The favorite abode of this Manitou is still shown. It is a great
rock or cliff on the loneliest part of the mountains, and, from the
flowering vines which clamber about it, and the wild flowers which
abound in its neighborhood, is known by the name of Garden Rock.
Near the foot of it is a small lake, the haunt of the solitary
bittern, with water-snakes basking in the sun on the leaves of the
pond-lilies which lie on the surface. This place was held in great awe
by the Indians, insomuch that the boldest hunter would not pursue
his game within its precincts. Once upon a time, however, a hunter who
had lost his way, penetrated to the garden rock, where he beheld a
number of gourds placed in the crotches of trees. One of these he
seized and made off with it, but in the hurry of his retreat he let it
fall among the rocks, when a great stream gushed forth, which washed
him away and swept him down precipices, where he was dashed to pieces,
and the stream made its way to the Hudson, and continues to flow to
the present day; being the identical stream known by the name of the
Kaaters-kill.
THE END
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