The chameleon, rustling over the dead leaves, had attracted his attention.
As quick as lightning his whole body appeared upon the tree, and lay flat along the bark, head downwards.

Here he halted for a moment; then, raising his shoulders, he ran nimbly down the trunk, and rushing outwards, sprang upon the chameleon.

The latter, thus suddenly attacked, dropped the spider; and at first showed an intention of retreating.

Had he done so the scorpion would have followed him no farther--as its only object in attacking him was to rob him of his prey.
The chameleon, however, is a courageous little animal; and seeing that his assailant was not much bigger than himself--for the animal in question was one of the smallest of the skink family--he turned again and showed fight.

His throat swelled to its largest extent, and grew brighter than ever.
Both now stood facing each other, and about twelve inches apart, in threatening attitudes.