(From a German original Manuscript in Sir G. Grey’s Library, H. C.
Knudsen’s “Notes on the Hottentots,” p. 7.)
Heitsi Eibip, or Kabip, was a great and celebrated sorcerer among the
Namaqua. He could tell secret things, and prophesy what was to happen
afterwards.
Once he was travelling with a great number of people, and an enemy
pursued them. On arriving at some water he said, “My grandfather’s
father, open thyself that I may pass through, and close thyself
afterwards.” So it took place as he had said, and they went safely
through. Then their enemies tried to pass through the opening also, but
when they were in the midst of it, it closed again upon them, and they
perished. [22]
Heitsi Kabip died several times, and came to life again. When the
Hottentots pass one of his graves they throw a stone on it for good
luck. [23]
Heitsi Eibip could take many different forms. Sometimes he appeared
handsome, very handsome, or his hair grew long down to his shoulders;
at other times it was again short.