Geri (#10676),
"Who hath been our saviour - let us know his name ...."
(sang the birds)
"It is Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, with the eyes of flame !" (Kipling)
So Arthat enters the lists against your snakes. The only animal who can beat a King Cobra to the draw. They make very affectionate pets (I'm told), and their value in places like India and Aden is obvious. I'm told they all have red eyes (did Arthat ?)
Never knew there was a profession of itinerant Mongoose Snake Killer, but it makes sense. How was he paid (per visit or "on piecework" - so much per snake killed ?) do you know ?
Would Lithard been in any danger ? 'Fraid so. According to Wiki: "...Mongooses mostly feed on insects, crabs, earthworms, lizards, birds, and rodents..." You would've done well to keep him out of Arthat's way - I don't think he'd have listened to you ! They specialise in cobras. As Kipling writes:
"Ha, the hooded death has missed. Woe to thee, Nag !"
Pity your Mother greeted him so inhospitably - she might've hurt his feelings !
Danny.