Ijapa answered, ‘My father is ill in hospital. My wife is expecting our third child but she is so hungry that I fear for her very health. And only last night I heard that my mother-in-law is dying of starvation because she does not have enough food to eat! I feel terrible because there is nothing I can do!’

Ehoro was suspicious because it was well known that the tortoise was very cunning and could not always be trusted. But Ijapa was an excellent performer and soon won the rabbit’s sympathy.

‘Meet me at Ore Brook after dark,’ said Ehoro. ‘I will help you in spite of my doubts. I just hope I do not regret this.’