Tiger And Python At Raffles Hotel
In August 1902, the last tiger to be killed in
Singapore was pursued at Raffles Hotel and was finally shot while cowering under the Bar
& Billiard Room, then an elevated building.
Snake
- As the 'kebun' went to water the big potted palms in front of
the Hotel at 6 am, he noticed something. Assuming that it was a coat, he stooped to pick
it up.
- When that 'coat' awoke with a hiss and uncoiled itself
into a beautiful python about 15 feet long, the 'kebun' dropped his water can and shouted
for help.
- His shout was heard and echoed by all the 'boys' about the
Hotel at that time.
- A gentleman going downstairs to the bar, saw the reptile. He
blinked, turned on his heels and flew up the stairs.
- Another gentleman, who seemed to be accustomed to shooting
every snake on sight came on the scene with a six shooter and potted at the retiring
reptile from a respectable distance, although ignored by it with scornful contempt.
- But calmly and quietly came a 'tukang ayer' and two 'kebuns'
who for the exorbitant demand of $1 , offered to catch the python alive.
- With some rattan, a stout length of bamboo and their wits,
the 'kebuns' stalked and caught the python.
