Saturday, May 23, 2009
Friday, May 22, 2009
Chapter 20 First Job in Taiping,Perak
Immediately after the final papers Fabian left with brother for Kuala Lumpur to spent their holidays with their Auntie.As usual they were staying at Setapak.This time around his friend Alex have shifted away.
Life was quiet in Kuala Lumpur and they left to play around on their own.This time another cousin was around because he had activities in school.This boy was from a rich family and always showing off to the two poor brothers.Rich kids arrogant just wanted to show all the stuffs he had in his procession and bragged about them.
Fabian was quite annoyed at his attitude,very often also showing his cash in his wallet.Worst of all he was discarding his wallet around carelessly.Fabian got fed up of his behavior and wanted to teach him a lesson.
So one fine afternoon as that cousin threw his wallet on the dressing table,Fabian silently removed $50/= from his wallet and went outside to play.While playing with the others Fabian hide that note in his dirty pair of shoes.Fabian had seldom kept them cleaned so no one will think of looking into it.
Following that cousin went for swimming at his school and discovered his lost there.Apparently he searched every where for it.Finally he returned to report his lost to the Auntie.The Auntie of course questioned every one including Fabian.Of course Fabian denied any knowledge of it.
Next day while Fabian was out in Kuala Lumpur his Auntie's servant checked Fabian and Francis belongings but there was no money.Fabian knew it because he knew how he placed his things and should anyone touched them,he will know the difference.
His Auntie even planned to consult a "bomoh" to trace that note.Fabian was aware his Auntie would only pulling a fast one to trick any one taking the note to hand it out.But Auntie would never do that because she was protective of her nephews.Whoever the thieves she hoped would not be one of her nephews.
In her mind she suspected Fabian did it but she did not want to expose him nor had she the prove to identify him.The note was lying deep in that dirty pair of shoes.Dirty pair of shoes were the safest place to hide anything and no one will bother to look into them.
Later that cousin returned home to his home town.Fabian and Francis went with their Auntie's family to Port Dickson for another short weekend.Those days the sea shores were still very clean unlike to day rubbish and broken bottles every where.Sewage water draining into the sea were considerably small.It surely was very nice to swim in the sea those days.
Present together were their Uncle's friends with their children,many lovely girls,but these girls did not attract Fabian at all.For in his mind there was only one little girl back home.He was very eager to get home as soon as possible.
It was nearing the end of the school holidays when a stranger came calling at her uncle's house.He claimed to be a member of a rich household from Taiping,Perak.He was a smooth speaker and can influenced Fabian's Auntie into believing he was really from Taiping.
Out of curiosity Fabian's Auntie requested that he arranged a job for Fabian,which he agreed without reluctance, acknowledge that he was well related with so and so,and could easily get Fabian a job.He offered to take Fabian to that Company immediately.That pleased Fabian's Auntie very much.
Later his subject turn to supplying rice, good grade rice from Perak,that prompted Fabian's Auntie to order a bag from him.He requested for some money first which she gave without second thought.She gave him two hundred dollars with Fabian following him she must have thought that her money would not be saved.
Fabian like a obedient boy followed that man out.However he stopped at the nearest coffee shop for a drink.He ordered a drink for Fabian and one for himself.After sipping his drink he paid for the drinks and excused himself to the washroom.Alas he never came back,Fabian by now knew they had fallen into the tricks of a confidence trickster.
The news saddened his Auntie very much but she never blamed his nephew.Soon the news of her being tricked reached the real rich man from Taiping,Perak.When in Kuala Lumpur he called at Fabian's Auntie's residence.Fabian was still holidaying there and his Auntie introduced Fabian to him'
On seeing Fabian he agreed to employ Fabian in his plantations in Taiping.So Fabian finally got a job.He was to report for duty after Chinese New Year.
Within those final week in Kuala Lumpur Fabian went out and brought himself a cheap shirt and one for his younger brother with the money he stole.
As the shirts were cheap shirts his Auntie never questioned him about the money he had for those purchases.It was less than ten dollars anyway.The balance of money Fabian hide in his dirty pair of shoes,leaving a few cents in his pocket.
Back in Teluk Anson,Fabian brought himself a pair of Apache shoes.The black shoes with white tops similar to the pair worn by Elvis Presley.Further he gave his friends a treat and he spent his Chinese New Year in Teluk Anson.
Thereafter he left for Taiping after taking a good look at his love before leaving.He left with a heavy heart and promised to do good never to rejoin any bad hats again.Keeping away from gangster he did but winning her love he failed miserably.
Life was quiet in Kuala Lumpur and they left to play around on their own.This time another cousin was around because he had activities in school.This boy was from a rich family and always showing off to the two poor brothers.Rich kids arrogant just wanted to show all the stuffs he had in his procession and bragged about them.
Fabian was quite annoyed at his attitude,very often also showing his cash in his wallet.Worst of all he was discarding his wallet around carelessly.Fabian got fed up of his behavior and wanted to teach him a lesson.
So one fine afternoon as that cousin threw his wallet on the dressing table,Fabian silently removed $50/= from his wallet and went outside to play.While playing with the others Fabian hide that note in his dirty pair of shoes.Fabian had seldom kept them cleaned so no one will think of looking into it.
Following that cousin went for swimming at his school and discovered his lost there.Apparently he searched every where for it.Finally he returned to report his lost to the Auntie.The Auntie of course questioned every one including Fabian.Of course Fabian denied any knowledge of it.
Next day while Fabian was out in Kuala Lumpur his Auntie's servant checked Fabian and Francis belongings but there was no money.Fabian knew it because he knew how he placed his things and should anyone touched them,he will know the difference.
His Auntie even planned to consult a "bomoh" to trace that note.Fabian was aware his Auntie would only pulling a fast one to trick any one taking the note to hand it out.But Auntie would never do that because she was protective of her nephews.Whoever the thieves she hoped would not be one of her nephews.
In her mind she suspected Fabian did it but she did not want to expose him nor had she the prove to identify him.The note was lying deep in that dirty pair of shoes.Dirty pair of shoes were the safest place to hide anything and no one will bother to look into them.
Later that cousin returned home to his home town.Fabian and Francis went with their Auntie's family to Port Dickson for another short weekend.Those days the sea shores were still very clean unlike to day rubbish and broken bottles every where.Sewage water draining into the sea were considerably small.It surely was very nice to swim in the sea those days.
Present together were their Uncle's friends with their children,many lovely girls,but these girls did not attract Fabian at all.For in his mind there was only one little girl back home.He was very eager to get home as soon as possible.
It was nearing the end of the school holidays when a stranger came calling at her uncle's house.He claimed to be a member of a rich household from Taiping,Perak.He was a smooth speaker and can influenced Fabian's Auntie into believing he was really from Taiping.
Out of curiosity Fabian's Auntie requested that he arranged a job for Fabian,which he agreed without reluctance, acknowledge that he was well related with so and so,and could easily get Fabian a job.He offered to take Fabian to that Company immediately.That pleased Fabian's Auntie very much.
Later his subject turn to supplying rice, good grade rice from Perak,that prompted Fabian's Auntie to order a bag from him.He requested for some money first which she gave without second thought.She gave him two hundred dollars with Fabian following him she must have thought that her money would not be saved.
Fabian like a obedient boy followed that man out.However he stopped at the nearest coffee shop for a drink.He ordered a drink for Fabian and one for himself.After sipping his drink he paid for the drinks and excused himself to the washroom.Alas he never came back,Fabian by now knew they had fallen into the tricks of a confidence trickster.
The news saddened his Auntie very much but she never blamed his nephew.Soon the news of her being tricked reached the real rich man from Taiping,Perak.When in Kuala Lumpur he called at Fabian's Auntie's residence.Fabian was still holidaying there and his Auntie introduced Fabian to him'
On seeing Fabian he agreed to employ Fabian in his plantations in Taiping.So Fabian finally got a job.He was to report for duty after Chinese New Year.
Within those final week in Kuala Lumpur Fabian went out and brought himself a cheap shirt and one for his younger brother with the money he stole.
As the shirts were cheap shirts his Auntie never questioned him about the money he had for those purchases.It was less than ten dollars anyway.The balance of money Fabian hide in his dirty pair of shoes,leaving a few cents in his pocket.
Back in Teluk Anson,Fabian brought himself a pair of Apache shoes.The black shoes with white tops similar to the pair worn by Elvis Presley.Further he gave his friends a treat and he spent his Chinese New Year in Teluk Anson.
Thereafter he left for Taiping after taking a good look at his love before leaving.He left with a heavy heart and promised to do good never to rejoin any bad hats again.Keeping away from gangster he did but winning her love he failed miserably.
Chapter 19 Shifting Houses Again
Before the final examination Fabian's family shifted again.This time they shifted to a room on the first floor in a wooden house in Pasir Bedamar Road.Only the two brothers were to reside there.Both parents were working elsewhere.
For food they had to eat at their Auntie's house at the Government quarters.Both brothers had bicycles to cycle to school and to their Auntie's residence.Life was hard.
For Fabian he had only two months more to do his final examinations.Residing in that house were of no problems to the brothers.
It was a quiet place and staying in a room upstairs was quite comfortable.Sharing the same floor were a newly married couple with a small baby .The front room was occupied by the owner's beautiful daughter and son.Both almost similar in age with Fabian.
Those were friendly people and easily became Fabian's friend,especially the daughter.She appeared interested ion prolonging her friendship with Fabian,but Fabian had some one in mind so showed no interest whatsoever in her.She made several attempts to be friendly but Fabian turned a cold shoulder towards her.
Fabian continued to mix with his friends and gang.Roaming till very late at night and returning to study at home thereafter.In the early part of the evening he will go round with Hooi and cousin brother John.Like always Fabian learned to sing through Hooi.
Fabian also went round town with his gang but after that gang fight incidense they now acted smarter keeping away from unwanted fights with anyone.Because of the tight relationship among them,other gangs never interfered with them.The man who wanted to start a new gang never bothered them again.
Fabian had no problems at the new place of stay accept that one day he went into the neighbor's house by mistake.The house was of similar designed,also a wooden house.The astonished occupants of that house asked him,"Hey!,who are you?".
"I stay here ",said Fabian."Where?"asked that occupant.
"Up stair,in that corner room"said Fabian."But I have not seen you before",came the reply.Just then Fabian noticed the beautiful girl of the next house beckoning to him that he had entered the wrong house.
Noticing the mistake Fabian apologized to those occupants,fortunate for him that girl came over and acknowledge that Fabian was the new tenant of her house and that entering their house was truly a mistake.Fabian thanked her for the help saying."Luckily you are around otherwise,I will surely to be in trouble".
"You are new here,that why you made that mistake.Lucky for you as I had just returned home after supper",said that girl."Well.next time I would not make that silly mistake again but should it happened again I call out to you,surely you will help me again.Next time round I take you for supper,alright?"asked Fabian.
"Okay,be sure you call me",said the girl.Did he called her?No never Fabian spent his last few days with his friends before leaving for Taiping.
Hooi took him to see Koong who like Fabian was also preparing for his examinations.Koong resided on the other side of Perak river not far from the Chinese Temple by the river side.His house actually was very near to Pasir Bedamar road.Fabian went there to swim as as well as to revised his lessons with Koong.
Koong also an excellent swimmer,that was why they clique up very well.They swam only when the tide was high.Here there were no mangrove trees to dive from,but they had an alternative they all dived from bamboo rafts.The bamboo floating in the river tight to stakes provided very good resting and diving for the swimmers there.
The place also an excellent fishing ground and fishes caught were very big.That was because near by was a pig slaughter house,thus supplying plenty of food for fishes.Another thing was Malays do not fished there because they were taboo against pigs.
Koong was better swimmer than Fabian and had beaten Fabian time and again in any competitions.Apparently he learned how to swim since six or seven years old,therefore well adapted to water.It was him who couched Fabian in other subjects of the examinations.He came from St.Anthony School.
Thus those were the final days Fabian in Teluk Anson as a teenager.
With Fabian gone to work in the plantation Francis was thus alone,but the Auntie in Teluk Anson came to his rescue and gave him lodging thereafter.Therefore the family shifted to be with the Auntie.Only one person so there was so problem in taking him in,for he could share room with the other cousin brothers.
Within the next two years the family again shifted to a rented house along Immigrant Road,because by then their elder sister had returned from U.K. and was teaching in Convent School.By then Francis also got a job as temporary teacher for overage students at Horley Methodist School,teaching only afternoon classes.
With all children working their parents stopped working as the family could now depend on their children.
To continue later
For food they had to eat at their Auntie's house at the Government quarters.Both brothers had bicycles to cycle to school and to their Auntie's residence.Life was hard.
For Fabian he had only two months more to do his final examinations.Residing in that house were of no problems to the brothers.
It was a quiet place and staying in a room upstairs was quite comfortable.Sharing the same floor were a newly married couple with a small baby .The front room was occupied by the owner's beautiful daughter and son.Both almost similar in age with Fabian.
Those were friendly people and easily became Fabian's friend,especially the daughter.She appeared interested ion prolonging her friendship with Fabian,but Fabian had some one in mind so showed no interest whatsoever in her.She made several attempts to be friendly but Fabian turned a cold shoulder towards her.
Fabian continued to mix with his friends and gang.Roaming till very late at night and returning to study at home thereafter.In the early part of the evening he will go round with Hooi and cousin brother John.Like always Fabian learned to sing through Hooi.
Fabian also went round town with his gang but after that gang fight incidense they now acted smarter keeping away from unwanted fights with anyone.Because of the tight relationship among them,other gangs never interfered with them.The man who wanted to start a new gang never bothered them again.
Fabian had no problems at the new place of stay accept that one day he went into the neighbor's house by mistake.The house was of similar designed,also a wooden house.The astonished occupants of that house asked him,"Hey!,who are you?".
"I stay here ",said Fabian."Where?"asked that occupant.
"Up stair,in that corner room"said Fabian."But I have not seen you before",came the reply.Just then Fabian noticed the beautiful girl of the next house beckoning to him that he had entered the wrong house.
Noticing the mistake Fabian apologized to those occupants,fortunate for him that girl came over and acknowledge that Fabian was the new tenant of her house and that entering their house was truly a mistake.Fabian thanked her for the help saying."Luckily you are around otherwise,I will surely to be in trouble".
"You are new here,that why you made that mistake.Lucky for you as I had just returned home after supper",said that girl."Well.next time I would not make that silly mistake again but should it happened again I call out to you,surely you will help me again.Next time round I take you for supper,alright?"asked Fabian.
"Okay,be sure you call me",said the girl.Did he called her?No never Fabian spent his last few days with his friends before leaving for Taiping.
Hooi took him to see Koong who like Fabian was also preparing for his examinations.Koong resided on the other side of Perak river not far from the Chinese Temple by the river side.His house actually was very near to Pasir Bedamar road.Fabian went there to swim as as well as to revised his lessons with Koong.
Koong also an excellent swimmer,that was why they clique up very well.They swam only when the tide was high.Here there were no mangrove trees to dive from,but they had an alternative they all dived from bamboo rafts.The bamboo floating in the river tight to stakes provided very good resting and diving for the swimmers there.
The place also an excellent fishing ground and fishes caught were very big.That was because near by was a pig slaughter house,thus supplying plenty of food for fishes.Another thing was Malays do not fished there because they were taboo against pigs.
Koong was better swimmer than Fabian and had beaten Fabian time and again in any competitions.Apparently he learned how to swim since six or seven years old,therefore well adapted to water.It was him who couched Fabian in other subjects of the examinations.He came from St.Anthony School.
Thus those were the final days Fabian in Teluk Anson as a teenager.
With Fabian gone to work in the plantation Francis was thus alone,but the Auntie in Teluk Anson came to his rescue and gave him lodging thereafter.Therefore the family shifted to be with the Auntie.Only one person so there was so problem in taking him in,for he could share room with the other cousin brothers.
Within the next two years the family again shifted to a rented house along Immigrant Road,because by then their elder sister had returned from U.K. and was teaching in Convent School.By then Francis also got a job as temporary teacher for overage students at Horley Methodist School,teaching only afternoon classes.
With all children working their parents stopped working as the family could now depend on their children.
To continue later
Chapter 18 David and Goliath
It was nearing the days of the Examination,one fateful afternoon on Friday,Joe now his enemy sitting next to a Gorilla on Chapel day.Joe was now member of the Horse Shoe Gang.They teased Fabian and beckon him to fight.
"Scared,huh? Fabian".said Joe."Scared my foot, I take on him any time any day,understand you baboon?" shouted Fabian."Do not call your gang,one to one fight",said Joe."Anytime Joe,anytime".said Fabian."For the two of you,my self alone is sufficient". That really talking big actually because Fabian had seen Joe fighting before and was weary of his right hook.That fearful right was surely very strong and fast.
"You sure talk big,Fabian","after school we will teach you a lesson you never forget",said Joe."Stop talking rubbish,I will fight you after school or both of you,anytime any where?',replied Fabian.
The gorilla pointed his huge fist at Fabian,"I blow you out of this world today,"shouted the Gorilla."Oh yeah,your size do not bother me,we shall see who goes into orbit today",said Fabian.
Very soon it chapel service was over,as Fabian and another friend Kok Hong were going out of school.The Gorilla and Joe followed.Once on the road they rushed to over take Fabian who was pushing his bicycle. Both blocked Fabian and Kok Hong's way.Seeing that Fabian pushed his bicycle abruptly to the side of road.
He leaped on to the Gorilla who was ready with raised fists in boxing style.Fabian rushed in within his outreach fists which were punching wildly with misses.It was like a David and Goliath fight because Fabian was so small in size compared with the Ape.With Fabian so near to his body he could not delivered his punches effectively..All his punches went either wild or just whizzed passed Fabian's head.
However Fabian slipped and went off balance. Hurt his right knuckle slightly and it bled slightly when he slipped to the ground..He was quick to recover and stood up to that Gorilla and punched away at his abdomen.It did not hurt the Gorilla as they were fighting very closely .With the punches of that Ape missing its intended targets.The little droplets of blood from fist of Fabian were smeared on the shirt of the Gorilla's white shirt at the abdomen.
Fox was the Prefect of the school,he came charging in from behind and grabbed both fighters by the collars.He was so strong that he could held tightly to that Ape and pulled up Fabian with the other hand."Come with me to the school Principle's office",he shouted.So both were dragged to the School Office.
The Principle warned both boys and told them that the school's supervisor would disciplined them the following morning at an assembly.Both parties left for home without further outbursts.
Next Monday morning at 7.30 a.m.at the school assembly the school supervisor first spoke.He was Mr.Goh Kim Bah,branding a long a long cane.Funny this man could speak without opening his mouth wide,apparently he was worried gold would dropped out from his mouth.
So he opened his mouth slightly and said,"Well.well.boys and girls.on Friday afternoon after school we had two gentlemen "cock fighters",they had a dual"."Now will the two fighters come out them selves to the front here".
Fabian waited a few seconds before moving out,followed by the Gorilla."Now I am going to punish them by canning them in public",turning to Fabian"Stretch out your hand',he called."And higher", testing the cane in the air.Then without warning he banished the cane at full strength at Fabian 's palm.
No sooner had he finished the first he administered his second stroke followed at similar intense speed.It struck Fabian, in pain yet he just stared at the supervisor."Staring at me would not help",as the third stroke came with similar force.In pain,Fabian did not show any emotions.Just simply looking straight into those angry eyes of the supervisor.
Following it was the Gorilla's turn to be caned.The canning proves that supervisor was bias because the strokes delivered on the Gorilla's palm were very tamed and weak strokes.When all over the Gorilla was smiling.Fabian in turn smiled bcak at him.
Both were forced to shake hands with Fabian looking straight at the supervisor."Why are you looking at me?Want to have some more",said the supervisor.Fabian returned a weak smile at him.Well he shook hands with that Gorilla without even looking at his face.
Fabian walked away peacefully with everyone watching but none of them ever mentioned that incidence to him ever.One thing was sure for the Gorilla dared not moved about any where in town alone or any where thereafter.
It was only two months away from the final examinations so Fabian gave second thoughts about seeking revenge.In any case the Gorilla was avoiding him and dared to move around in groups with only his Horse Shoe Gang.
Almost after the final examinations Fabian hastily moved on into the plantation sector,thus moving a distance away from many,many old friends and foes alike.Many friends were surprised at his move,but being from a poor family Fabian had to be employed fast so as to ease further burden on the family.
All other friends either had gone for further studies and admitted into other fields.Fabian knew that he could not be like others who could effort to further their studies so his immediate response was positively to grab any opportunity that came first.Since that job in the plantation was offered to him on a plate he took it without any comment.
He headed straight away to work was because he wanted to make good in life.With a better life then could he proudly safely returned to Teluk Anson to re-stake his claim his love for the girl he had always loved His love for her was no fluke but true love..He left Teluk Anson also because he never wanted to be a bad boy anymore,thus moving from all his friends.
As it happened it turned out to be an excellent choice and he had no regrets in accepting it.Of course during that long career in planting both rubber and later Oil Palm there were many short comings he nevertheless made the best of it in later years.
Joe remained an enemy till the end but when Fabian was General Manager of Sri Jaya Oil Palm Estate, Sri Jaya,Pahang,Joe came a calling with his fishing buddies.Very often they camped as well as passed their weekends at that estate.Thus the childhood friendships were rekindled.They were great friends thereafter.
"Scared,huh? Fabian".said Joe."Scared my foot, I take on him any time any day,understand you baboon?" shouted Fabian."Do not call your gang,one to one fight",said Joe."Anytime Joe,anytime".said Fabian."For the two of you,my self alone is sufficient". That really talking big actually because Fabian had seen Joe fighting before and was weary of his right hook.That fearful right was surely very strong and fast.
"You sure talk big,Fabian","after school we will teach you a lesson you never forget",said Joe."Stop talking rubbish,I will fight you after school or both of you,anytime any where?',replied Fabian.
The gorilla pointed his huge fist at Fabian,"I blow you out of this world today,"shouted the Gorilla."Oh yeah,your size do not bother me,we shall see who goes into orbit today",said Fabian.
Very soon it chapel service was over,as Fabian and another friend Kok Hong were going out of school.The Gorilla and Joe followed.Once on the road they rushed to over take Fabian who was pushing his bicycle. Both blocked Fabian and Kok Hong's way.Seeing that Fabian pushed his bicycle abruptly to the side of road.
He leaped on to the Gorilla who was ready with raised fists in boxing style.Fabian rushed in within his outreach fists which were punching wildly with misses.It was like a David and Goliath fight because Fabian was so small in size compared with the Ape.With Fabian so near to his body he could not delivered his punches effectively..All his punches went either wild or just whizzed passed Fabian's head.
However Fabian slipped and went off balance. Hurt his right knuckle slightly and it bled slightly when he slipped to the ground..He was quick to recover and stood up to that Gorilla and punched away at his abdomen.It did not hurt the Gorilla as they were fighting very closely .With the punches of that Ape missing its intended targets.The little droplets of blood from fist of Fabian were smeared on the shirt of the Gorilla's white shirt at the abdomen.
Fox was the Prefect of the school,he came charging in from behind and grabbed both fighters by the collars.He was so strong that he could held tightly to that Ape and pulled up Fabian with the other hand."Come with me to the school Principle's office",he shouted.So both were dragged to the School Office.
The Principle warned both boys and told them that the school's supervisor would disciplined them the following morning at an assembly.Both parties left for home without further outbursts.
Next Monday morning at 7.30 a.m.at the school assembly the school supervisor first spoke.He was Mr.Goh Kim Bah,branding a long a long cane.Funny this man could speak without opening his mouth wide,apparently he was worried gold would dropped out from his mouth.
So he opened his mouth slightly and said,"Well.well.boys and girls.on Friday afternoon after school we had two gentlemen "cock fighters",they had a dual"."Now will the two fighters come out them selves to the front here".
Fabian waited a few seconds before moving out,followed by the Gorilla."Now I am going to punish them by canning them in public",turning to Fabian"Stretch out your hand',he called."And higher", testing the cane in the air.Then without warning he banished the cane at full strength at Fabian 's palm.
No sooner had he finished the first he administered his second stroke followed at similar intense speed.It struck Fabian, in pain yet he just stared at the supervisor."Staring at me would not help",as the third stroke came with similar force.In pain,Fabian did not show any emotions.Just simply looking straight into those angry eyes of the supervisor.
Following it was the Gorilla's turn to be caned.The canning proves that supervisor was bias because the strokes delivered on the Gorilla's palm were very tamed and weak strokes.When all over the Gorilla was smiling.Fabian in turn smiled bcak at him.
Both were forced to shake hands with Fabian looking straight at the supervisor."Why are you looking at me?Want to have some more",said the supervisor.Fabian returned a weak smile at him.Well he shook hands with that Gorilla without even looking at his face.
Fabian walked away peacefully with everyone watching but none of them ever mentioned that incidence to him ever.One thing was sure for the Gorilla dared not moved about any where in town alone or any where thereafter.
It was only two months away from the final examinations so Fabian gave second thoughts about seeking revenge.In any case the Gorilla was avoiding him and dared to move around in groups with only his Horse Shoe Gang.
Almost after the final examinations Fabian hastily moved on into the plantation sector,thus moving a distance away from many,many old friends and foes alike.Many friends were surprised at his move,but being from a poor family Fabian had to be employed fast so as to ease further burden on the family.
All other friends either had gone for further studies and admitted into other fields.Fabian knew that he could not be like others who could effort to further their studies so his immediate response was positively to grab any opportunity that came first.Since that job in the plantation was offered to him on a plate he took it without any comment.
He headed straight away to work was because he wanted to make good in life.With a better life then could he proudly safely returned to Teluk Anson to re-stake his claim his love for the girl he had always loved His love for her was no fluke but true love..He left Teluk Anson also because he never wanted to be a bad boy anymore,thus moving from all his friends.
As it happened it turned out to be an excellent choice and he had no regrets in accepting it.Of course during that long career in planting both rubber and later Oil Palm there were many short comings he nevertheless made the best of it in later years.
Joe remained an enemy till the end but when Fabian was General Manager of Sri Jaya Oil Palm Estate, Sri Jaya,Pahang,Joe came a calling with his fishing buddies.Very often they camped as well as passed their weekends at that estate.Thus the childhood friendships were rekindled.They were great friends thereafter.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Chapter 17 Fabian The Gangster.
Fate had been cruel to Fabian.Only the lost of that girl's love could have done so much damages to Fabian,he overnight became a notorious gangster.Naughty,naughty that was the word.Overnight folks in town had a young an ruthless gangster.
and marked by the law,their latest addition to a list of bad hats.
Prior to this Fabian had roamed the streets with school mates.Students like his cousin John,Hang,Leng and Richard.John and Hang were of the same school and Fabian's but Richard and Leng came from Assumption school.This group never stayed in town after 10.00 p.m..Main activities were looking at girls and singing.Hang was a good singer and most of Fabian songs were taught by him.
Those were the days Elvis became Fabian's idol.He imitated Elvis way of talking, walking and also the way he dressed."If you are looking for trouble,You came to the right place",just like Elvis.Then there James Dean.
Fabian became the odd one out thereafter because he had lost something which very precious to his dear life ,thus he turned Bad real bad.Initially he had a gang of boys after 10.00 p.m.,for there was Yusof a mutton seller,Ah Pai (slightly lamed on one leg) and Moorthy a student (who later became a Planter also).
These people were no rowdy and not the trouble causing types but just want to have fun.Evenings were spent roaming about the Great World Park.drinking coffee and "assam Laksa".Very cheap then.There was also an Indian soup vendor.
Fabian dropped them to join another group later and they formed a formidable foursome.Wei Sang the tailor boy commonly tagged as the leader by the Police,and two brothers,Hee and See.Both brothers were big size.And finally Fabian,the smallest size of all four.
Their existence proved to be a force to reckon with.
They have yet to fight anybody still people duped them as notoriously dangerous.They have no name to their credit yet gangsters from bigger gangs respected them.Some even wanted to recruit them into their gang but they flatly refused and ignored them.Even gangsters on the run from other states looked for their protection against other gangs.
Once an older man approached them to initiate a new gang with him as adviser.Wei Sang was interested but not the two brothers and Fabian.This man was always up to no good and he even arranged the foursome to join in a gang fight to test their abilities and courage.All of them hot full blooded took out the challenge without second thought.
They actual to assist another gang out to thrash another rival.At the appointed time Fabian and gang left for the location for the fight.It was supposed to be on the road leading to Rice Mill at Sungei Nibong.Before going to that place Fabian suggested a diversion of plan.
"Instead of going there directly we walked there,parking our bicycles at a safe destination at least a 100 metres away"."Yeah just in case it was a trap".said Hee.So all agreed and they left their bicycle at a safe spot. Even walking to that arranged destination they split up.Walking in ones and twos,on different side.
"If we find it a trap,we dispersed in different directions,and finally meet at the spot where we had our bicycles",said Wei Sang.As they neared the place there was no one ahead,sensing something amiss they looked around before proceeding further.True enough they spotted Police waiting in ambush.
Seeing that they dispersed in different directions to avoid being detected,it was a very lucky escape indeed.The two brothers went somewhere on thier own to hide for the night.Wei Sang had no where to go,so he followed Fabian home at the Plantation.
Next morning Fabian attended school as normal and his friend Wei Sang went fishing at the water gate which Fabian showed him.At school,a Police officer came near to Fabian's class with the Principal and he pointed out Fabian from outside the class.Fabian knew what was happening pretended not to notice them.No arrest were make for no one committed any crimes nor was there a gang fight.
It was fortunate otherwise Fabian could expelled from school.It was his last year in school,Fabian had second thought in involving in such ridiculous perilous activities.He promised himself not to be so foolish again.Later after school he saw Wei Sang,as nothing had happened he finally went back to work.
Soon school cert.examinations was over and without hesitation left for Kuala Lumpur for holidays with his brother Francis plus cousin John.Despite the fact that their Grandmother had passed away their Auntie still requested them to go to Kuala Lumpur for holidays.It was there that a job was arranged for Fabian in the plantation.
Thus Fabian became a planter.It was a good turn of fortune for him.Work he must,to prove that he can have a good career.An excellent position that can convince the parents of the girl he loved that he was never what they gauged of him.To show them not to look down any young man from a poor family.
Most of all,Fabian relieved from those gangster stuffs and go straight as a man should be and he never met with them ever after.He had intended to be a successful man in what ever he indulged in the future.That he did but failed in his endeavor to achieve his sole goal.Or he missed that goal by miles.
Nevertheless in the end he was blessed with a beautiful family.With all those came to past he still cherished fond memories especially the first girl he ever loved.Praise the Lord for His everlasting love.
and marked by the law,their latest addition to a list of bad hats.
Prior to this Fabian had roamed the streets with school mates.Students like his cousin John,Hang,Leng and Richard.John and Hang were of the same school and Fabian's but Richard and Leng came from Assumption school.This group never stayed in town after 10.00 p.m..Main activities were looking at girls and singing.Hang was a good singer and most of Fabian songs were taught by him.
Those were the days Elvis became Fabian's idol.He imitated Elvis way of talking, walking and also the way he dressed."If you are looking for trouble,You came to the right place",just like Elvis.Then there James Dean.
Fabian became the odd one out thereafter because he had lost something which very precious to his dear life ,thus he turned Bad real bad.Initially he had a gang of boys after 10.00 p.m.,for there was Yusof a mutton seller,Ah Pai (slightly lamed on one leg) and Moorthy a student (who later became a Planter also).
These people were no rowdy and not the trouble causing types but just want to have fun.Evenings were spent roaming about the Great World Park.drinking coffee and "assam Laksa".Very cheap then.There was also an Indian soup vendor.
Fabian dropped them to join another group later and they formed a formidable foursome.Wei Sang the tailor boy commonly tagged as the leader by the Police,and two brothers,Hee and See.Both brothers were big size.And finally Fabian,the smallest size of all four.
Their existence proved to be a force to reckon with.
They have yet to fight anybody still people duped them as notoriously dangerous.They have no name to their credit yet gangsters from bigger gangs respected them.Some even wanted to recruit them into their gang but they flatly refused and ignored them.Even gangsters on the run from other states looked for their protection against other gangs.
Once an older man approached them to initiate a new gang with him as adviser.Wei Sang was interested but not the two brothers and Fabian.This man was always up to no good and he even arranged the foursome to join in a gang fight to test their abilities and courage.All of them hot full blooded took out the challenge without second thought.
They actual to assist another gang out to thrash another rival.At the appointed time Fabian and gang left for the location for the fight.It was supposed to be on the road leading to Rice Mill at Sungei Nibong.Before going to that place Fabian suggested a diversion of plan.
"Instead of going there directly we walked there,parking our bicycles at a safe destination at least a 100 metres away"."Yeah just in case it was a trap".said Hee.So all agreed and they left their bicycle at a safe spot. Even walking to that arranged destination they split up.Walking in ones and twos,on different side.
"If we find it a trap,we dispersed in different directions,and finally meet at the spot where we had our bicycles",said Wei Sang.As they neared the place there was no one ahead,sensing something amiss they looked around before proceeding further.True enough they spotted Police waiting in ambush.
Seeing that they dispersed in different directions to avoid being detected,it was a very lucky escape indeed.The two brothers went somewhere on thier own to hide for the night.Wei Sang had no where to go,so he followed Fabian home at the Plantation.
Next morning Fabian attended school as normal and his friend Wei Sang went fishing at the water gate which Fabian showed him.At school,a Police officer came near to Fabian's class with the Principal and he pointed out Fabian from outside the class.Fabian knew what was happening pretended not to notice them.No arrest were make for no one committed any crimes nor was there a gang fight.
It was fortunate otherwise Fabian could expelled from school.It was his last year in school,Fabian had second thought in involving in such ridiculous perilous activities.He promised himself not to be so foolish again.Later after school he saw Wei Sang,as nothing had happened he finally went back to work.
Soon school cert.examinations was over and without hesitation left for Kuala Lumpur for holidays with his brother Francis plus cousin John.Despite the fact that their Grandmother had passed away their Auntie still requested them to go to Kuala Lumpur for holidays.It was there that a job was arranged for Fabian in the plantation.
Thus Fabian became a planter.It was a good turn of fortune for him.Work he must,to prove that he can have a good career.An excellent position that can convince the parents of the girl he loved that he was never what they gauged of him.To show them not to look down any young man from a poor family.
Most of all,Fabian relieved from those gangster stuffs and go straight as a man should be and he never met with them ever after.He had intended to be a successful man in what ever he indulged in the future.That he did but failed in his endeavor to achieve his sole goal.Or he missed that goal by miles.
Nevertheless in the end he was blessed with a beautiful family.With all those came to past he still cherished fond memories especially the first girl he ever loved.Praise the Lord for His everlasting love.
Chapter 16 Linda
That was the most beautiful name in Fabian's life.For more than half a century that wonderful name dwelt deep in Fabian's mind.That was the girl he first loved but unsuccessful in winning her heart,all because of his stupid pride,stubbornness and self- built in inferiority complex.
Once upon a time a boy too young to know
Was not so long a go,that boy was me,sings Fabian.
Threw his clothes and troubles in the dust and hit that dusty road
What a shame that so young a boy should carry such a load
Once upon a time a boy knew misery
Was not so long ago,that boy was me.
It was his good friend James who introduced her to him at his house.On that fateful day turned out to be one the best days of his life.Fabian was at James residence when she came a calling.One good look a her and it set poor Fabian's heart a blazed,his heart began swirling round and round in harmonious melody.
It truly was love at first sight never a puppy love.She was very charming armed with very beautiful smile.Soft spoken and smiling as she talked.That enchanted Fabian and drove him out of this world.As they talked James made a remark,"Don't tell me you both are love at first sight".He was damn right it was love at first sight for Fabian.
"No,lah',said a shy Fabian.He was blushing so was she and just continued smiling.No doubt about it.she had already stolen Fabian's heart."Linda come to Church,this evening",asked James,"Fabian also attending,Aren't you?Fabian?",asked James."Oh yes,surely I come and are coming too?",Fabian turning to the pretty girl.
"Oh,yes,I will come",she replied.
"Then,shall I cycled you to Church this evening?'asked Fabian.
"Okay,I wait for you",replied that Charming girl.That actually wrapped up Fabian's heart and thus he was lost forever.
They attended Church services and he also escorted her to school every morning.Alas,things were never a bed of roses,material requirements was seemingly as important as Fabian soon found out.Poor boys are forbidden to fall in love he soon discovered it the hard way and it hurts.
It was a joyous event going to her house but one he soon found out that he was not welcome and told to leave in a very polite way by her step-mother.That really jerked Fabian, dampant his spirit,shattered his heart.Caught by the suddenness of the shock,he softly accepted and moved away slowly.
As he pushed his bicycle out from that house,sad gashing of tears suddenly flowed rapid from his eyes.Both eyes were flooded with unstoppable tears.Soon his cheeks was very wet with the flowing streams of tears.Linda sensing something amiss called out to Fabian.The tearful Fabian dared not looked back but meekly waved with his left hand.
Once on the road he rode on his bicycle ahead with down cast eyes in silence,tears were still flowing.So devastated was he that he remained quiet as he ride towards Changkat Jong Road down to Selaba Estate and further on.He just ride and ride until the tears on his face were dried.
Then on Fabian did not escort her to school,but apparently his position was replaced by a rich,handsome and tall boy.Every morning passed by only to see that rich boy waiting for her.However two two days later he adruptly stopped.Fabian only knew the reason why he stopped waiting for her at Church..
He was caught off guard when Linda demanded to know why he stared at that boy with grudging intentions."What?,I only looked at him.If that was staring angrily ,yes,I stared at him,"replied Fabian walking away in anger.They never talked after that.That only made matter worst for him.
He contemplated that since as an ordinary young man he could not win her then to turn bad,inducing her hate him more will just be great.Yes he went bad real bad thereafter.He never imagined that a good idea,he did it on purpose and to fan his raged against all who down graded him.On the other hand he burnt midnight oil in his studies with intentions to do well.Thus leading a life of Dr Jekyll and Mr,Hyde.
He was studying after midnight until 5.00 a.m. every morning and went to school at 7.30 a.m. and also slept in the afternoon.He made others believed that he was playing the fool and never revised his lessons.Yes he wanted to surprise everyone.To think he was not studying was a grave mistake,he did study.
In his mind he could not forget her, his turning bad was never the way out.Unable to forget her, he planned to win her back the rightful way.The best way then was to finish his studies fast and began working.Only success in whatever work he indulged in, can win her back no other way.
On finishing his studies Fabian immediately secured a job in the plantation,thus began his career in planting Rubber and Oil Palm.Every two months or so he would take leave from his employer to just catch a slight view of that girl he so loved.A short glance was sufficient to satisfy his soul especially on a Friday after school.
Those magic moments when their eyes met in those short seconds.It was enough to send Fabian into orbit.Alas,stories in story books were never true,where the hero after toiling all hardships and can return in triumph to successfully win her love.In reality there was no such rubbish.
In real life once out of way and out mind you are history some one else will stepped in to replace you.For Fabian he had his opportunities when retuning from work but he allowed his pride and self built in inferiority complex to over rule him.Had he taken a positive stand,be humble and have the initiative to tell her the truth it would have at least made a difference if not win her back.But instantly he failed.
A sad news brought by his brother Francis hurt him tremendously,he was shocked beyond words when he received news that she was married.That shattered his dreams.He proved to be a coward if not he would have finished himself off that very instant.There after he vented his anger and went on a romantic spree.
No,no,he never was a play boy but circumstances crowned him one.He sailed from girls to girls,sailors had a friend in every port but Fabian had friends in all plantations he had been to.Disappointing thing was that whenever he was with them the girl he had adored and admired appeared before him and he called out her name,each time he held a new girl.
Yes,who ever he may be with he could not forget her.Seeing that he forced himself to surrender all these new friends.Called it jilting them if you may but he did them without evil intentions.In the end he never wanted to lie to them,that simple.Can he be forgiven?Never,not one forgave him,they cursed him.He had to admit his faults,no way out.
In the end Fabian settled down with the best and have a wonderful family.Fabian remained a good husband and father to his children.He never let them down.
He nearly died of Leukeamia,cancer of the blood but through the Grace of the Lord who was compassionate to him,he survived that ordeal.Praise the Lord for His everlasting love for him.
Ten years on the memories of her remained embedded in him.In his twilight years he meet another whom he thought could replace her but it was late.For when he was willing she was naive and refused,but when she was thinking of acceptance it was was already beyond his capabilities.The spirit was willing but the body has lost its endurance and vigor.Thus Winning he still loses.Losing you lose it was fair but winning and you still lose,God forbade.
In the final episode Fabian still wished her well and hinted that a good glance of her will be a good ending for him.A fitting end?Maybe.
To continued when in the correct frame of mind.
Once upon a time a boy too young to know
Was not so long a go,that boy was me,sings Fabian.
Threw his clothes and troubles in the dust and hit that dusty road
What a shame that so young a boy should carry such a load
Once upon a time a boy knew misery
Was not so long ago,that boy was me.
It was his good friend James who introduced her to him at his house.On that fateful day turned out to be one the best days of his life.Fabian was at James residence when she came a calling.One good look a her and it set poor Fabian's heart a blazed,his heart began swirling round and round in harmonious melody.
It truly was love at first sight never a puppy love.She was very charming armed with very beautiful smile.Soft spoken and smiling as she talked.That enchanted Fabian and drove him out of this world.As they talked James made a remark,"Don't tell me you both are love at first sight".He was damn right it was love at first sight for Fabian.
"No,lah',said a shy Fabian.He was blushing so was she and just continued smiling.No doubt about it.she had already stolen Fabian's heart."Linda come to Church,this evening",asked James,"Fabian also attending,Aren't you?Fabian?",asked James."Oh yes,surely I come and are coming too?",Fabian turning to the pretty girl.
"Oh,yes,I will come",she replied.
"Then,shall I cycled you to Church this evening?'asked Fabian.
"Okay,I wait for you",replied that Charming girl.That actually wrapped up Fabian's heart and thus he was lost forever.
They attended Church services and he also escorted her to school every morning.Alas,things were never a bed of roses,material requirements was seemingly as important as Fabian soon found out.Poor boys are forbidden to fall in love he soon discovered it the hard way and it hurts.
It was a joyous event going to her house but one he soon found out that he was not welcome and told to leave in a very polite way by her step-mother.That really jerked Fabian, dampant his spirit,shattered his heart.Caught by the suddenness of the shock,he softly accepted and moved away slowly.
As he pushed his bicycle out from that house,sad gashing of tears suddenly flowed rapid from his eyes.Both eyes were flooded with unstoppable tears.Soon his cheeks was very wet with the flowing streams of tears.Linda sensing something amiss called out to Fabian.The tearful Fabian dared not looked back but meekly waved with his left hand.
Once on the road he rode on his bicycle ahead with down cast eyes in silence,tears were still flowing.So devastated was he that he remained quiet as he ride towards Changkat Jong Road down to Selaba Estate and further on.He just ride and ride until the tears on his face were dried.
Then on Fabian did not escort her to school,but apparently his position was replaced by a rich,handsome and tall boy.Every morning passed by only to see that rich boy waiting for her.However two two days later he adruptly stopped.Fabian only knew the reason why he stopped waiting for her at Church..
He was caught off guard when Linda demanded to know why he stared at that boy with grudging intentions."What?,I only looked at him.If that was staring angrily ,yes,I stared at him,"replied Fabian walking away in anger.They never talked after that.That only made matter worst for him.
He contemplated that since as an ordinary young man he could not win her then to turn bad,inducing her hate him more will just be great.Yes he went bad real bad thereafter.He never imagined that a good idea,he did it on purpose and to fan his raged against all who down graded him.On the other hand he burnt midnight oil in his studies with intentions to do well.Thus leading a life of Dr Jekyll and Mr,Hyde.
He was studying after midnight until 5.00 a.m. every morning and went to school at 7.30 a.m. and also slept in the afternoon.He made others believed that he was playing the fool and never revised his lessons.Yes he wanted to surprise everyone.To think he was not studying was a grave mistake,he did study.
In his mind he could not forget her, his turning bad was never the way out.Unable to forget her, he planned to win her back the rightful way.The best way then was to finish his studies fast and began working.Only success in whatever work he indulged in, can win her back no other way.
On finishing his studies Fabian immediately secured a job in the plantation,thus began his career in planting Rubber and Oil Palm.Every two months or so he would take leave from his employer to just catch a slight view of that girl he so loved.A short glance was sufficient to satisfy his soul especially on a Friday after school.
Those magic moments when their eyes met in those short seconds.It was enough to send Fabian into orbit.Alas,stories in story books were never true,where the hero after toiling all hardships and can return in triumph to successfully win her love.In reality there was no such rubbish.
In real life once out of way and out mind you are history some one else will stepped in to replace you.For Fabian he had his opportunities when retuning from work but he allowed his pride and self built in inferiority complex to over rule him.Had he taken a positive stand,be humble and have the initiative to tell her the truth it would have at least made a difference if not win her back.But instantly he failed.
A sad news brought by his brother Francis hurt him tremendously,he was shocked beyond words when he received news that she was married.That shattered his dreams.He proved to be a coward if not he would have finished himself off that very instant.There after he vented his anger and went on a romantic spree.
No,no,he never was a play boy but circumstances crowned him one.He sailed from girls to girls,sailors had a friend in every port but Fabian had friends in all plantations he had been to.Disappointing thing was that whenever he was with them the girl he had adored and admired appeared before him and he called out her name,each time he held a new girl.
Yes,who ever he may be with he could not forget her.Seeing that he forced himself to surrender all these new friends.Called it jilting them if you may but he did them without evil intentions.In the end he never wanted to lie to them,that simple.Can he be forgiven?Never,not one forgave him,they cursed him.He had to admit his faults,no way out.
In the end Fabian settled down with the best and have a wonderful family.Fabian remained a good husband and father to his children.He never let them down.
He nearly died of Leukeamia,cancer of the blood but through the Grace of the Lord who was compassionate to him,he survived that ordeal.Praise the Lord for His everlasting love for him.
Ten years on the memories of her remained embedded in him.In his twilight years he meet another whom he thought could replace her but it was late.For when he was willing she was naive and refused,but when she was thinking of acceptance it was was already beyond his capabilities.The spirit was willing but the body has lost its endurance and vigor.Thus Winning he still loses.Losing you lose it was fair but winning and you still lose,God forbade.
In the final episode Fabian still wished her well and hinted that a good glance of her will be a good ending for him.A fitting end?Maybe.
To continued when in the correct frame of mind.
Chapter !5 James
In 1959 Fabian also met another buddy named James.James was a very polite and pleasant person.He was a regular church goer and he attended the Protestant Church in town.It was he who encouraged Fabian to attend Church.
James resided along also along Changkat Jong Road.Like Fabian he too cycled to school but at much earlier time.Both got along fine.Later Fabian was introduced to his Church.Attending regular services at weekends and on Sunday Morning.
At the Church Fabian met the Reverend whom everyone called Padre.Padre Harper with his wife were resident Pastor and resided within the Church's compound.Those days Pastors were very simple folks.They were not only simple in the way they dressed,talked,humble and respectable.Always had a good ear to listen to anything.
Later,he was assisted by another Pastor,a Padre Hewlett whom Fabian knew.
Those days the singing of hymns were nice and gentle following music from a piano or organ,not like presently with drums and noisy guitars.Of course time have changed tremendously, church goers are attracted to the present music.
Sermons by the Pastors were short and beautifully said.Unlike now Pastors tend to show off,especially those roving Pastors rendering their sermons and showing the very fact that they were well versed with the Holy Bible engaging the worshipers to turn the pages from the first to the last and then back and jumped here and there.Just to prove they were good in their bible study.
Worshipers come to worship not to listen to long and tiring speeches.I am of the opinion that only the Pastor should speak not every one.Of course that was a good training ground for orators but do not make the rest listen to all these blaring.
Presently Fabian respected most was the preaching of his church's President Prop.Dr.Living Lee.His sermons never lead listeners astray with numerous quotations,
turning of pages of the Holy Bible, always not too long,but to the point.He never bored all the worshipers present.True to the very fact that he was a fantastic lecturer.He is a person adhering closely to the word of the Lord which is difficult for anyone to catch up or emulate.
As for all the others,true- they were all speaking the word of the Lord Almighty.I think the Lord his grace were never so long aired.Read the Bible and you know especially his sermons to the multitude of people and he only deliver short and inspiring sermons,mostly in parables,and most of all,he fed them.
In that Church Fabian was encouraged to attend but that there was no pressing issue of him converting.Many friends were made here.Many pretty girls but there was one that stood out among those roses and it was here Fabian lost his heart.
James and Fabian went separate ways after school cert.,Fabian immediately joined the plantation sector and James apparently become a Pastor.It was widely rumoured that he migrated away to Australia thereafter.Wherever he maybe ,may God blessed him.Wherever he may be may God blessed him.
James resided along also along Changkat Jong Road.Like Fabian he too cycled to school but at much earlier time.Both got along fine.Later Fabian was introduced to his Church.Attending regular services at weekends and on Sunday Morning.
At the Church Fabian met the Reverend whom everyone called Padre.Padre Harper with his wife were resident Pastor and resided within the Church's compound.Those days Pastors were very simple folks.They were not only simple in the way they dressed,talked,humble and respectable.Always had a good ear to listen to anything.
Later,he was assisted by another Pastor,a Padre Hewlett whom Fabian knew.
Those days the singing of hymns were nice and gentle following music from a piano or organ,not like presently with drums and noisy guitars.Of course time have changed tremendously, church goers are attracted to the present music.
Sermons by the Pastors were short and beautifully said.Unlike now Pastors tend to show off,especially those roving Pastors rendering their sermons and showing the very fact that they were well versed with the Holy Bible engaging the worshipers to turn the pages from the first to the last and then back and jumped here and there.Just to prove they were good in their bible study.
Worshipers come to worship not to listen to long and tiring speeches.I am of the opinion that only the Pastor should speak not every one.Of course that was a good training ground for orators but do not make the rest listen to all these blaring.
Presently Fabian respected most was the preaching of his church's President Prop.Dr.Living Lee.His sermons never lead listeners astray with numerous quotations,
turning of pages of the Holy Bible, always not too long,but to the point.He never bored all the worshipers present.True to the very fact that he was a fantastic lecturer.He is a person adhering closely to the word of the Lord which is difficult for anyone to catch up or emulate.
As for all the others,true- they were all speaking the word of the Lord Almighty.I think the Lord his grace were never so long aired.Read the Bible and you know especially his sermons to the multitude of people and he only deliver short and inspiring sermons,mostly in parables,and most of all,he fed them.
In that Church Fabian was encouraged to attend but that there was no pressing issue of him converting.Many friends were made here.Many pretty girls but there was one that stood out among those roses and it was here Fabian lost his heart.
James and Fabian went separate ways after school cert.,Fabian immediately joined the plantation sector and James apparently become a Pastor.It was widely rumoured that he migrated away to Australia thereafter.Wherever he maybe ,may God blessed him.Wherever he may be may God blessed him.
Chapter 14 Stealing Oranges
Teluk Anson was known for its juicy and sweet green oranges during the time when Fabian was a teenager.His friend Kee very often went roaming in thee oranges plantations way in Pasir Pedamar and at the far end of Immigrant road.
Presently after so many years all those plantations were now taken over by many squatters.In the old days there were paths joining Pasir Pedamar and Immigrant roads,to-day there are roads linking all these areas.
Fabian had never dared wandered into these areas because he had never been there before.Knowing Kee changed all that,he took Fabian into these areas.Those old days it was filly planted with oranges,beautiful matured trees bearing fruits on almost every trees.A very magnificent sight to behold.
Many a time they just cycled around along those tiny wining paths.When they were fertilizing those oranges the trip was not so wonderful as the stench of human wastes filled the air.That was the time Fabian will refused to go there.
Those days there was no use of fertilizers,it was I think very expensive then and not readily available.On the other hand organic fertilizers were easily obtainable.
People passed their wastes into buckets and those in turn transport and sold cheaply to the farms.Jokes aside even vegetables were all planted like that,no other way.
So organic cultivations had longed been with us.Only with the introductions of cheaper fertilizers and modern sanitation systems,those wastes were not utilized.
Fabian and see admiring those attractive oranges hatched out a plan to steal some one day.Both their bicycles were attached with a small bag each."How many do you planned to steal",asked Kee."Ten or maybe more',replied Fabian."Okay we go now",said Kee.
They took the road to Pasir Pedamar cutting into the path to Immigrant Road.On the way they passed many farms but there were workers around so they carry on cycling,until they reached a lonely plantation in the middle.It was quiet all round.
Seeing that Kee stopped his bicycle and began plucking some big oranges,Fabian did like wise.After plucking three or so they tried to fill their bags with them.But to their surprised the bags can only take at the most five oranges only.
So finding no other options they just simply plucked enough to fill their bags only and then cycled off.The whole process took only a few seconds or so .Filling their small bags they speed off.Luckily no one was around to catch them and they escaped towards Immigrant Road.
Well,they got only four oranges each which they easily consumed all on the way."Aiya,very scary",said Kee,"Scared of being caught,next time no more stealing",
"Yeah",replied Fabian,"I was too frightened should we be caught,so next time,don't try again.It is not worth the risks we take".said Fabian.
Presently after so many years all those plantations were now taken over by many squatters.In the old days there were paths joining Pasir Pedamar and Immigrant roads,to-day there are roads linking all these areas.
Fabian had never dared wandered into these areas because he had never been there before.Knowing Kee changed all that,he took Fabian into these areas.Those old days it was filly planted with oranges,beautiful matured trees bearing fruits on almost every trees.A very magnificent sight to behold.
Many a time they just cycled around along those tiny wining paths.When they were fertilizing those oranges the trip was not so wonderful as the stench of human wastes filled the air.That was the time Fabian will refused to go there.
Those days there was no use of fertilizers,it was I think very expensive then and not readily available.On the other hand organic fertilizers were easily obtainable.
People passed their wastes into buckets and those in turn transport and sold cheaply to the farms.Jokes aside even vegetables were all planted like that,no other way.
So organic cultivations had longed been with us.Only with the introductions of cheaper fertilizers and modern sanitation systems,those wastes were not utilized.
Fabian and see admiring those attractive oranges hatched out a plan to steal some one day.Both their bicycles were attached with a small bag each."How many do you planned to steal",asked Kee."Ten or maybe more',replied Fabian."Okay we go now",said Kee.
They took the road to Pasir Pedamar cutting into the path to Immigrant Road.On the way they passed many farms but there were workers around so they carry on cycling,until they reached a lonely plantation in the middle.It was quiet all round.
Seeing that Kee stopped his bicycle and began plucking some big oranges,Fabian did like wise.After plucking three or so they tried to fill their bags with them.But to their surprised the bags can only take at the most five oranges only.
So finding no other options they just simply plucked enough to fill their bags only and then cycled off.The whole process took only a few seconds or so .Filling their small bags they speed off.Luckily no one was around to catch them and they escaped towards Immigrant Road.
Well,they got only four oranges each which they easily consumed all on the way."Aiya,very scary",said Kee,"Scared of being caught,next time no more stealing",
"Yeah",replied Fabian,"I was too frightened should we be caught,so next time,don't try again.It is not worth the risks we take".said Fabian.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Chapter 13 Fabian lost a Friend
In early 1959 Fabian lost a friend who was called Soon,a friend who was two years or more his senior.It was him who taught Fabian how to tackle History papers and also equipped him with notes on that subject,for Senior Cambridge Examinations. Fabian subsequently scored A1 for that paper.
Actually Fabian met him when he came calling after his sister's result was announced.He,himself was a top scorer but not better than Fabian's sister. He continued his studies in Anglo Chinese School,Ipoh.
He,Fabian and Kee another friend became very good friends.One evening he went to the wharf with a girl friend and slipped by mistake into the river and was washed away.His body was not recovered within two days.
The worried family's brother then embarked to find the corpse himself.He got Kee to assist him and Kee in turn requested Fabian to join in.So they met at 10,00 a.m. the next morning at the wharf where a boat man was waiting.It was a hot sunny morning.
As the tide was receding the boatman rowed according to the flow of water towards the river mouth.After a short distance they came across an outlet stream and Kee suggested the boatman to row in side it to have a look.Sure enough after about three chains or so,all noticed something floating among some weeds and robbish at the right edge of the stream.
On closer look,there it was the bloated body of a man floating.By its clothing Soon's brother could identify that it was his brother.There were flies flying all over the exposed part of the body.There were many fish bites all over.There was also stench of smell emitting from the body and it was really awful sight to behold.
The Authority were informed and the corpse recovered and stored at the Mortuary.It was a very sad day in deed for Fabian and Kee. At that solemn moment both shed a tear or two for the loss of a good friend.
The funeral was arranged and a huge crowd of students,friends and relatives came and paid their respect at the mortuary.After all necessary rites were performed the funeral was over.Kee and Fabian did not sent the dead to its burial ground as they had no transport to follow.
That ended their sad day.Their friend maybe gone but his memories lingers on.For Fabian took his sound advised seriously and it showed good result in the end.Kee often came around to see Fabian and they remained very good friends.
Actually Fabian met him when he came calling after his sister's result was announced.He,himself was a top scorer but not better than Fabian's sister. He continued his studies in Anglo Chinese School,Ipoh.
He,Fabian and Kee another friend became very good friends.One evening he went to the wharf with a girl friend and slipped by mistake into the river and was washed away.His body was not recovered within two days.
The worried family's brother then embarked to find the corpse himself.He got Kee to assist him and Kee in turn requested Fabian to join in.So they met at 10,00 a.m. the next morning at the wharf where a boat man was waiting.It was a hot sunny morning.
As the tide was receding the boatman rowed according to the flow of water towards the river mouth.After a short distance they came across an outlet stream and Kee suggested the boatman to row in side it to have a look.Sure enough after about three chains or so,all noticed something floating among some weeds and robbish at the right edge of the stream.
On closer look,there it was the bloated body of a man floating.By its clothing Soon's brother could identify that it was his brother.There were flies flying all over the exposed part of the body.There were many fish bites all over.There was also stench of smell emitting from the body and it was really awful sight to behold.
The Authority were informed and the corpse recovered and stored at the Mortuary.It was a very sad day in deed for Fabian and Kee. At that solemn moment both shed a tear or two for the loss of a good friend.
The funeral was arranged and a huge crowd of students,friends and relatives came and paid their respect at the mortuary.After all necessary rites were performed the funeral was over.Kee and Fabian did not sent the dead to its burial ground as they had no transport to follow.
That ended their sad day.Their friend maybe gone but his memories lingers on.For Fabian took his sound advised seriously and it showed good result in the end.Kee often came around to see Fabian and they remained very good friends.
Chapter 12 Trouble
There was a time when some created a rumour of impending trouble brewing around Changkat Jong areas.It brought fears among all especially we Chinese as our population in that plantation was so small.
It seem someone had maliciously created a story that there were five or so armed man roaming at night.A Chinese man said to be a care taker of the small temple before the Sawmill at 3rd.mile.He came one evening with his "kungfu" style spear and informed all to stand up and fight the intruders who ever they might be.
Fabian and gang were by the road side that evening.There were also other people gathered there to hear the news of impending troubles.The temple care taker with bare body came and warned everyone to be ready and be alert.
And that should all heard the banging sound of the electrical post from a distance all should come out armed.All wandered why and to fight whom?He said about armed men with long "parang" were roaming the plantations in the evening.He suspected they were out to cause chaos.
Fabian and company,all school boys just listen and blinked.So what if we were attacked we do not have the weapons to defend themselves let alone fight any intruders.Of course the other workers it was alright they have the necessary weapons.Talked about work they were alright but fighting no way.
That evening all were alert and keep vigil,but it was futile as nothing happened.The next evening that man came again and warned all to be ready.All the men took his word and took the precautions and took turn to guard the lines.Nothing materialized.
The following evening the same happened but still no signs of any intruders,so there after everyone returned to their respective homes to sleep ignoring what that crazy man had warned them.Thereafter the man never came again,for there was no trouble, for some one had intentionaly created a horde to cause confusion.
Fabian and gang were observing all these events and had second thoughts about that crazy man.Coming round like a "kungfu" master,bare body tying a black cloth around his waist,and carrying a Chinese spear with red furs after the spear head.He really looked gallant but can he really fight?
"I think he is just a show off",said Elder Yap,"cannot really fight"."But he knows Kungfu",said Francis.
"His spear I think cannot match an intruder armed with "parang",because the "parang"will surely sheared off his spear into two.That rod is plain wood and so small in size",said Fabian.
"Ya,lah,I think so",said Elder Yap,"Why I never thought of that".
"Because you stupid",says Francis.
"You clever,why you never say so",replied Elder Yap.
"That spear is for practice and show off only cannot used for defense at all",said Fabian."Should he come again we tell him off,okay?"said smaller Yap.
"Yeah,next time he comes you tell him off", all laughed.
It seem someone had maliciously created a story that there were five or so armed man roaming at night.A Chinese man said to be a care taker of the small temple before the Sawmill at 3rd.mile.He came one evening with his "kungfu" style spear and informed all to stand up and fight the intruders who ever they might be.
Fabian and gang were by the road side that evening.There were also other people gathered there to hear the news of impending troubles.The temple care taker with bare body came and warned everyone to be ready and be alert.
And that should all heard the banging sound of the electrical post from a distance all should come out armed.All wandered why and to fight whom?He said about armed men with long "parang" were roaming the plantations in the evening.He suspected they were out to cause chaos.
Fabian and company,all school boys just listen and blinked.So what if we were attacked we do not have the weapons to defend themselves let alone fight any intruders.Of course the other workers it was alright they have the necessary weapons.Talked about work they were alright but fighting no way.
That evening all were alert and keep vigil,but it was futile as nothing happened.The next evening that man came again and warned all to be ready.All the men took his word and took the precautions and took turn to guard the lines.Nothing materialized.
The following evening the same happened but still no signs of any intruders,so there after everyone returned to their respective homes to sleep ignoring what that crazy man had warned them.Thereafter the man never came again,for there was no trouble, for some one had intentionaly created a horde to cause confusion.
Fabian and gang were observing all these events and had second thoughts about that crazy man.Coming round like a "kungfu" master,bare body tying a black cloth around his waist,and carrying a Chinese spear with red furs after the spear head.He really looked gallant but can he really fight?
"I think he is just a show off",said Elder Yap,"cannot really fight"."But he knows Kungfu",said Francis.
"His spear I think cannot match an intruder armed with "parang",because the "parang"will surely sheared off his spear into two.That rod is plain wood and so small in size",said Fabian.
"Ya,lah,I think so",said Elder Yap,"Why I never thought of that".
"Because you stupid",says Francis.
"You clever,why you never say so",replied Elder Yap.
"That spear is for practice and show off only cannot used for defense at all",said Fabian."Should he come again we tell him off,okay?"said smaller Yap.
"Yeah,next time he comes you tell him off", all laughed.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Chapter 11 Again the Story Teller
It was a rainy day and also a school holiday Fabian and gang had no where to go and was forced to stay around the line site.There the Old man at his stories again.Surrounding him were all his children.He had five sons and two daughters but that day only the four youngest sons were listening t his tales.
Others present were some other tappers children,actually there was a huge crowd listening to his story."Come let us listen to him",said young Yap.Fabian was reluctant."Well,it is raining and we had nothing to do,come let us listen to his big cannons",called Elder Yap.
Then Yap said,"Hey!,Fabian - Ah Har is also there",said Elder Yap."Where?"asked Fabian."There behind that tall fat friend of hers",replied Elder Yap."Oh,yes I see her,why don't you all go ahead first than I come later',said Fabian.So all went ahead.
Wah,"said the Old man," I also once shot a very fierce leopard,you all like to hear?"."Yes",replied everyone clapping their hands.Yap brothers and the others also clapped for fun.Fabian also joined them after he had a change of clothes.
"Many years ago".so claimed the old timer,"deep in the thick jungle,there was a spot where the opium leaves were very big and definitely fetched a better price in the market.The female folks requested his help to escort into the jungle.
So he went along with them,they at first could cycled there but when the path became too dense to use bicycles they all parked their bicycle in the bush.Thereafter continued walking it was an extremely long walk,for more that one hour plus.
When they arrived at the spot,the female folks on perceiving abundance of the beautiful large opium leaves rushed on to harvest them.Ignoring of all impending dangers.The old man then said he too was beginning to feel complacent and about to lit a cigarette when his eyes caught the images of a leopard perching on a branch of a nearby tree.
Without a second thought he discarded his lighting of cigarette and intensely lifted up his gun at the leopard,it was excellent reflexes.Just then the leopard was lunging forward at him.Without hesitation he let go a volley of shot at it.It was a gamble he took without even aiming at the leaping leopard.
It was a lucky shot he hope."Bang"his shot rang out loud and clear,the women screamed and ran for cover.Fortunately that lucky shot hit the leopard in the chest.It was felt by that aimless shot,what a lucky day",he exclaimed.Putting his hands to his bared chest,expressing his anxiety and fright what should he really missed.That would have been fatal.
All present clapped and hailed him a hero,so were Fabian and gang.Fabian's eyes caught those of Ah Har and she sent an admiring smile at him.Then she and her friends walked towards the shop with Fabian following her.
She stopped and whispered to Fabian,"My family are shifting away from this place,you know because of family problems".That caught Fabian by surprised,and stunned dumped founded he did not know what to say but replied,"Then we cannot see you anymore again?".
She replied."Why not,I would not be far from here"."Should Fate has it that we meet again we will meet again".
"You are so young and still schooling whereas I am eighteen already",she said.
"Yah,lah you are so young",her fat fat friend chipped in."Young cannot fall in love Huh?" said Elder Yap following behind.
"Anyway we shall see",said Ah Har,"but first you be a good boy study first and hope we meet again later".
"Yes,we shall see what life have installed for me in the future",said Fabian."In any case I wish you well".
"Only time will tell,if you love me,you will come to meet me,however difficult",she said in a soft voice,
Well of sight out of mind,as Fabian was still schooling and had plenty of activities,however he never made an attempt to see her.He was infatuated with her but not enough to love no,not yet at least.For fate had it that Fabian not long after this was bound to meet someone ,some else who will steal his heart away and sealed his love for only her forever.Read on.
.Read on.
Others present were some other tappers children,actually there was a huge crowd listening to his story."Come let us listen to him",said young Yap.Fabian was reluctant."Well,it is raining and we had nothing to do,come let us listen to his big cannons",called Elder Yap.
Then Yap said,"Hey!,Fabian - Ah Har is also there",said Elder Yap."Where?"asked Fabian."There behind that tall fat friend of hers",replied Elder Yap."Oh,yes I see her,why don't you all go ahead first than I come later',said Fabian.So all went ahead.
Wah,"said the Old man," I also once shot a very fierce leopard,you all like to hear?"."Yes",replied everyone clapping their hands.Yap brothers and the others also clapped for fun.Fabian also joined them after he had a change of clothes.
"Many years ago".so claimed the old timer,"deep in the thick jungle,there was a spot where the opium leaves were very big and definitely fetched a better price in the market.The female folks requested his help to escort into the jungle.
So he went along with them,they at first could cycled there but when the path became too dense to use bicycles they all parked their bicycle in the bush.Thereafter continued walking it was an extremely long walk,for more that one hour plus.
When they arrived at the spot,the female folks on perceiving abundance of the beautiful large opium leaves rushed on to harvest them.Ignoring of all impending dangers.The old man then said he too was beginning to feel complacent and about to lit a cigarette when his eyes caught the images of a leopard perching on a branch of a nearby tree.
Without a second thought he discarded his lighting of cigarette and intensely lifted up his gun at the leopard,it was excellent reflexes.Just then the leopard was lunging forward at him.Without hesitation he let go a volley of shot at it.It was a gamble he took without even aiming at the leaping leopard.
It was a lucky shot he hope."Bang"his shot rang out loud and clear,the women screamed and ran for cover.Fortunately that lucky shot hit the leopard in the chest.It was felt by that aimless shot,what a lucky day",he exclaimed.Putting his hands to his bared chest,expressing his anxiety and fright what should he really missed.That would have been fatal.
All present clapped and hailed him a hero,so were Fabian and gang.Fabian's eyes caught those of Ah Har and she sent an admiring smile at him.Then she and her friends walked towards the shop with Fabian following her.
She stopped and whispered to Fabian,"My family are shifting away from this place,you know because of family problems".That caught Fabian by surprised,and stunned dumped founded he did not know what to say but replied,"Then we cannot see you anymore again?".
She replied."Why not,I would not be far from here"."Should Fate has it that we meet again we will meet again".
"You are so young and still schooling whereas I am eighteen already",she said.
"Yah,lah you are so young",her fat fat friend chipped in."Young cannot fall in love Huh?" said Elder Yap following behind.
"Anyway we shall see",said Ah Har,"but first you be a good boy study first and hope we meet again later".
"Yes,we shall see what life have installed for me in the future",said Fabian."In any case I wish you well".
"Only time will tell,if you love me,you will come to meet me,however difficult",she said in a soft voice,
Well of sight out of mind,as Fabian was still schooling and had plenty of activities,however he never made an attempt to see her.He was infatuated with her but not enough to love no,not yet at least.For fate had it that Fabian not long after this was bound to meet someone ,some else who will steal his heart away and sealed his love for only her forever.Read on.
.Read on.
Chapter 10 First trip to Kuala Lumpur
Fabian and Francis never in their wildest imaginations would be going to Kuala Lumpur for their school holidays.Their Auntie paid for their trips all the time,just simply because she wanted to make her mother happy and of course the grandmother wanted to meet her grandsons Fabian and Francis.
Their Auntie's bungalow was in Setapak,Kuala Lumpur.There was nothing much in Setapak at that time accept a small cinema which they never attend,so most of the time were spent loitering around the house.Occasionally botyh were taken for a film show in Kuala Lumpur.They remembered Rex but the others they were never cleared,because their Auntie send and fetched them there,entering on complimentary tickets.
There Fabian met a friend named Alex,some wealthy kid living opposite in another huge bungalow.There Fabian learn how toy planes can be made to fly with tiny engines,but such plaything were the least of all things Fabian could imagined to play with.To own one was another thing all beyond his capabilities .
Other days were to play with Francis and little cousin sister Bee.And every day went by without them complaining to the grandmother,Grandma",both will shout or only Bee will shout,"Grand mother,see Fabian the naughty boy is disturbing us".
The good grandmother will then come with a cane,"I will cane you,you naughty boy".
Then both of them will laugh,"See grandmother he is running away".
Fabian knew that the grandmother will never caned him even he were to stand in front of her and not run,just because Fabian was her grandson.Dear grandmother loved her grand children very much otherwise both Fabian and Francis would not be there with her.
There was a time the grandmother was very sick with throat cancer.That was the time Fabian and Francis had to be by her bedside.The ailing Granny was always happy to see both grandsons in front of her during her last breath.Her untimely death brought grieves to all in the family.
The funeral rites were performed in Kuala Lumpur and subsequently she was returned to Teluk Anson for burial at the 9th.Mile Cantonese burial grounds.Every year without failed Fabian and Francis during "Cheng Beng" to worship her.
In memories of her mother,their Auntie continued to support both brothers to spent their holidays in Kuala Lumpur.They also took along another cousin John of theirs.Occasionally,their Auntie also took them for weekend trips at Port Dickson.Trips which they can never dreamed of,and all paid for by their Auntie.
For the first time Fabian saw the sea,he watched the distance huge sea dreaming,while the others,his brother and cousin brother and other members of those trips playing games and enjoying themselves.Cousin John was infatuated with a beautiful girl in the entourage and Francis was having a lovely time with the many girls present.
Fabian was always alone looking at that horizon dreaming,dreaming of what..............................................................................
To be continued
Their Auntie's bungalow was in Setapak,Kuala Lumpur.There was nothing much in Setapak at that time accept a small cinema which they never attend,so most of the time were spent loitering around the house.Occasionally botyh were taken for a film show in Kuala Lumpur.They remembered Rex but the others they were never cleared,because their Auntie send and fetched them there,entering on complimentary tickets.
There Fabian met a friend named Alex,some wealthy kid living opposite in another huge bungalow.There Fabian learn how toy planes can be made to fly with tiny engines,but such plaything were the least of all things Fabian could imagined to play with.To own one was another thing all beyond his capabilities .
Other days were to play with Francis and little cousin sister Bee.And every day went by without them complaining to the grandmother,Grandma",both will shout or only Bee will shout,"Grand mother,see Fabian the naughty boy is disturbing us".
The good grandmother will then come with a cane,"I will cane you,you naughty boy".
Then both of them will laugh,"See grandmother he is running away".
Fabian knew that the grandmother will never caned him even he were to stand in front of her and not run,just because Fabian was her grandson.Dear grandmother loved her grand children very much otherwise both Fabian and Francis would not be there with her.
There was a time the grandmother was very sick with throat cancer.That was the time Fabian and Francis had to be by her bedside.The ailing Granny was always happy to see both grandsons in front of her during her last breath.Her untimely death brought grieves to all in the family.
The funeral rites were performed in Kuala Lumpur and subsequently she was returned to Teluk Anson for burial at the 9th.Mile Cantonese burial grounds.Every year without failed Fabian and Francis during "Cheng Beng" to worship her.
In memories of her mother,their Auntie continued to support both brothers to spent their holidays in Kuala Lumpur.They also took along another cousin John of theirs.Occasionally,their Auntie also took them for weekend trips at Port Dickson.Trips which they can never dreamed of,and all paid for by their Auntie.
For the first time Fabian saw the sea,he watched the distance huge sea dreaming,while the others,his brother and cousin brother and other members of those trips playing games and enjoying themselves.Cousin John was infatuated with a beautiful girl in the entourage and Francis was having a lovely time with the many girls present.
Fabian was always alone looking at that horizon dreaming,dreaming of what..............................................................................
To be continued
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Chapter 9 Hindu Temple Celebration
There was an Indian Temple at the plantation and every year they had clebration where free vegetative lunch were provided.
On that day Fabian and Francis after helping their mother cleaning latex cups and later collecting latex quickly made excused from other chores to be there.THe Yap brothers were already at the shop waiting for them.Veloo and the Indian gang were also there.
The excited group walked to the temple which was about half a mile away from the lines.Many people were already there eating.Fabian and his gang took up positions whenever there was an empty slop available.Very soon his gang had occupied most the spaces.
Lunch was served on banana leaves provided.Fabian was sitting oon the floor next to Veloo.When the man serving came he served rice Veloo requested slightly more,Fabian and the other follow suit.Then came the vegetarian dishes.There was long beans,"Parapu"or "kachang" as everyone called and some sour vegetables.All neatly scooped on to the banana leaves.Eating was with their hands.
As they were enjoying their meal.the elder Yap saw Ah Har and her fat female friends also came with several others.Yap pulled Fabian's hand telling him Ah Har was there.Fabian looked up and saw her in front of him and wished her.She smiled back.
"Got no place?"asked Fabian and she nodded."Don't worry I am finishing my meal so were my friends,we will give you our places".
"Hoi! eat faster all of you",said Fabian.All of them looked at Fabian showing signs of reluctance.
Seeing this Fabian made body languages that he will buy them drinks later and they agreed to consume their food faster.So they eat faster and surrendered their places to the girls.
As they left all of them criticized Fabian,"Eh? giving up our places just because you wanted to tackle that girl so ridiculous of you,shame on you"."Yeah lah",said small Yap.
"Anyway,you as promised must buy each a drink,now we go to the shop to see your next girl friend",said Veloo."Anyway actually which of the two you like, most",asked Elder Yap.
"No,lah just ordinary friends",replied."Then don't do this and that for them",said Francis."You small boy keep quiet",said Fabian.And all shouted back,"You shutup,you Romeo".All of them laughed and walked back to the shop.
Fabian was not in love with either of them just plain simple infatuations nothing more than that,not even puppy loves.How can a young boy of fifteen fall in love or has he not meet the correct one = his dream girl.Read on to find out.
On that day Fabian and Francis after helping their mother cleaning latex cups and later collecting latex quickly made excused from other chores to be there.THe Yap brothers were already at the shop waiting for them.Veloo and the Indian gang were also there.
The excited group walked to the temple which was about half a mile away from the lines.Many people were already there eating.Fabian and his gang took up positions whenever there was an empty slop available.Very soon his gang had occupied most the spaces.
Lunch was served on banana leaves provided.Fabian was sitting oon the floor next to Veloo.When the man serving came he served rice Veloo requested slightly more,Fabian and the other follow suit.Then came the vegetarian dishes.There was long beans,"Parapu"or "kachang" as everyone called and some sour vegetables.All neatly scooped on to the banana leaves.Eating was with their hands.
As they were enjoying their meal.the elder Yap saw Ah Har and her fat female friends also came with several others.Yap pulled Fabian's hand telling him Ah Har was there.Fabian looked up and saw her in front of him and wished her.She smiled back.
"Got no place?"asked Fabian and she nodded."Don't worry I am finishing my meal so were my friends,we will give you our places".
"Hoi! eat faster all of you",said Fabian.All of them looked at Fabian showing signs of reluctance.
Seeing this Fabian made body languages that he will buy them drinks later and they agreed to consume their food faster.So they eat faster and surrendered their places to the girls.
As they left all of them criticized Fabian,"Eh? giving up our places just because you wanted to tackle that girl so ridiculous of you,shame on you"."Yeah lah",said small Yap.
"Anyway,you as promised must buy each a drink,now we go to the shop to see your next girl friend",said Veloo."Anyway actually which of the two you like, most",asked Elder Yap.
"No,lah just ordinary friends",replied."Then don't do this and that for them",said Francis."You small boy keep quiet",said Fabian.And all shouted back,"You shutup,you Romeo".All of them laughed and walked back to the shop.
Fabian was not in love with either of them just plain simple infatuations nothing more than that,not even puppy loves.How can a young boy of fifteen fall in love or has he not meet the correct one = his dream girl.Read on to find out.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Chapter 8 Judgement By the Plantation Manager.
Fabian was never in the employment of the Plantation Management yet was a hauled up by them to stand before the Manager.It could be serious if Fabian does not know how to handle that case.
Fabian was not only friendly with the Yap brothers but also with a neighbor's son.One fine weekend holiday he invited Fabian to look for dry rubber wood and Fabian immediately agreed.That young boy who was also of similar age had a big bicycle with a huge carrier at its back.Poor Fabian had a small bicycle with a tiny carrier.
Despite of the disadvantage Fabian went with him to look for fire wood at a replanting field.There they came across a dead tree with a beautiful dry branch.Kam could not climbed that tree or dared not climbed it.So he beckon Fabian to do it.
Fabian gave a second thought and hesitated to do so,because there was no way he could transport the amount of wood from that branch.Kam seeing this assured him and offered to transport the bigger pieces on his bicycle and Fabian carried those smaller ones.On returning home he would share the wood with Fabian.
So Fabian agreed to climb and chopped down that branch with eased.Then both of them chopped up the branch and loaded on to Kam's bicycle.Whereas Fabian loaded the smaller pieces on to his carrier.
On reaching home Kam's sister saw the two loads of wood and laughingly made a sexist commend saying ,"Aiya,see my brother very clever,bringing home very nice big pieces of firewood whereas you,Fabian had nothing but small twigs, shame on you".Kam at that instances without hesitation admitted to her that was his wood.
Getting tired and irritated,the furious Fabian rushed near to Kam and asked,"Where is my share of the firewood?."No,no nothing is yours, what is on my carrier is mine nothing to do with you".replied Kam.
"Oh yeah",said Fabian,at the same time releasing a powerful right cross blow to Kam's nose,which sent him sprawling on the ground with a bleeding nose."You are a liar and a cheat,talk some more I give more punches",shouted Fabian.
"Fabian punched Kam,come and help",shouted the sister.Kam's parents came running out of the house seeing Kam's condition shouted'"How dare you beat my son?"
"I report to the Plantation Manager about this ",said Kam's mother.
"Go ahead,I am not afraid",said Fabian.
Next afternoon Fabian was asked to present himself at the office of the Plantation Manager,Mr. Dobbins.Kam also went along.When Fabian entered the office he wished the Manager,"Good Afternoon,Sir",whereas Kam kept quiet.
"Good afternoon.Well,young man what have you to say about yesterday's fighting?",asked Mr.Dobbins.
Fabian related the Manager the whole events that took place the day before and concluded by telling the Manager that Kam had cheated him and that it was out of sudden raged that he punched Kam on the nose.
The Manager than asked Kam,"Who climbed the tree to cut that branch?"Kam admitted it was Fabian.He however,insisted that the wood was his because he carried those wood home on his bicycle,"why should I share with him?".
"Did you agreed to share with him?"asked the Manager.
"But I brought them back on my bicycle not his",insisted Kam.
"Then Fabian,you can go home,you did right in punching him.Next time add two more punches on my behalf of me",request a jovial Manager.
Turning to Kam he said,"Next time you all bring such trivial matters to me again,I sacked both your parents,then you know,now get out of my sight".
Mr.Dobbins and Fabian had an uncanny linked,because during the initial stages of his career in planting he had meet with Mr Dobbins in a neighboring Plantation namely Eagle Hurst Estate,Ulu Sapetang,Taiping,Perak.While Fabian was in Hurst Estate.However Dobbins did not recognized Fabian but Fabian knew who he was.
but he let it be a secret.
Fabian was not only friendly with the Yap brothers but also with a neighbor's son.One fine weekend holiday he invited Fabian to look for dry rubber wood and Fabian immediately agreed.That young boy who was also of similar age had a big bicycle with a huge carrier at its back.Poor Fabian had a small bicycle with a tiny carrier.
Despite of the disadvantage Fabian went with him to look for fire wood at a replanting field.There they came across a dead tree with a beautiful dry branch.Kam could not climbed that tree or dared not climbed it.So he beckon Fabian to do it.
Fabian gave a second thought and hesitated to do so,because there was no way he could transport the amount of wood from that branch.Kam seeing this assured him and offered to transport the bigger pieces on his bicycle and Fabian carried those smaller ones.On returning home he would share the wood with Fabian.
So Fabian agreed to climb and chopped down that branch with eased.Then both of them chopped up the branch and loaded on to Kam's bicycle.Whereas Fabian loaded the smaller pieces on to his carrier.
On reaching home Kam's sister saw the two loads of wood and laughingly made a sexist commend saying ,"Aiya,see my brother very clever,bringing home very nice big pieces of firewood whereas you,Fabian had nothing but small twigs, shame on you".Kam at that instances without hesitation admitted to her that was his wood.
Getting tired and irritated,the furious Fabian rushed near to Kam and asked,"Where is my share of the firewood?."No,no nothing is yours, what is on my carrier is mine nothing to do with you".replied Kam.
"Oh yeah",said Fabian,at the same time releasing a powerful right cross blow to Kam's nose,which sent him sprawling on the ground with a bleeding nose."You are a liar and a cheat,talk some more I give more punches",shouted Fabian.
"Fabian punched Kam,come and help",shouted the sister.Kam's parents came running out of the house seeing Kam's condition shouted'"How dare you beat my son?"
"I report to the Plantation Manager about this ",said Kam's mother.
"Go ahead,I am not afraid",said Fabian.
Next afternoon Fabian was asked to present himself at the office of the Plantation Manager,Mr. Dobbins.Kam also went along.When Fabian entered the office he wished the Manager,"Good Afternoon,Sir",whereas Kam kept quiet.
"Good afternoon.Well,young man what have you to say about yesterday's fighting?",asked Mr.Dobbins.
Fabian related the Manager the whole events that took place the day before and concluded by telling the Manager that Kam had cheated him and that it was out of sudden raged that he punched Kam on the nose.
The Manager than asked Kam,"Who climbed the tree to cut that branch?"Kam admitted it was Fabian.He however,insisted that the wood was his because he carried those wood home on his bicycle,"why should I share with him?".
"Did you agreed to share with him?"asked the Manager.
"But I brought them back on my bicycle not his",insisted Kam.
"Then Fabian,you can go home,you did right in punching him.Next time add two more punches on my behalf of me",request a jovial Manager.
Turning to Kam he said,"Next time you all bring such trivial matters to me again,I sacked both your parents,then you know,now get out of my sight".
Mr.Dobbins and Fabian had an uncanny linked,because during the initial stages of his career in planting he had meet with Mr Dobbins in a neighboring Plantation namely Eagle Hurst Estate,Ulu Sapetang,Taiping,Perak.While Fabian was in Hurst Estate.However Dobbins did not recognized Fabian but Fabian knew who he was.
but he let it be a secret.
Chapter 7 Fabian's Sister.
Fabian's elder sister got her Senior Cambridge School Certificate Examinations in March 1959 while they had just shifted to reside in the plantation.
Those days her result was the best in Lower Perak areas,she got an aggregate of six for six best subjects that meant 6 distinctions.Hers burning midnight oil paid off handsomely.Actually it was an achievement beyond descriptions.A young girl from a poor family studying under the light of a kerosene lamp excelled in that final examinations.
Many friends came to congratulate her thereafter.Fabian thus met many new friends a year or two older than him.His sister of course was overnight celebrity.
One of the older friend who came was Kee whom Fabian became very chummy in the days to come.
She became a temporarily teacher soon after her Cambridge Examinations.To the reverend Mother of the Convent her result was expected.Every morning she cycled to school and on the way out of the estate there were many dogs which would chased people riding bicycle.
The problem was she was scared of those dogs and many times nearly hurt herself,and she had to wait for Fabian to escort her out of that estate.Fabian as usual was always late."Aiya,sister dear,why don't you carry a stick to chase those dogs away yourself",Fabian would say.
"She is a girl,surely afraid of dogs lah".said Francis.
"Then you help her",replied Fabian". "I am a small boy,also afraid of those dogs,too",said Francis.
"Do it or I tell mother about it later.Should I be late to school,I hold you responsible,you naughty boy",cried the sister.
"Alright I do it now you better move fast",said Fabian.
"Are you not going to wash your face first?",asked the sister.
"I do it after I sent you off to school,I do not want to be blame for yours being late",said Fabian.
"Dirty fellow",remarked the sister.Almost everyday was like that many a time Fabian will shoot the dogs with his catapult,that really put them in flight at his sight.
One day Fabian took aimed at the dogs,he took a number of shots at them with many missing,but one wild shot hit something else.Yes a wild shot hit someone's backside.
"AiYoooo",shouted a female voice.Putting his tongue out Fabian quickly approached near to the shot female rubber tapper.
At first he though was an old woman so must quickly apologized to her.As he sneaked closely to her the woman took off her head scarf.Wah,he was surprised to find a stunningly attractive dame,dark and petite standing in front of him,clutching her aching back. Fabian blushed and marveled with opened mouth.
"I am sorry,miss,I hit you by mistake I was shooting those dogs,please.......pl. forgive me",said a red faced Fabian.The girl although in slight pain replied'"Never mind,so you are the new boy everyone talking about?Now that you shot my back,and it hurts",said that girl.
"Very sorrlie loo",replied a blushing Fabian.
"I buy you a drink from the shop ,as an apology,okay?",said Fabian.At the insistence of Fabian that dark and petite young girl relented and shyly replied,"Okay,make it quick,I am thirsty now".Before running off Fabian asked,"May I know your name,please?",asked Fabian.'Why do you want to know,any way never mind it is Ah Har",said the girl."and I am Fabian",replied Fabian.
Happily Fabian ran as quickly as he can towards the shop for a packet of warm tea.
Thereafter,that girl and Fabian became friends,atlas, now he was infatuated by her lovely looks he has a motive in going to lines in the evening.Well,since it was fact that girl was tapping there,thereafter Fabian willingly sent his sister from their house to the roadside without any hustle.
His sister was surprised at a changed in his attitude."Sure.lah.I know the reason why?", said Francis."Shhh shh",said Fabian."Try to be bully me again, I tell every body about it", continued Francis."Okay,I won't be funny again with you,lah".
Fabian's sister because of her good results was given the opportunity to study in Brinsford Lodge,United Kingdom to become a teacher.The course took two years to complete.So there after she left for United Kingdom.
The whole family send her off at Subang Airport,Kuala Lumpur.Before she left the whole family stayed the residence of her Auntie.
Those days her result was the best in Lower Perak areas,she got an aggregate of six for six best subjects that meant 6 distinctions.Hers burning midnight oil paid off handsomely.Actually it was an achievement beyond descriptions.A young girl from a poor family studying under the light of a kerosene lamp excelled in that final examinations.
Many friends came to congratulate her thereafter.Fabian thus met many new friends a year or two older than him.His sister of course was overnight celebrity.
One of the older friend who came was Kee whom Fabian became very chummy in the days to come.
She became a temporarily teacher soon after her Cambridge Examinations.To the reverend Mother of the Convent her result was expected.Every morning she cycled to school and on the way out of the estate there were many dogs which would chased people riding bicycle.
The problem was she was scared of those dogs and many times nearly hurt herself,and she had to wait for Fabian to escort her out of that estate.Fabian as usual was always late."Aiya,sister dear,why don't you carry a stick to chase those dogs away yourself",Fabian would say.
"She is a girl,surely afraid of dogs lah".said Francis.
"Then you help her",replied Fabian". "I am a small boy,also afraid of those dogs,too",said Francis.
"Do it or I tell mother about it later.Should I be late to school,I hold you responsible,you naughty boy",cried the sister.
"Alright I do it now you better move fast",said Fabian.
"Are you not going to wash your face first?",asked the sister.
"I do it after I sent you off to school,I do not want to be blame for yours being late",said Fabian.
"Dirty fellow",remarked the sister.Almost everyday was like that many a time Fabian will shoot the dogs with his catapult,that really put them in flight at his sight.
One day Fabian took aimed at the dogs,he took a number of shots at them with many missing,but one wild shot hit something else.Yes a wild shot hit someone's backside.
"AiYoooo",shouted a female voice.Putting his tongue out Fabian quickly approached near to the shot female rubber tapper.
At first he though was an old woman so must quickly apologized to her.As he sneaked closely to her the woman took off her head scarf.Wah,he was surprised to find a stunningly attractive dame,dark and petite standing in front of him,clutching her aching back. Fabian blushed and marveled with opened mouth.
"I am sorry,miss,I hit you by mistake I was shooting those dogs,please.......pl. forgive me",said a red faced Fabian.The girl although in slight pain replied'"Never mind,so you are the new boy everyone talking about?Now that you shot my back,and it hurts",said that girl.
"Very sorrlie loo",replied a blushing Fabian.
"I buy you a drink from the shop ,as an apology,okay?",said Fabian.At the insistence of Fabian that dark and petite young girl relented and shyly replied,"Okay,make it quick,I am thirsty now".Before running off Fabian asked,"May I know your name,please?",asked Fabian.'Why do you want to know,any way never mind it is Ah Har",said the girl."and I am Fabian",replied Fabian.
Happily Fabian ran as quickly as he can towards the shop for a packet of warm tea.
Thereafter,that girl and Fabian became friends,atlas, now he was infatuated by her lovely looks he has a motive in going to lines in the evening.Well,since it was fact that girl was tapping there,thereafter Fabian willingly sent his sister from their house to the roadside without any hustle.
His sister was surprised at a changed in his attitude."Sure.lah.I know the reason why?", said Francis."Shhh shh",said Fabian."Try to be bully me again, I tell every body about it", continued Francis."Okay,I won't be funny again with you,lah".
Fabian's sister because of her good results was given the opportunity to study in Brinsford Lodge,United Kingdom to become a teacher.The course took two years to complete.So there after she left for United Kingdom.
The whole family send her off at Subang Airport,Kuala Lumpur.Before she left the whole family stayed the residence of her Auntie.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Chapter 6 Fishing at the Water Gates
Water gates,almost everywhere Teluk Anson had many water gates,so much so Fabian thought President Nixon learn about them from Teluk Anson.No,lah only a silly joke how can Nixon learn from Malaya about them.
So as suggested the day before the gang set out to fish at that water gate Heng mentioned.The Yap brothers had the patient to sit quietly at one spot and fished,but Fabian did not have that type of patient.He was lying on the cemented side and sleeping.However his brother was never like him and followed the Yap brothers sitting quietly and fished.
Minutes passed the elder Yap was the first to catch one fish."It is a "ikan hantu",(ikan hantu is a very lazy fish that sleep in one place all the time waiting for food to come to its mouth)."It is not big but at least something",said the elder Yap.
"Let me see so this is the "ikan hantu",asked Fabian,"fish not taking my bait,why?"asked Fabian."Because you moved about too much",says Francis."wait,I catch one for you,you see",said Fabian.No sooner had he stopped talking his bait was taken and he hurriedly pulled up the rod.Sure enough there was a fish.
A smiling Fabian said,"See I told you so,I got a fish"."Yeah,lah you clever',said Francis.That day they got a number of fishes to take home for dinner.About to go they saw a number of mud jumpers."Aiya,very ugly fish,can jump very well with big jutting eyes.Can swim and jump on land,luckily cannot eat".
Yes,those days people do not eat them now the Japanese and people in Hong Kong, and Taiwan consumed them.
The river was just a short distance away and they never bothered to wander towards it,for there was another bigger water gate further up.Fabian and the Yap brothers often went there to fish and to swim.The stream flowing out there was very much bigger and deep enough to swim.
Fresh water oysters but not many,because whenever the gang went there were only a handful of them,insufficient to go round for everyone,so the elder Yap took them home.But swimming at that water gate was wonderful,so peaceful and no disturbances whatsoever.
So as suggested the day before the gang set out to fish at that water gate Heng mentioned.The Yap brothers had the patient to sit quietly at one spot and fished,but Fabian did not have that type of patient.He was lying on the cemented side and sleeping.However his brother was never like him and followed the Yap brothers sitting quietly and fished.
Minutes passed the elder Yap was the first to catch one fish."It is a "ikan hantu",(ikan hantu is a very lazy fish that sleep in one place all the time waiting for food to come to its mouth)."It is not big but at least something",said the elder Yap.
"Let me see so this is the "ikan hantu",asked Fabian,"fish not taking my bait,why?"asked Fabian."Because you moved about too much",says Francis."wait,I catch one for you,you see",said Fabian.No sooner had he stopped talking his bait was taken and he hurriedly pulled up the rod.Sure enough there was a fish.
A smiling Fabian said,"See I told you so,I got a fish"."Yeah,lah you clever',said Francis.That day they got a number of fishes to take home for dinner.About to go they saw a number of mud jumpers."Aiya,very ugly fish,can jump very well with big jutting eyes.Can swim and jump on land,luckily cannot eat".
Yes,those days people do not eat them now the Japanese and people in Hong Kong, and Taiwan consumed them.
The river was just a short distance away and they never bothered to wander towards it,for there was another bigger water gate further up.Fabian and the Yap brothers often went there to fish and to swim.The stream flowing out there was very much bigger and deep enough to swim.
Fresh water oysters but not many,because whenever the gang went there were only a handful of them,insufficient to go round for everyone,so the elder Yap took them home.But swimming at that water gate was wonderful,so peaceful and no disturbances whatsoever.
Chapter 5 The Pig Farm
As f the plantation was not large enough for them to play Fabian and company ventured out towards the opposite plantation Cecisly Estate.They did not go into that plantation but went on its boundary where there were a couple of farmers.
The first farm was a Pig farm and they know those two boys in that farm,So they went without invitation but since they and the two brothers had met before,they were treated with fruit (Nangka).Very sweet and fresh nangka.
Then they went round and saw the pigs.Thee was a huge female pigs with many piglets.Fabian wanted to play with those piglets and requested Heng the elder of the two brothers whether he can catch and play with them.Heng said,"Okay.you can if you can catch them".
So Fabian went into the pig sty and make several attempts to catch them but failed with everyone laughing.The piglets were making a lot of noise so much so Heng's father came out and "Hey.don't play with the pigs".Fabian came out shyly.
"Go and washed your hands they are filthy and smelly",said Yap.As he was washing his hands he saw Heng's brother Keng chopping wild yam leaves."So every day you collect those yam leaves are for the pigs?"asked Fabian."Yeah.lah",replied Keng.
"Having collected them must chopped them into smaller pieces before cooking",said Keng."Serving them like that,so plain?",asked Fabian."No.sometimes we add in animals feed and some times left overs from restaurants".Fabian helped him to do some chopping,the others also joined in the fun.
"Wait and you will know your hands will itch,then you know",said Francis."No never",replied Keng."you surely not itchy because you used to it",exclaimed Francis.
"Yeah ,huh?I am feeling slightly itchy now,I better go and wash up a bit",said Fabian.
Then they help Keng to feed the pigs.The pigs apparently were hungry for all of them rushed up for their meal as soon as laid out for them in the trays."This way they will grow fat very fast",said Heng.
Soon it was lunch time and Heng invited all four of them for lunch."Nothing special only porridge.We teowchew like to eat porridge during lunch",said Heng.Hungry they all joined in.Each were given a bowl of porridge.For vegetables they had "kangkong" fried in Shrimps paste,sweet potatoes leaves,and fired fish.
"This fish I caught at the water gate further down stream",said Heng."Very big "haruan",I did not know you got so big fish there",replied elder Yap,"To-morrow we go fishing,right?".All agreed.
The Pig farm was not big at all and there were at least three pig stys.Heng's family also bred chickens and ducks which can be seen running all over as well as in their house.It sure was messy but that was the way small farmers lived.At the back of the house they planted a lot of sweet potatoes and other vegetables.
They do not have piped water as Fabian and Yap brothers does,they used water from their own well which was at the back of their house.From the back of their house they can see their neighbors at work producing bean curbs and "Foo Choek".
"Oh,I see that was how "Foo Cheok"was being produced",said Fabian."On boiling the grind beans the layer forming on the top were constantly removed and hanged out to dry,and that was how "Foo Cheok"was being made.The way they made them seem a bit unhygienic".
"No,no it is clean",said Heng,"only thing they like us used well water".
The first farm was a Pig farm and they know those two boys in that farm,So they went without invitation but since they and the two brothers had met before,they were treated with fruit (Nangka).Very sweet and fresh nangka.
Then they went round and saw the pigs.Thee was a huge female pigs with many piglets.Fabian wanted to play with those piglets and requested Heng the elder of the two brothers whether he can catch and play with them.Heng said,"Okay.you can if you can catch them".
So Fabian went into the pig sty and make several attempts to catch them but failed with everyone laughing.The piglets were making a lot of noise so much so Heng's father came out and "Hey.don't play with the pigs".Fabian came out shyly.
"Go and washed your hands they are filthy and smelly",said Yap.As he was washing his hands he saw Heng's brother Keng chopping wild yam leaves."So every day you collect those yam leaves are for the pigs?"asked Fabian."Yeah.lah",replied Keng.
"Having collected them must chopped them into smaller pieces before cooking",said Keng."Serving them like that,so plain?",asked Fabian."No.sometimes we add in animals feed and some times left overs from restaurants".Fabian helped him to do some chopping,the others also joined in the fun.
"Wait and you will know your hands will itch,then you know",said Francis."No never",replied Keng."you surely not itchy because you used to it",exclaimed Francis.
"Yeah ,huh?I am feeling slightly itchy now,I better go and wash up a bit",said Fabian.
Then they help Keng to feed the pigs.The pigs apparently were hungry for all of them rushed up for their meal as soon as laid out for them in the trays."This way they will grow fat very fast",said Heng.
Soon it was lunch time and Heng invited all four of them for lunch."Nothing special only porridge.We teowchew like to eat porridge during lunch",said Heng.Hungry they all joined in.Each were given a bowl of porridge.For vegetables they had "kangkong" fried in Shrimps paste,sweet potatoes leaves,and fired fish.
"This fish I caught at the water gate further down stream",said Heng."Very big "haruan",I did not know you got so big fish there",replied elder Yap,"To-morrow we go fishing,right?".All agreed.
The Pig farm was not big at all and there were at least three pig stys.Heng's family also bred chickens and ducks which can be seen running all over as well as in their house.It sure was messy but that was the way small farmers lived.At the back of the house they planted a lot of sweet potatoes and other vegetables.
They do not have piped water as Fabian and Yap brothers does,they used water from their own well which was at the back of their house.From the back of their house they can see their neighbors at work producing bean curbs and "Foo Choek".
"Oh,I see that was how "Foo Cheok"was being produced",said Fabian."On boiling the grind beans the layer forming on the top were constantly removed and hanged out to dry,and that was how "Foo Cheok"was being made.The way they made them seem a bit unhygienic".
"No,no it is clean",said Heng,"only thing they like us used well water".
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Chapter 4 Fabian's Indian friends
As usual the Yap brothers and Fabian were always wandering here and there in the linesite.Whenever the Yap brothers were not out tp play,Fabian will go round alone.
His closest friends were the Veloo brothers,many boys and two girls or so.There was one almost the same age as Fabian.Both got along fine his name was Veloo and studied at St Anthony School.
With nothing to do Fabian will chit-chat with him till late at night,just talking away.One evening Fabian saw lights in the fields nearby.It was small dim lights like lights from kerosene lamps.
"Look,ghosts in the field",said Fabian.Looking at the direction Fabian pointed Veloo laughed and replied,"Those are not ghosts,those are people doing their thing in the field".
"I see,don't they go to the toilets?"asked Fabian.
"No,they prefer the field,one thing the toilets were very filthy,right?".
"Yes,but that is better than doing it in the field,so much mosquitoes?',said Fabian."No wonder those nearby areas stink",said Fabian.
"Estate toilets were filthy all the time and insufficient water provided to wash them and the line sweepers only cleaned them once a day".
Those were the days in the plantation.
There were other group of Indian living in that plantation and they were the Telegu.They conversed quite differently from the Tamils.Fabian is friendly with all of them.All these boys go to school by bus.
Veloo had a brother married to a Chinese Tapper,the brother worked in town.The Chinese wife's family also reside in the same line site.
When they go bathing,all of them went together because there were only two common bath rooms for every body.So whenever Veloo went to bath he often asked Fabian to join in.And all of them shared a bath room making hell of a racket of the whole thing.
One day Veloo invited Fabian for a walk in the field nearby.Veloo told Fabian to walk only on the path people normally used,failing which a miss step will stepped on something very smelly.As they walk farther into that field they were surprised to see two persons ahead of them.
Veloo surprised at what was ahead said,"That is Tangaveloo,I know him but who is with him".He looked at them a little longer and could identify the other person."Aiyo,it is Minachi,they in love",said Veloo.
"Better not meet them,I think we turned into the field and go back.Both of them turned and walk into the field."Aiyo I step on something soft",said Fabian."Me too',said Veloo. Both of them were stepping on human waste."Shit","what luck"they both exclaimed.
It was in the plantation that Fabian and Francis learned how to play football.That plantation had a very tiny field about the quarter size of a normal football field.There was nothing they could but played on it.
Number of players were also limited and they were often forced to to play six or seven a side.One fine day the shop keeper's elder daughter was sitting in front of her house and seeing that Fabian wanted to show off a little bit.
So he requested Veloo his team mate to deliver him that opportunity.Veloo agreed and when the time came he back pedal a beautiful pass for Fabian.Fabian seized that golden opportunity and tried to administer a punishing finish towards goal.
But alas that was not to be,for as he was a little too slow in delivering that kick.For a an extremely fast elder Yap came from behind and stole that ball away from his foot.So Fabian miss kicked the ball by miles,not only that he flew up and landed hard on his back.
Everyone laughed as Fabian struggled to craw up,clutching his backside.Veloo quickly came and gave him a hand."Why you so slow?Want to show off also must be fast",said Veloo."Wah,it really hurt",cried Fabian as he limped away to continue the game.
There were a lot fun all round in the plantation and plenty of activities at night for Fabian and company.One evening they played hide and seek,in very different style.Again they divided into two teams.
Fabian's team was to seek and Veloo's team was to hide."This Indian fellows very difficult to detect them,especially at night"."Don't worry,Yap,there is a way",said Fabian.
As they go about looking Fabian suddenly pulled the elder Yap and siliently told him the location of Veloo.Veloo was hiding behind a tree."See Yap,Veloo is behind that tree",said Fabian."Where I cannot see him in the dark",asked Yap.
"Yes,you can,see his teeth is giving him away',said Fabian."Oh yeah ,I see him now",replied Yap.""I will run straight,pretending not to see him,after I passed him you and the others confront him,okay?"asked Fabian.
So they did as planned and Veloo was caught,Having caught the leader Fabian and team mates won that game."How did you know I was behind that tree?".asked Veloo surprisingly.
"Well,Veloo your teeth gave you away,Ha,aha,ha.",claimed all joking over it.
His closest friends were the Veloo brothers,many boys and two girls or so.There was one almost the same age as Fabian.Both got along fine his name was Veloo and studied at St Anthony School.
With nothing to do Fabian will chit-chat with him till late at night,just talking away.One evening Fabian saw lights in the fields nearby.It was small dim lights like lights from kerosene lamps.
"Look,ghosts in the field",said Fabian.Looking at the direction Fabian pointed Veloo laughed and replied,"Those are not ghosts,those are people doing their thing in the field".
"I see,don't they go to the toilets?"asked Fabian.
"No,they prefer the field,one thing the toilets were very filthy,right?".
"Yes,but that is better than doing it in the field,so much mosquitoes?',said Fabian."No wonder those nearby areas stink",said Fabian.
"Estate toilets were filthy all the time and insufficient water provided to wash them and the line sweepers only cleaned them once a day".
Those were the days in the plantation.
There were other group of Indian living in that plantation and they were the Telegu.They conversed quite differently from the Tamils.Fabian is friendly with all of them.All these boys go to school by bus.
Veloo had a brother married to a Chinese Tapper,the brother worked in town.The Chinese wife's family also reside in the same line site.
When they go bathing,all of them went together because there were only two common bath rooms for every body.So whenever Veloo went to bath he often asked Fabian to join in.And all of them shared a bath room making hell of a racket of the whole thing.
One day Veloo invited Fabian for a walk in the field nearby.Veloo told Fabian to walk only on the path people normally used,failing which a miss step will stepped on something very smelly.As they walk farther into that field they were surprised to see two persons ahead of them.
Veloo surprised at what was ahead said,"That is Tangaveloo,I know him but who is with him".He looked at them a little longer and could identify the other person."Aiyo,it is Minachi,they in love",said Veloo.
"Better not meet them,I think we turned into the field and go back.Both of them turned and walk into the field."Aiyo I step on something soft",said Fabian."Me too',said Veloo. Both of them were stepping on human waste."Shit","what luck"they both exclaimed.
It was in the plantation that Fabian and Francis learned how to play football.That plantation had a very tiny field about the quarter size of a normal football field.There was nothing they could but played on it.
Number of players were also limited and they were often forced to to play six or seven a side.One fine day the shop keeper's elder daughter was sitting in front of her house and seeing that Fabian wanted to show off a little bit.
So he requested Veloo his team mate to deliver him that opportunity.Veloo agreed and when the time came he back pedal a beautiful pass for Fabian.Fabian seized that golden opportunity and tried to administer a punishing finish towards goal.
But alas that was not to be,for as he was a little too slow in delivering that kick.For a an extremely fast elder Yap came from behind and stole that ball away from his foot.So Fabian miss kicked the ball by miles,not only that he flew up and landed hard on his back.
Everyone laughed as Fabian struggled to craw up,clutching his backside.Veloo quickly came and gave him a hand."Why you so slow?Want to show off also must be fast",said Veloo."Wah,it really hurt",cried Fabian as he limped away to continue the game.
There were a lot fun all round in the plantation and plenty of activities at night for Fabian and company.One evening they played hide and seek,in very different style.Again they divided into two teams.
Fabian's team was to seek and Veloo's team was to hide."This Indian fellows very difficult to detect them,especially at night"."Don't worry,Yap,there is a way",said Fabian.
As they go about looking Fabian suddenly pulled the elder Yap and siliently told him the location of Veloo.Veloo was hiding behind a tree."See Yap,Veloo is behind that tree",said Fabian."Where I cannot see him in the dark",asked Yap.
"Yes,you can,see his teeth is giving him away',said Fabian."Oh yeah ,I see him now",replied Yap.""I will run straight,pretending not to see him,after I passed him you and the others confront him,okay?"asked Fabian.
So they did as planned and Veloo was caught,Having caught the leader Fabian and team mates won that game."How did you know I was behind that tree?".asked Veloo surprisingly.
"Well,Veloo your teeth gave you away,Ha,aha,ha.",claimed all joking over it.
Chapter 3 The Shopkeeper's Daughter
Don't tell me you already know that girl?"."But you just came here only less than a week?",not believing Fabian."I know you are lying",he continued.
"Don't believe follow me,just follow me",said Fabian.
All of them walked into the small shop,but the daughter was not there.Only the mother was there and she said,"What do you want?"
"I want to buy some sweets.here give me ten worth of it",requested Fabian.The old woman gave him four sweets as Fabian was looking every where but could not find the daughter.
As they were leaving a very young girl came out to the shop,she smiled as she was walking out.On leaving the shop the Yap brothers chilled Fabian,"That small girl your girl friend?"."Ha,Ha,ha"they all laughed at Fabian.
"No lah,not this girl she is much too young,the elder sister,lah?",claimed Fabian.
As they were chit-chatting in front of their house,they saw a car drove in and parked near the shop.Out came the Elder daughter with a young man escorting.
"Fabian,you got no chance lah",said the elder Yap,"she got a boy friend".
"You got no chance,Fabian all you got is an old bicycle",so said all of them.
"She is not married yet,so I can wait for my opportunity",said Fabian.
Next morning as he was going to school,the shop keeper's daughter was sweeping outside.She stared at Fabian,and Fabian said "Hi",to her.She did not reply but smiled back.
That whole week Fabian tried to get an opportunity to talk to her to prove to the Yap brothers he was man enough to tackle her.However,that time came one fine Saturday morning.He saw her sitting at her window in front of the shop and he approached her.
As he neared her,she smiled and said,"So,you just shifted here ,isn't so?".
"yes,we just shifted here",replied Fabian."Are you still schooling?",Fabian asked.
"Yes", she said,"I am in Form five of the Convent school and you?".
"Me?,Well,I am in form...............four",replied Fabian."So you must be younger than me by one year,right?",she asked.
Feeling a bit shy and a bit blushed Fabian replied,"Yes'.As he wished to continue talking her mother called out to her to aid her in something,and she went to her.That was the end of that talk.
As days went by Fabian saw her every now and then,but there was no attraction or any feeling towards her let alone love.Basically she was a very attractive,pretty and fair girl.Later that girl had a regular boy friend,often taking her out.
The Yap brothers as if they had nothing better to do continued teasing poor Fabian."Aiya,so many girls around.I am in no hurry to tackle any girl as yet",so said Fabian."Failing which I can go after your sisters,right?".
"Surely you can,wait I tell my mother about it,okay?",said the elder Yap.
"Tell your mother,no more friendships,then you know",said Fabian.
"Don't believe follow me,just follow me",said Fabian.
All of them walked into the small shop,but the daughter was not there.Only the mother was there and she said,"What do you want?"
"I want to buy some sweets.here give me ten worth of it",requested Fabian.The old woman gave him four sweets as Fabian was looking every where but could not find the daughter.
As they were leaving a very young girl came out to the shop,she smiled as she was walking out.On leaving the shop the Yap brothers chilled Fabian,"That small girl your girl friend?"."Ha,Ha,ha"they all laughed at Fabian.
"No lah,not this girl she is much too young,the elder sister,lah?",claimed Fabian.
As they were chit-chatting in front of their house,they saw a car drove in and parked near the shop.Out came the Elder daughter with a young man escorting.
"Fabian,you got no chance lah",said the elder Yap,"she got a boy friend".
"You got no chance,Fabian all you got is an old bicycle",so said all of them.
"She is not married yet,so I can wait for my opportunity",said Fabian.
Next morning as he was going to school,the shop keeper's daughter was sweeping outside.She stared at Fabian,and Fabian said "Hi",to her.She did not reply but smiled back.
That whole week Fabian tried to get an opportunity to talk to her to prove to the Yap brothers he was man enough to tackle her.However,that time came one fine Saturday morning.He saw her sitting at her window in front of the shop and he approached her.
As he neared her,she smiled and said,"So,you just shifted here ,isn't so?".
"yes,we just shifted here",replied Fabian."Are you still schooling?",Fabian asked.
"Yes", she said,"I am in Form five of the Convent school and you?".
"Me?,Well,I am in form...............four",replied Fabian."So you must be younger than me by one year,right?",she asked.
Feeling a bit shy and a bit blushed Fabian replied,"Yes'.As he wished to continue talking her mother called out to her to aid her in something,and she went to her.That was the end of that talk.
As days went by Fabian saw her every now and then,but there was no attraction or any feeling towards her let alone love.Basically she was a very attractive,pretty and fair girl.Later that girl had a regular boy friend,often taking her out.
The Yap brothers as if they had nothing better to do continued teasing poor Fabian."Aiya,so many girls around.I am in no hurry to tackle any girl as yet",so said Fabian."Failing which I can go after your sisters,right?".
"Surely you can,wait I tell my mother about it,okay?",said the elder Yap.
"Tell your mother,no more friendships,then you know",said Fabian.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Chapter 2 The Story Teller
The first comical character Fabian meet on the plantation was an old man in his sixties.This old man lived two units away from Fabian's house.Every morning he sit along the veranda yearning away while puffing his cigarettes.
Fabian when new sat far away listening to what he had to say.When joined by the Yap brothers,all of them moved nearer to listen to what story he had been telling.Fabian remembered well of a story about shooting of a tiger.
His audiences were mostly small children of those Chinese families residing in that plantation.The Yap brothers with Fabian and brothers gathered round to listen.Those days they all played about topless and bare footed.
Well,the tiger story.This old man always yearned about how he protected a host of female folks from a ferocious tiger.This began with women ventured deep into the jungle to collect opium leaves from trees in the jungle.It seem that the opium leaves were as big as a palm and length about a foot.
The old man claimed he was escorting those females as the plucked the opium leaves,while he was enjoying his smoking.The silence of the jungle was broken by the appearance of a tiger,seemingly ferocious.The tiger gave a huge roared,that took the light out of everyone.
The women folks were screaming with fear and crying.At this split seconds the old man stood up and brandishing his gun aiming at the tiger.As the tiger rose and jumped at him he steadily pulled his trigger.
Bang!.That shot hit the ferocious jumping tiger directly in the face.It looked as if stunned,it did not know what hit him.It dropped on that spot and struggled for a few seconds.The old man claimed that at that moment he reloaded his gun and took a second aim at the struggling tiger,but as he was about to give another shot the tiger had stopped its struggling,lying there motionless.
That tiger died without standing up again.So claimed him,with one single shot he killed that tiger.So ended his story.
As the Yap brothers and Fabian were walking away,Francis following behind saying "Wah,that old man very brave,eh?".
"Yeah,a first class liar",said the elder Yap.
"Yeah,huh?Those days where got opium leaves?",replied Fabian.
"Are not opium from poppy flowers,how come his growing on our trees?"continued
Fabian.
"For all I know he never owned a gun,let alone shooting a tiger?",said the younger Yap.
As they walked away towards the plantation only sundry shop.Fabian said,"Let us visit our new girl friend".
All laughed,"Your girl friend,the shopkeeper's daughter?"."Ha,ha,ha,".
Fabian when new sat far away listening to what he had to say.When joined by the Yap brothers,all of them moved nearer to listen to what story he had been telling.Fabian remembered well of a story about shooting of a tiger.
His audiences were mostly small children of those Chinese families residing in that plantation.The Yap brothers with Fabian and brothers gathered round to listen.Those days they all played about topless and bare footed.
Well,the tiger story.This old man always yearned about how he protected a host of female folks from a ferocious tiger.This began with women ventured deep into the jungle to collect opium leaves from trees in the jungle.It seem that the opium leaves were as big as a palm and length about a foot.
The old man claimed he was escorting those females as the plucked the opium leaves,while he was enjoying his smoking.The silence of the jungle was broken by the appearance of a tiger,seemingly ferocious.The tiger gave a huge roared,that took the light out of everyone.
The women folks were screaming with fear and crying.At this split seconds the old man stood up and brandishing his gun aiming at the tiger.As the tiger rose and jumped at him he steadily pulled his trigger.
Bang!.That shot hit the ferocious jumping tiger directly in the face.It looked as if stunned,it did not know what hit him.It dropped on that spot and struggled for a few seconds.The old man claimed that at that moment he reloaded his gun and took a second aim at the struggling tiger,but as he was about to give another shot the tiger had stopped its struggling,lying there motionless.
That tiger died without standing up again.So claimed him,with one single shot he killed that tiger.So ended his story.
As the Yap brothers and Fabian were walking away,Francis following behind saying "Wah,that old man very brave,eh?".
"Yeah,a first class liar",said the elder Yap.
"Yeah,huh?Those days where got opium leaves?",replied Fabian.
"Are not opium from poppy flowers,how come his growing on our trees?"continued
Fabian.
"For all I know he never owned a gun,let alone shooting a tiger?",said the younger Yap.
As they walked away towards the plantation only sundry shop.Fabian said,"Let us visit our new girl friend".
All laughed,"Your girl friend,the shopkeeper's daughter?"."Ha,ha,ha,".
Chapter 1 Life in the Rubber Plantation
The Yap brothers were a big family,both parents plus seven siblings (three boys and four girls).Yap senior was an estate Contractor.Apparently was offered a piece of land to built a bungalow of his own there.The remaining land were fully planted up with green oranges and other orchards.
Fabian and Francis immediately became very chummy with them,especially the two younger brothers who were similar in ages.Together they made a great team and the whole plantation became their paradise.
They not only built bunds to block up irrigation drains catching the fishes therein,they went about slashing"haruan" (snake head)with a parang.Those shallow water of the drains had many big fish,and the fish hid among the grasses in the water.The clear water gave them away easily but slashing them was never easy as it seem to be.
What seem to be a direct hit could end up missing the fish by inches.Why?Fabian and the Yap brothers were aware of it.When cutting straight into the water the blade can be deflected thus missing the fish.
The other friends they had were the sons of Indian rubber tappers.Fabian being out going had many Indian friends.The population of Chinese tappers were about thirty per cent.So Fabian and the Yap brothers had a good time going through the linesite in the evening.
Initially the plantation was managed by a European Manager,later it was over by the Chinese.Thereafter the plantation was managed by a Chinese "Kapala" or head man.The plantation was fully planted with rubber and absolutely flat.Thus was the environment of that plantation.
Fabian and Francis immediately became very chummy with them,especially the two younger brothers who were similar in ages.Together they made a great team and the whole plantation became their paradise.
They not only built bunds to block up irrigation drains catching the fishes therein,they went about slashing"haruan" (snake head)with a parang.Those shallow water of the drains had many big fish,and the fish hid among the grasses in the water.The clear water gave them away easily but slashing them was never easy as it seem to be.
What seem to be a direct hit could end up missing the fish by inches.Why?Fabian and the Yap brothers were aware of it.When cutting straight into the water the blade can be deflected thus missing the fish.
The other friends they had were the sons of Indian rubber tappers.Fabian being out going had many Indian friends.The population of Chinese tappers were about thirty per cent.So Fabian and the Yap brothers had a good time going through the linesite in the evening.
Initially the plantation was managed by a European Manager,later it was over by the Chinese.Thereafter the plantation was managed by a Chinese "Kapala" or head man.The plantation was fully planted with rubber and absolutely flat.Thus was the environment of that plantation.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Chapter 30 Shifting away from Anson Road.
Fabian at twelve the family fortune were at its lowest and the house and land were about to be sold.Many would be buyers viewed the house and land but did not offer any good price.
The final days Fabian went often to his uncle's house in the Government quarters also at Anson Road.Dolly by then had shifted away,so there was no chance at all to extent Fabian's acquaintances with her.
Fabian's uncle lived a Malay family,their eldest son was a year or so older than Fabian.They got along fine and played together when his father was at work.His name was Ahmad K,why Fabian do not know nor did he know his real name.He just simply like to call himself Ahmad K.
Once Ahmad K fabricated a set of high jump posts and Fabian used to practice with him.Those practices improved Fabian's height of clearance at school later on.For his short statue it was an achievement to have cleared 4'6" at school sports.
Months later their house was sold for a miserable sum of fourteen thousand five hundred.There was nothing can be done for that was the highest bidder.Today that property was worth a hundred folds.
So they have to move out so were the other tenants.Their father started a small business along Immigrant Road.There was an office and a small room so they shifted in to that room.Fabian and Francis had to sleep in the office at night.
With that shifting of house Fabian and Francis life style changed completely,completely new set of friends.Bruce slowly went out of their picture though the friendship remained but distant.Accept for Joe never had closer acquaintance with all the rest of the old friends.
At this stage the new set of friends were from poorer community and they rough and tough.Many of them run all over town just to earn a dollar or two.Many of them attended the Sam Min Chinese school.
Fabian and Francis continued their education at Anglo Chinese School.There they both have to walked to school.Fabian got a longer distant to cover as the secondary school was slightly far off.So was their sister she had to walked to school,too.
At this new place thus began The Adventure of Fabian.
The final days Fabian went often to his uncle's house in the Government quarters also at Anson Road.Dolly by then had shifted away,so there was no chance at all to extent Fabian's acquaintances with her.
Fabian's uncle lived a Malay family,their eldest son was a year or so older than Fabian.They got along fine and played together when his father was at work.His name was Ahmad K,why Fabian do not know nor did he know his real name.He just simply like to call himself Ahmad K.
Once Ahmad K fabricated a set of high jump posts and Fabian used to practice with him.Those practices improved Fabian's height of clearance at school later on.For his short statue it was an achievement to have cleared 4'6" at school sports.
Months later their house was sold for a miserable sum of fourteen thousand five hundred.There was nothing can be done for that was the highest bidder.Today that property was worth a hundred folds.
So they have to move out so were the other tenants.Their father started a small business along Immigrant Road.There was an office and a small room so they shifted in to that room.Fabian and Francis had to sleep in the office at night.
With that shifting of house Fabian and Francis life style changed completely,completely new set of friends.Bruce slowly went out of their picture though the friendship remained but distant.Accept for Joe never had closer acquaintance with all the rest of the old friends.
At this stage the new set of friends were from poorer community and they rough and tough.Many of them run all over town just to earn a dollar or two.Many of them attended the Sam Min Chinese school.
Fabian and Francis continued their education at Anglo Chinese School.There they both have to walked to school.Fabian got a longer distant to cover as the secondary school was slightly far off.So was their sister she had to walked to school,too.
At this new place thus began The Adventure of Fabian.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Chapter 29 Collecting Rubber Seeds
During the months of February,March or April were wintering months,rubber trees shed all their leaves be replaced with newer ones.New flowers will also bloomed.Coming with it will be the dropping of rubber seeds.Those were the days if one walked bare footed in rubber estates can be hurt by the shell of the seeds.
As small boys Fabian,Joe and little brother Francis will go rubber seeds hunting in small holdings.Those days rubber seeds were from huge seedling trees so the seeds produced varied from tree to tree.That path the way to enjoy playing with them because they were of different sizes,different thickness of seeds and of different seed coats.
Whereas now a days the rubber seeds were from the same budded clone,should the whole field were of the same clone and therefore the seeds were all similar.Similar in size,shape,same thickness of shell,and same color and coatings.The strength of the seeds were also similar,so no fun playing with them,many a time the shell thickness were very thin and fragile.
In the days when the rubber trees were seedlings,Fabian and gang used to collect them for competitions.What competition?Very simple just crushing each others seeds to see whose were more superior in not breaking up.
Fabian and company will venture to nearby rubber holdings.One such day at small holding as they searching for rubber seeds,their friend Tim came out of his house demanding all to stop collecting near his house."Hoy! all of you,do not collect my rubber seeds",said Tim.
"Rubbish","It is not your tree",shouted Joe.
"Yeah",all agreed."It is beside my house so it is mine",said Tim.
"Return what you have collected to me",requested Tim.
"No,we would not",said Francis.
"Hold it,Tim,we are all friends,what is so big about these rubber seeds?",said Joe.
'But",said Tim,"this tree produced the strongest rubber seeds".
"Aha! that is the reason you do not want us to collect its seeds.You alone wanted to be champion all the time.".
"Now that we know your secret,we will come everyday to search for them",said Fabian.
"Come on we all are very good friends,why allow some rubber seeds make us quarrel?",said Joe.
"Yeah",all agreed.You do your collection and we do ours.that way I think very fair,for you are living here and can collect all the time",said Joe.
"Whenever we come back and if we find any,that will be our luck,right?",said Fabian.
"Okay,lah,for all of us are great friends",replied Tim.
As small boys Fabian,Joe and little brother Francis will go rubber seeds hunting in small holdings.Those days rubber seeds were from huge seedling trees so the seeds produced varied from tree to tree.That path the way to enjoy playing with them because they were of different sizes,different thickness of seeds and of different seed coats.
Whereas now a days the rubber seeds were from the same budded clone,should the whole field were of the same clone and therefore the seeds were all similar.Similar in size,shape,same thickness of shell,and same color and coatings.The strength of the seeds were also similar,so no fun playing with them,many a time the shell thickness were very thin and fragile.
In the days when the rubber trees were seedlings,Fabian and gang used to collect them for competitions.What competition?Very simple just crushing each others seeds to see whose were more superior in not breaking up.
Fabian and company will venture to nearby rubber holdings.One such day at small holding as they searching for rubber seeds,their friend Tim came out of his house demanding all to stop collecting near his house."Hoy! all of you,do not collect my rubber seeds",said Tim.
"Rubbish","It is not your tree",shouted Joe.
"Yeah",all agreed."It is beside my house so it is mine",said Tim.
"Return what you have collected to me",requested Tim.
"No,we would not",said Francis.
"Hold it,Tim,we are all friends,what is so big about these rubber seeds?",said Joe.
'But",said Tim,"this tree produced the strongest rubber seeds".
"Aha! that is the reason you do not want us to collect its seeds.You alone wanted to be champion all the time.".
"Now that we know your secret,we will come everyday to search for them",said Fabian.
"Come on we all are very good friends,why allow some rubber seeds make us quarrel?",said Joe.
"Yeah",all agreed.You do your collection and we do ours.that way I think very fair,for you are living here and can collect all the time",said Joe.
"Whenever we come back and if we find any,that will be our luck,right?",said Fabian.
"Okay,lah,for all of us are great friends",replied Tim.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Chapter 28 Spinning Tops
Spinning tops?Apa itu?,or what is that "spinning tops',I bet kids to day do not know what top was?.Of late I have seen a version of top spinning make by China for kids.Very good idea indeed.The child had just to whip (with a tiny whip) the top lightly to make it spine more and more.As its spinning colored lights rotated along with the top.
The East coast (Kelantan and Trengannu),Giant top spinning were no child's game with each weighing no less than approximately 5 kgs.It called for brute strength and certain amount of skill to handle the.
These gasing ( Top) had to be hurled expertly and can spin for a minimium of two hours in a stretch.Smaller ones can performed a number tricks.
For Fabian,in his days,the top they spine were slightly different.Most tops whose size were never larger than their fist.Attached at the end was a very sharp nail.The top was spine with a short length of string (About a meter long).Come to think of them playing them was quite dangerous.
Many a times bystanders were harmed by wild flying tops.Having a knock by these tops can be painful but there were other fatalities.There were reports of small children were hurt by the nails of these tops.
In Fabian childhood days tops were spine very aggressively,for players will attacked each other tops trying to break them or they played as a team.Once Fabian partnered Joe and another friend Tim.Tim's top was put in the center of drawn circle.Fabian and Joe therefore were designated to rescue it.
The opposing team were Fatty Hock,Big Buffalo,and Jackie.Fatty Hock shouted"Attack it,break that up".
"Do not allow them to save it",yelled another (B.Buffalo).
As they saying Joe had spine his top,digging a small hole in Tim's top.But unfortunately Tim's top moved near the edges of the circle.Fatty Hock's top was also spine but it failed to spine.Thus it was no play and have to be placed in the center as well together with Tim's.
Fabian struck and it pinned directly on to Fatty Hock's top,cutting it into two halves."Well done ",cried Joe and Tim.
"You cheated",claimed Fatty Hock.
"No,no,I break you fair and square".Fatty Hock got another space top and continued to play.At that moment Jackie spine his top and it knocked Tim's top out of the circle but his top did not spine,therefore forfeited and have to put in the center.
"Now we have three and you are only two,now you die,we will attack you",yelled Tim out for revenge.Big buffalo said" No worry,I can change all that".He spined his top with all his brute strength but it missed time and hit hard on the ground without spinning.
With two in the center Fatty Hock could not do much though he tried to save either one of his friends.His spinning struck Jackie's top but could not knock it out of the circle.His top continued spinning in the center.With that he left a very good target for Joe,Fabian and Tim.
"Time for revenge",yelled Tim as he spine his top and he was on target.He struck Fatty Hock's top breaking a big junk of that top and being lop sided spine out of play.Though it was out of the circle he still can not play because the top cannot spine anymore,poor thing.
Tim on the other hand,the victor,his top was still spinning within the circle,spinning until it finally stopped and rowed out of circle.With opposing team disposed Joe,Fabian and Tim were the victors.
Fabian and company can demonstrate many tricks with their tops and were experts at them.Such as lifting the spinning top on to their palms and passing on to each other.They can also spine their tops directly on to their palms.So somehow these tops were classified as dangerous not only the players but also by standers.Spectators had been hurt by such tops.
That was why later this was banned by the parents for they would not allow their children to play them.Thus ended the reign of these tops.
The East coast (Kelantan and Trengannu),Giant top spinning were no child's game with each weighing no less than approximately 5 kgs.It called for brute strength and certain amount of skill to handle the.
These gasing ( Top) had to be hurled expertly and can spin for a minimium of two hours in a stretch.Smaller ones can performed a number tricks.
For Fabian,in his days,the top they spine were slightly different.Most tops whose size were never larger than their fist.Attached at the end was a very sharp nail.The top was spine with a short length of string (About a meter long).Come to think of them playing them was quite dangerous.
Many a times bystanders were harmed by wild flying tops.Having a knock by these tops can be painful but there were other fatalities.There were reports of small children were hurt by the nails of these tops.
In Fabian childhood days tops were spine very aggressively,for players will attacked each other tops trying to break them or they played as a team.Once Fabian partnered Joe and another friend Tim.Tim's top was put in the center of drawn circle.Fabian and Joe therefore were designated to rescue it.
The opposing team were Fatty Hock,Big Buffalo,and Jackie.Fatty Hock shouted"Attack it,break that up".
"Do not allow them to save it",yelled another (B.Buffalo).
As they saying Joe had spine his top,digging a small hole in Tim's top.But unfortunately Tim's top moved near the edges of the circle.Fatty Hock's top was also spine but it failed to spine.Thus it was no play and have to be placed in the center as well together with Tim's.
Fabian struck and it pinned directly on to Fatty Hock's top,cutting it into two halves."Well done ",cried Joe and Tim.
"You cheated",claimed Fatty Hock.
"No,no,I break you fair and square".Fatty Hock got another space top and continued to play.At that moment Jackie spine his top and it knocked Tim's top out of the circle but his top did not spine,therefore forfeited and have to put in the center.
"Now we have three and you are only two,now you die,we will attack you",yelled Tim out for revenge.Big buffalo said" No worry,I can change all that".He spined his top with all his brute strength but it missed time and hit hard on the ground without spinning.
With two in the center Fatty Hock could not do much though he tried to save either one of his friends.His spinning struck Jackie's top but could not knock it out of the circle.His top continued spinning in the center.With that he left a very good target for Joe,Fabian and Tim.
"Time for revenge",yelled Tim as he spine his top and he was on target.He struck Fatty Hock's top breaking a big junk of that top and being lop sided spine out of play.Though it was out of the circle he still can not play because the top cannot spine anymore,poor thing.
Tim on the other hand,the victor,his top was still spinning within the circle,spinning until it finally stopped and rowed out of circle.With opposing team disposed Joe,Fabian and Tim were the victors.
Fabian and company can demonstrate many tricks with their tops and were experts at them.Such as lifting the spinning top on to their palms and passing on to each other.They can also spine their tops directly on to their palms.So somehow these tops were classified as dangerous not only the players but also by standers.Spectators had been hurt by such tops.
That was why later this was banned by the parents for they would not allow their children to play them.Thus ended the reign of these tops.
Chapter 27 Marbles
Playing marbles were one of Fabian's activities in the days of old.Initially he had to play with cement marbles which were big,slightly more than half an inch in diameter.When Fabian had a lot of them filling both pockets,it sagged down wards dragging his pants down,thus exposing everything below the waist.
Teacher seeing that yelled at Fabian,"Why are your pants down?".All in the class laughed and applauded loudly.How embarrassing.Fortunately it was a boy school but only the teacher was a woman."You come here".
Pulling his pants up and clinking to awkwardly to it, Fabian went in front of the class."Unload all your marbles onto this tin",giving him a tin.
Fabian quietly put all his marbles into that tin provided.After he had done that he was penalized and made to stand at the corner of the class.Poor Fabian was punished until recess time.When school was over the teacher refused to hand over all the marbles to Fabian.
However,that teacher told,"You must come with a container tomorrow to collect back those marbles,failing which you will not have them back.Dutifully Fabian came with a container for those marbles and he got back all his marbles.
Later glass marbles were introduced they were half the size of cemented marbles.obviously very much lighter to carry in pockets.Now Fabian had no problems and Fabian always had pocket full of them.Many of which won from classmates.
Likewise due to his carelessness many a times the marbles were littered around the floor.The teacher said,Why?You again Fabian dropping marbles every where disturbing the class.So the teacher said,"Bring all you marbles here and keep all on my table".
"As a reminder to you,all these marbles will be confiscated,and I will not you have them back",said the teacher."Yes teacher",replied Fabian as he returned to his seat.
Later a small type of glass marbles were introduced.This smaller marbles like the bigger ones were tinted with colors within making them very beautiful.With it introduction playing with marbles also slowly faded away.
Nowadays these marbles adorned the bottom of aquarium.Children today do not play with marbles any more,they were attracted to computer games and computerized gadgets.
Teacher seeing that yelled at Fabian,"Why are your pants down?".All in the class laughed and applauded loudly.How embarrassing.Fortunately it was a boy school but only the teacher was a woman."You come here".
Pulling his pants up and clinking to awkwardly to it, Fabian went in front of the class."Unload all your marbles onto this tin",giving him a tin.
Fabian quietly put all his marbles into that tin provided.After he had done that he was penalized and made to stand at the corner of the class.Poor Fabian was punished until recess time.When school was over the teacher refused to hand over all the marbles to Fabian.
However,that teacher told,"You must come with a container tomorrow to collect back those marbles,failing which you will not have them back.Dutifully Fabian came with a container for those marbles and he got back all his marbles.
Later glass marbles were introduced they were half the size of cemented marbles.obviously very much lighter to carry in pockets.Now Fabian had no problems and Fabian always had pocket full of them.Many of which won from classmates.
Likewise due to his carelessness many a times the marbles were littered around the floor.The teacher said,Why?You again Fabian dropping marbles every where disturbing the class.So the teacher said,"Bring all you marbles here and keep all on my table".
"As a reminder to you,all these marbles will be confiscated,and I will not you have them back",said the teacher."Yes teacher",replied Fabian as he returned to his seat.
Later a small type of glass marbles were introduced.This smaller marbles like the bigger ones were tinted with colors within making them very beautiful.With it introduction playing with marbles also slowly faded away.
Nowadays these marbles adorned the bottom of aquarium.Children today do not play with marbles any more,they were attracted to computer games and computerized gadgets.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Chapter 26 Catching Spiders
Spiders fighting can be quite entertaining.In the 50's Fabian and his friends had to catch them as their plaything.Most probably those spider were of the jumping type and there were 500 species of them of the Salticdae family. All the jumping spiders survived on small insects like flies and other preys.They built their nest among leaves.
Of course there were many types of spiders but the type Fabian caught for fighting was a tiny spider which can be captured and bred in small match box.These spiders had dark bodies and the male fighting spider had white face,black eyes and mouth pieces.They have huge claws to fight.The female spider cannot fight with their short claws and their face were dark,and they got a big back side.
So only the males will be captured for the contest.Joe,Fabian's friend often ganged up to catch these spiders.Apparently those captured in their gardens were weaklings and one day Joe suggested they go hunting for better spiders at a different location.He suggested the river side.
Francis overheard and insisted in following them.
"Aiya,you small boy cannot follow us",said Fabian."Who said I am small,if I cannot go you can not go,too",replied Francis.
Joe seeing that said,"Allow him to follow but he must follow us closely and do not make noise".Francis thus agreed and they for the nearest river side,near Durian Sabatang.
They near a quite secluded spot near the Government's Medical Practitioner's bungalow.The Doctor living there was an Englishman.He had two huge dogs.Joe and Fabian kept their silence as they neared that bungalow,but their were to catch spiders after the river bund.
The shrubs below the bund could harbor a host of big spiders,thought Joe as they adhere closely below to the bunds which was outside the compound of the bungalow.The dogs in the bungalow were howling and barking a loud,fortunately they were not released and the Doctor apparently at work at the General hospital.
After going through the shrubs for a while Fabian noticed a spider among two leaves,it was a big spider.A happy Fabian shouted to Joe,Look I have a Champion here and I am going to catch it.As he was about to grab the two leaves where the spider was Francis pulled him hard from behind.
"What the hell,you think you are doing?"yelled Fabian.
"Look a snake",Francis replied,and Fabian took a hard look.Sure enough there was a green viper among the branches of a shrub nearby."Anyway,thanks Francis,but that is not a snake"."It is a viper,you stupid",said Fabian.
"Huh? not knowing that was a viper,not stupid,you dump,dump"."If you were bitten by that then who will be stupid".
"Yeah,lah you saved me,okay?Thank you okay?"Fabian having said that, located a long piece of stick by breaking down one of the taller shrubs.
With that he lifted up that green viper and wanted to fling it into the river but it slipped and felt short on to the compound of the bungalow.Fabian rushed and struck the viper in the middle.That paralysed the viper but the viper was still moving.
Joe came and said,"Fabian you must crushed its head,you know snake or viper have photogenic eyes.Even when dying it can record who killed it and should the mate come looking and viewed its eyes it will know who killed it.So you must crushed its head and eyes."
"Luckily you were not bitten by it,otherwise its venom will be injected into your body can caused degeneration of tissue and blood cells, causing also intense pain and swelling."
"I think the viper was waiting for the spider to come out from hiding,had you grabbed those leaves it would have bitten you and that could be fatal".
"Yeah I had my dear little brother to thank,right?".Having said that,Fabian took hold of another stick to crush that viper's head.
On crushing its head Fabian used the long stick to shove the viper into the fast flowing river and the viper floated away.Fabian then said,"Now its mate would not find it anymore".
Having done that Fabian returned to the spot to check whether the spider was still there.Fortunately it was and Fabian caught with both hands.It was a big spider indeed.Happily Fabian put the spider into his match box.All continued catching spiders and catch a few extra thereafter.
All other spiders caught did not matched Fabian's spider.Now he went round challenging others and his spider emerged Champion for few days.After few days the spider appealed sickly and Fabian let it go among his mother's flower plant.However the next day that spider some how had disappeared.Fabian hunt everywhere for it but could not find it.
That spider could have been devoured by a lizard.Anyway Fabian's spider was Champion for only a short period.Through he tried very hard to find another champion,he failed miserably.
Of course there were many types of spiders but the type Fabian caught for fighting was a tiny spider which can be captured and bred in small match box.These spiders had dark bodies and the male fighting spider had white face,black eyes and mouth pieces.They have huge claws to fight.The female spider cannot fight with their short claws and their face were dark,and they got a big back side.
So only the males will be captured for the contest.Joe,Fabian's friend often ganged up to catch these spiders.Apparently those captured in their gardens were weaklings and one day Joe suggested they go hunting for better spiders at a different location.He suggested the river side.
Francis overheard and insisted in following them.
"Aiya,you small boy cannot follow us",said Fabian."Who said I am small,if I cannot go you can not go,too",replied Francis.
Joe seeing that said,"Allow him to follow but he must follow us closely and do not make noise".Francis thus agreed and they for the nearest river side,near Durian Sabatang.
They near a quite secluded spot near the Government's Medical Practitioner's bungalow.The Doctor living there was an Englishman.He had two huge dogs.Joe and Fabian kept their silence as they neared that bungalow,but their were to catch spiders after the river bund.
The shrubs below the bund could harbor a host of big spiders,thought Joe as they adhere closely below to the bunds which was outside the compound of the bungalow.The dogs in the bungalow were howling and barking a loud,fortunately they were not released and the Doctor apparently at work at the General hospital.
After going through the shrubs for a while Fabian noticed a spider among two leaves,it was a big spider.A happy Fabian shouted to Joe,Look I have a Champion here and I am going to catch it.As he was about to grab the two leaves where the spider was Francis pulled him hard from behind.
"What the hell,you think you are doing?"yelled Fabian.
"Look a snake",Francis replied,and Fabian took a hard look.Sure enough there was a green viper among the branches of a shrub nearby."Anyway,thanks Francis,but that is not a snake"."It is a viper,you stupid",said Fabian.
"Huh? not knowing that was a viper,not stupid,you dump,dump"."If you were bitten by that then who will be stupid".
"Yeah,lah you saved me,okay?Thank you okay?"Fabian having said that, located a long piece of stick by breaking down one of the taller shrubs.
With that he lifted up that green viper and wanted to fling it into the river but it slipped and felt short on to the compound of the bungalow.Fabian rushed and struck the viper in the middle.That paralysed the viper but the viper was still moving.
Joe came and said,"Fabian you must crushed its head,you know snake or viper have photogenic eyes.Even when dying it can record who killed it and should the mate come looking and viewed its eyes it will know who killed it.So you must crushed its head and eyes."
"Luckily you were not bitten by it,otherwise its venom will be injected into your body can caused degeneration of tissue and blood cells, causing also intense pain and swelling."
"I think the viper was waiting for the spider to come out from hiding,had you grabbed those leaves it would have bitten you and that could be fatal".
"Yeah I had my dear little brother to thank,right?".Having said that,Fabian took hold of another stick to crush that viper's head.
On crushing its head Fabian used the long stick to shove the viper into the fast flowing river and the viper floated away.Fabian then said,"Now its mate would not find it anymore".
Having done that Fabian returned to the spot to check whether the spider was still there.Fortunately it was and Fabian caught with both hands.It was a big spider indeed.Happily Fabian put the spider into his match box.All continued catching spiders and catch a few extra thereafter.
All other spiders caught did not matched Fabian's spider.Now he went round challenging others and his spider emerged Champion for few days.After few days the spider appealed sickly and Fabian let it go among his mother's flower plant.However the next day that spider some how had disappeared.Fabian hunt everywhere for it but could not find it.
That spider could have been devoured by a lizard.Anyway Fabian's spider was Champion for only a short period.Through he tried very hard to find another champion,he failed miserably.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Chapter 25 Catching Fighting fish
Someone gave Bruce a fighting fish and he was showing it to Fabian and brother.He kept it at the ground floor of his house where it was dark.Apparently that was to induce the fish to bring its best colors in the dark.
It was a beautiful dark fish slightly more an inch and half in length with blue shining spots on its body.You put a finger to it,it will immediately react as if ready to fight.With gills widely opened up and fully bloomed out and flapping.
"You want one,you can always go and catch them yourself", Bruce told Fabian.Now how to catch them.Fabian returned home pondering over it.Just then Joe came by his house taking a short back to his house.
"Hi,Fabian,what is on your mind?Thinking so deeply">asked Joe.
"I was thinking of how to catch fighting fish",replied Fabian.
"No big deal,we can go together to catch them",said Joe.
"Then we go tomorrow during the week end school holidays."Alright,we go tomorrow".
"I also want to go"said Francis who was nearby.
"Cannot,you cannot go".Fabian said.
"If I can go,you also cannot go and I will tell mother about it",cried Francis.
"Never mind Fabian let him come along to hold our bottles"said Joe.
"Then okay,you can come along but do not make a big fuss about it",shouted Fabian.
Next early morning the three of them met after breakfast,there was no transport and so they have to walk all the way.First they reached a swampy area around Changkat jong Road.Actually they do not have any equipments to catch the fighting fish except a round vegetable basket and three bottles.
As they reached the edges of the swamp,Joe said,"Let us try this place".
"Let me try first",said Fabian as he took the basket to scope the edges of the swamp but did no catch anything after a couple of trails.
"Look at your legs ",cried Francis,"something sticking on your legs".
"Arrrr leeches on your legs,Fabian.
Fabian quickly got up to dry land,hurriedly he tried to pulled away those leeches.It was difficult to to pull them away but nevertheless he was successful in pulling one and fling it away into the water.However there was still another on his leg and he tried to pull it away,but that leech refused to bulge .After a few trails he managed to pull away that leech but by then the leech had succeeded in sucking some blood.The resultant tiny wound was bleeding as he removed that leech.
Though it was painless the bleeding continued,Fabian applied pressure to it but still it did not stopped.Seeing this he allowed it be.Joe then said,"Let us find another place to catch the fighting fish,this place is no good,got plenty of leeches.Francis too agreed and they left.
They walked farther on towards the rubber estates.They surveyed around to see whether it was safe to catch fighting fish there."Aiya.don't waste time,lah",cried Francis,"we walked so long and not caught a fish yet".
"So clever,you try first",said Fabian,giving the basket to Francis.
"I try,okay,no problem",receiving the basket Francis went into a drain and scope its side.
Sure enough his first trial was a lucky try for he scoped up a fighting fish,shouting"I have got one,I have got one".Displaying his proud self he put the fish into his bottle claiming,"This is mine,mine,understand,Fabian?".
Next Joe took over the basket and after some scoping he caught two fighting fish."Luckily here got no leeches,otherwise they would have attacked me"Fabian next took over the basket to catch and caught another two.Then they rested and discussed about their catch.
"Now I think I know how to catch good fighting fish,it was no use scoping every where,just looked for small amount of foam or bubbles by the side of drain edges if you see them scope that up.Under it surely got big and beautiful fighting fish.
"You talk very clever,catch one and show me",said Francis."Yeah,catch one to show him,Fabian",said Joe.
"Alright I show you",grape the basket ,he went over to another drain.Sure enough he saw some foams on the water and he scoped up that spot.Well,he caught another beautiful big fighting fish. Then Francis said,"let me try to varify if you were right".".
Taking the basket he went into that drain after he scoped up something big,he shouted,"Look.look,I have caught a giant fighting fish".Joe and Fabian rushed over.
As Joe saw the fish he exclaimed,"That is not a fighting fish,it an "huruan" (snake head fish),stupid".
"Hey catching a big fish is not stupid,you dump,dump",cried Francis.As they were hungry they barbecued that fish and shared it among themselves.It was a lucky day indeed.They not only had a few fighting fish they also had a nice lunch.
After lunch they divided their catch,and each got two fighting fishes each.Fabian hide those two fishes in two bottles under his bed.To prevent them seeing each other he placed a paper in between the two bottles.Francis also put his fishes under his bed.
"Don't you steal my fishes,Fabian"warned Francis.
"Ha,ha,I have the best,why should I steal yours?",claimed Fabian.
"I can identify my fishes I warn you,if you changed them I will know",warned Francis.
"I am watching my fishes as I sleep so do not come near".
Fabian then told his brother to sleep and do not talk about those fishes.
It was a beautiful dark fish slightly more an inch and half in length with blue shining spots on its body.You put a finger to it,it will immediately react as if ready to fight.With gills widely opened up and fully bloomed out and flapping.
"You want one,you can always go and catch them yourself", Bruce told Fabian.Now how to catch them.Fabian returned home pondering over it.Just then Joe came by his house taking a short back to his house.
"Hi,Fabian,what is on your mind?Thinking so deeply">asked Joe.
"I was thinking of how to catch fighting fish",replied Fabian.
"No big deal,we can go together to catch them",said Joe.
"Then we go tomorrow during the week end school holidays."Alright,we go tomorrow".
"I also want to go"said Francis who was nearby.
"Cannot,you cannot go".Fabian said.
"If I can go,you also cannot go and I will tell mother about it",cried Francis.
"Never mind Fabian let him come along to hold our bottles"said Joe.
"Then okay,you can come along but do not make a big fuss about it",shouted Fabian.
Next early morning the three of them met after breakfast,there was no transport and so they have to walk all the way.First they reached a swampy area around Changkat jong Road.Actually they do not have any equipments to catch the fighting fish except a round vegetable basket and three bottles.
As they reached the edges of the swamp,Joe said,"Let us try this place".
"Let me try first",said Fabian as he took the basket to scope the edges of the swamp but did no catch anything after a couple of trails.
"Look at your legs ",cried Francis,"something sticking on your legs".
"Arrrr leeches on your legs,Fabian.
Fabian quickly got up to dry land,hurriedly he tried to pulled away those leeches.It was difficult to to pull them away but nevertheless he was successful in pulling one and fling it away into the water.However there was still another on his leg and he tried to pull it away,but that leech refused to bulge .After a few trails he managed to pull away that leech but by then the leech had succeeded in sucking some blood.The resultant tiny wound was bleeding as he removed that leech.
Though it was painless the bleeding continued,Fabian applied pressure to it but still it did not stopped.Seeing this he allowed it be.Joe then said,"Let us find another place to catch the fighting fish,this place is no good,got plenty of leeches.Francis too agreed and they left.
They walked farther on towards the rubber estates.They surveyed around to see whether it was safe to catch fighting fish there."Aiya.don't waste time,lah",cried Francis,"we walked so long and not caught a fish yet".
"So clever,you try first",said Fabian,giving the basket to Francis.
"I try,okay,no problem",receiving the basket Francis went into a drain and scope its side.
Sure enough his first trial was a lucky try for he scoped up a fighting fish,shouting"I have got one,I have got one".Displaying his proud self he put the fish into his bottle claiming,"This is mine,mine,understand,Fabian?".
Next Joe took over the basket and after some scoping he caught two fighting fish."Luckily here got no leeches,otherwise they would have attacked me"Fabian next took over the basket to catch and caught another two.Then they rested and discussed about their catch.
"Now I think I know how to catch good fighting fish,it was no use scoping every where,just looked for small amount of foam or bubbles by the side of drain edges if you see them scope that up.Under it surely got big and beautiful fighting fish.
"You talk very clever,catch one and show me",said Francis."Yeah,catch one to show him,Fabian",said Joe.
"Alright I show you",grape the basket ,he went over to another drain.Sure enough he saw some foams on the water and he scoped up that spot.Well,he caught another beautiful big fighting fish. Then Francis said,"let me try to varify if you were right".".
Taking the basket he went into that drain after he scoped up something big,he shouted,"Look.look,I have caught a giant fighting fish".Joe and Fabian rushed over.
As Joe saw the fish he exclaimed,"That is not a fighting fish,it an "huruan" (snake head fish),stupid".
"Hey catching a big fish is not stupid,you dump,dump",cried Francis.As they were hungry they barbecued that fish and shared it among themselves.It was a lucky day indeed.They not only had a few fighting fish they also had a nice lunch.
After lunch they divided their catch,and each got two fighting fishes each.Fabian hide those two fishes in two bottles under his bed.To prevent them seeing each other he placed a paper in between the two bottles.Francis also put his fishes under his bed.
"Don't you steal my fishes,Fabian"warned Francis.
"Ha,ha,I have the best,why should I steal yours?",claimed Fabian.
"I can identify my fishes I warn you,if you changed them I will know",warned Francis.
"I am watching my fishes as I sleep so do not come near".
Fabian then told his brother to sleep and do not talk about those fishes.
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