got you. But even if they do come, let them. I am ready." And again he showed his spear.
