ollections as
having little to do with actual riddles--those questions which are
generally insoluble and such tests of wisdom as appeal not to wit
and understanding, but to knowledge--which are certainly not true
riddles. Thus, in the group here characterized as 'false' different
classes of things are brought together, the characteristics of which
I shall investigate later." It would be interesting to quote the
author's discussion further. We can, however, only state that he
recognizes three classes of "false riddles," to which he gives the
names "wisdom tests," "life-ransoming riddles," and "catch-questions."

Of "true riddles" there is a vast variety of form and content. Most
typical is the descriptive riddle of a single object to be guessed. In
its complete and normal form Petsch claims that such a riddle
consists of five elements or parts. 1 Introduction; 2 denominative;
3 descriptive; 4 restraint or contrast; 5 conclusion. 1 and 5 are
merely formal, trimmings; 2 and 3 are inherent and essential; 4
is common and adds vigor and interest. Such complete and "normal"
riddles are rare in any language. Usually one or more of the five
elements are lacking. It is only by such an analysis of riddle forms
that a comparative study of riddles can be made. Any single riddle is
best understood, by the constant holding before the mind this pattern
framework and noting the degree of development of the case in hand.

The Filipinos themselves recognize several classes of riddles. An
old Tagal lady told us there were three kinds:

1. _Alo-divino_: concerning God and divine things
2. _Alo-humano_: concerning persons
3. _Parabula_: all others

There is no science in this classification, which embodies considerable
corrupted Spanish. Another informant recognizes six classes:

1. _Alo-divino_
2. _Historia-vino:_ history of God and saints
3. _Alo-humano_
4. _Historia-mano_: history of persons.
5. _Karle-mano_: God and saints and persons together.
6. _Parabula_ or _biniyabas_.

These names call for little comment and the classification they
embody is of the loosest. The word _parabula_ is Spanish in source
and equivalent to our parable; _biniyabas_ is Tagal.

Some features of our riddles call for comment. Filipino riddles, in
whatever language, are likely to be in poetical form. The commonest
type is in two well-balanced, rhyming lines. Filipino versification is
less exacting in its