That the Australian natives possessed a vast store of myths and legends is evident from the large number that have been already rescued from oblivion. Many of them were handed down in a rhythmical form, whole or in part, and were therefore easily committed to memory and easily recalled.

Stories like those which follow give a very accurate reflection of aboriginal life. They often show great tenderness, and are lightened by humorous touches. They contain ancient biographical notices and fading memories of tribal history, and in many cases they are the attempts of the native philosopher or naturalist to account for origins.

Some of the legends, or portions of them, I took down in the native dialects, believing that in this form they would be of value to the philologist. The very vocables, in places, have a delightful quaintness. As far as I have been able, I have given an accurate translation. For the titles I am responsible.

It will be observed that the same story assumes different features in different dialects. I would specially direct attention to the two versions of the tale that I have named “The Spiteful Crow.” This is one of the “conflict” myths. Each version contributes special points of interest and helps both to round off and to interpret the tale.