He was to start on his journey.

If he saw the Evil One coming he was to drop a bit of the branch and water would immediately spring up.

The Evil One could not cross water, and thus, being delayed by going around, would give the Indian time to escape.
The Indian made his way well along to where Tallac Hotel now is, when, looking back, he saw the Evil One off in the distance approaching with such strides that his heart was filled with great fear.

In his terror he tried to pluck a leaf but it snapped off and he dropped almost his whole branch.
To his delight and relief the waters began to rise and soon "Tahoe"-- _Big Water_--lay between him and his enemy.
Free-heartedly he hurried on his way up the canyon, but when he reached the spot where the head of Fallen Leaf Lake lies, he turned to reassure himself.

Away off the Evil One was advancing.