This is a modern-English version of Aesop's Fables; a new translation, originally written by Aesop.
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AESOP'S FABLES
A NEW TRANSLATION
BY
V. S. VERNON JONES
WITH AN INTRODUCTION
BY
G. K. CHESTERTON
AND ILLUSTRATIONS
BY
ARTHUR RACKHAM
1912 EDITION
INTRODUCTION
Aesop embodies an epigram not uncommon in human history; his fame is all the more deserved because he never deserved it. The firm foundations of common sense, the shrewd shots at uncommon sense, that characterise all the Fables, belong not him but to humanity. In the earliest human history whatever is authentic is universal: and whatever is universal is anonymous. In such cases there is always some central man who had first the trouble of collecting them, and afterwards the fame of creating them. He had the fame; and, on the whole, he earned the fame. There must have been something great and human, something of the human future and the human past, in such a man: even if he only used it to rob the past or deceive the future. The story of Arthur may have been really connected with the most fighting Christianity of falling Rome or with the most heathen traditions hidden in the hills of Wales. But the word "Mappe" or "Malory" will always mean King Arthur; even though we find older and better origins than the Mabinogian; or write later and worse versions than the "Idylls of the King." The nursery fairy tales may have come out of Asia with the Indo-European race, now fortunately extinct; they may have been invented by some fine French lady or gentleman like Perrault: they may possibly even be what they profess to be. But we shall always call the best selection of such tales "Grimm's Tales": simply because it is the best collection.
Aesop represents a saying that's pretty common throughout human history; his recognition is even more deserved because he didn't actually deserve it. The solid foundation of common sense and the clever critiques of uncommon sense that define all the Fables belong not to him but to humanity as a whole. In the early days of human history, what's authentic is universal, and what's universal is anonymous. In these cases, there’s always someone central who first gathered these stories and later gained the credit for creating them. He had the acclaim, and overall, he earned it. There must have been something great and human, something connecting to the human future and the human past, in that person, even if he only used it to take from the past or mislead the future. The tale of Arthur might actually have been tied to the most militant Christianity of collapsing Rome or with the most pagan traditions hidden in the hills of Wales. But the name "Mappe" or "Malory" will always be linked to King Arthur; even if we find older and better sources than the Mabinogian or write later and less impressive versions than the "Idylls of the King." Nursery fairy tales may have come from Asia with the Indo-European race, which is thankfully extinct now; they may have been created by some talented French man or woman like Perrault; they might even genuinely be what they claim to be. But we will always refer to the best selection of those tales as "Grimm's Tales": simply because it’s the finest collection.
The historical Aesop, in so far as he was historical, would seem to have been a Phrygian slave, or at least one not to be specially and symbolically adorned with the Phrygian cap of liberty. He lived, if he did live, about the sixth century before Christ, in the time of that Croesus whose story we love and suspect like everything else in Herodotus. There are also stories of deformity of feature and a ready ribaldry of tongue: stories which (as the celebrated Cardinal said) explain, though they do not excuse, his having been hurled over a high precipice at Delphi. It is for those who read the Fables to judge whether he was really thrown over the cliff for being ugly and offensive, or rather for being highly moral and correct. But there is no kind of doubt that the general legend of him may justly rank him with a race too easily forgotten in our modern comparisons: the race of the great philosophic slaves. Aesop may have been a fiction like Uncle Remus: he was also, like Uncle Remus, a fact. It is a fact that slaves in the old world could be worshipped like Aesop, or loved like Uncle Remus. It is odd to note that both the great slaves told their best stories about beasts and birds.
The historical Aesop, if he was indeed historical, seems to have been a Phrygian slave, or at least not someone who was particularly symbolically represented by the Phrygian cap of freedom. He lived, if he actually existed, around the sixth century BCE, during the time of Croesus, whose tale we find captivating yet dubious, much like everything else in Herodotus. There are also tales of physical deformities and a sharp wit: stories which (as the famous Cardinal said) explain, though they do not justify, why he was supposedly thrown over a high cliff at Delphi. It's up to those who read the Fables to decide whether he was really thrown off the cliff for being unattractive and irritating, or instead for being highly moral and principled. However, there is no doubt that the general legend of him justly aligns him with a group that is often overlooked in our modern comparisons: the group of great philosophical slaves. Aesop may have been a fictional character like Uncle Remus: he was also, like Uncle Remus, a real figure. It is a fact that, in the ancient world, slaves could be revered like Aesop or cherished like Uncle Remus. It's interesting to note that both of these remarkable slaves shared their best stories about animals.
But whatever be fairly due to Aesop, the human tradition called Fables is not due to him. This had gone on long before any sarcastic freedman from Phrygia had or had not been flung off a precipice; this has remained long after. It is to our advantage, indeed, to realise the distinction; because it makes Aesop more obviously effective than any other fabulist. Grimm's Tales, glorious as they are, were collected by two German students. And if we find it hard to be certain of a German student, at least we know more about him than We know about a Phrygian slave. The truth is, of course, that Aesop's Fables are not Aesop's fables, any more than Grimm's Fairy Tales were ever Grimm's fairy tales. But the fable and the fairy tale are things utterly distinct. There are many elements of difference; but the plainest is plain enough. There can be no good fable with human beings in it. There can be no good fairy tale without them.
But whatever is fairly owed to Aesop, the tradition known as Fables doesn’t come from him. This tradition existed long before any sarcastic freedman from Phrygia was thrown off a cliff, and it continued long after. It's actually beneficial for us to recognize this distinction because it makes Aesop more obviously impactful than any other storyteller. Grimm's Tales, wonderful as they are, were compiled by two German students. And while it might be hard to know exactly what a German student is like, at least we know more about them than we do about a Phrygian slave. The truth is, Aesop's Fables aren’t actually Aesop's fables, just like Grimm's Fairy Tales were never truly Grimm's fairy tales. But the fable and the fairy tale are completely different things. There are many elements that set them apart, but the most straightforward one is clear enough. A good fable cannot have human characters in it. A good fairy tale cannot exist without them.
Aesop, or Babrius (or whatever his name was), understood that, for a fable, all the persons must be impersonal. They must be like abstractions in algebra, or like pieces in chess. The lion must always be stronger than the wolf, just as four is always double of two. The fox in a fable must move crooked, as the knight in chess must move crooked. The sheep in a fable must march on, as the pawn in chess must march on. The fable must not allow for the crooked captures of the pawn; it must not allow for what Balzac called "the revolt of a sheep" The fairy tale, on the other hand, absolutely revolves on the pivot of human personality. If no hero were there to fight the dragons, we should not even know that they were dragons. If no adventurer were cast on the undiscovered island—it would remain undiscovered. If the miller's third son does not find the enchanted garden where the seven princesses stand white and frozen—why, then, they will remain white and frozen and enchanted. If there is no personal prince to find the Sleeping Beauty she will simply sleep. Fables repose upon quite the opposite idea; that everything is itself, and will in any case speak for itself. The wolf will be always wolfish; the fox will be always foxy. Something of the same sort may have been meant by the animal worship, in which Egyptian and Indian and many other great peoples have combined. Men do not, I think, love beetles or cats or crocodiles with a wholly personal love; they salute them as expressions of that abstract and anonymous energy in nature which to any one is awful, and to an atheist must be frightful. So in all the fables that are or are not Aesop's all the animal forces drive like inanimate forces, like great rivers or growing trees. It is the limit and the loss of all such things that they cannot be anything but themselves: it is their tragedy that they could not lose their souls.
Aesop, or Babrius (or whatever his name was), understood that for a fable, all the characters need to be impersonal. They must function like abstractions in algebra or pieces in chess. The lion always has to be stronger than the wolf, just like four is always double two. The fox in a fable must be sly, just as the knight in chess moves in an L shape. The sheep in a fable must keep moving forward, like the pawn in chess. The fable can’t allow for the pawn's sneaky captures; it can’t allow for what Balzac called "the revolt of a sheep." The fairy tale, on the other hand, completely revolves around human personality. If there’s no hero to fight the dragons, we wouldn’t even know they were dragons. If no adventurer lands on the undiscovered island, it stays undiscovered. If the miller's third son doesn’t find the enchanted garden where the seven princesses are frozen, then they will remain white, frozen, and enchanted. If there's no personal prince to rescue Sleeping Beauty, she will just keep sleeping. Fables rest on the opposite idea: that everything is itself and will speak for itself in any case. The wolf will always be wolfish; the fox will always be crafty. Something similar might have been meant by the animal worship seen in ancient Egyptian, Indian, and various other great cultures. People don’t, I think, love beetles, cats, or crocodiles with a purely personal affection; they recognize them as representations of that abstract and anonymous energy in nature, which is awe-inspiring and, for an atheist, must be terrifying. So, in all the fables that may or may not be Aesop's, all the animal forces operate like inanimate forces, like great rivers or growing trees. The limitation and the tragedy of all these things is that they can only ever be themselves; their tragedy is that they cannot lose their essence.
This is the immortal justification of the Fable: that we could not teach the plainest truths so simply without turning men into chessmen. We cannot talk of such simple things without using animals that do not talk at all. Suppose, for a moment, that you turn the wolf into a wolfish baron, or the fox into a foxy diplomatist. You will at once remember that even barons are human, you will be unable to forget that even diplomatists are men. You will always be looking for that accidental good-humour that should go with the brutality of any brutal man; for that allowance for all delicate things, including virtue, that should exist in any good diplomatist. Once put a thing on two legs instead of four and pluck it of feathers and you cannot help asking for a human being, either heroic, as in the fairy tales, or un-heroic, as in the modern novels.
This is the timeless reason behind the Fable: that we can't teach even the simplest truths without reducing people to mere pieces on a chessboard. We can't discuss such straightforward concepts without using animals that don't speak at all. Imagine, just for a moment, turning the wolf into a ruthless baron or the fox into a sly diplomat. You'll immediately remember that barons are human, and you won't be able to forget that diplomats are people too. You'll always be searching for that unexpected kindness that should accompany the brutality of any harsh man, and for that appreciation of all sensitive aspects, including virtue, that should be present in any good diplomat. Once you give something two legs instead of four and strip it of its feathers, you can't help but ask for a human being, either heroic like in fairy tales, or un-heroic like in modern novels.
But by using animals in this austere and arbitrary style as they are used on the shields of heraldry or the hieroglyphics of the ancients, men have really succeeded in handing down those tremendous truths that are called truisms. If the chivalric lion be red and rampant, it is rigidly red and rampant; if the sacred ibis stands anywhere on one leg, it stands on one leg for ever. In this language, like a large animal alphabet, are written some of the first philosophic certainties of men. As the child learns A for Ass or B for Bull or C for Cow, so man has learnt here to connect the simpler and stronger creatures with the simpler and stronger truths. That a flowing stream cannot befoul its own fountain, and that any one who says it does is a tyrant and a liar; that a mouse is too weak to fight a lion, but too strong for the cords that can hold a lion; that a fox who gets most out of a flat dish may easily get least out of a deep dish; that the crow whom the gods forbid to sing, the gods nevertheless provide with cheese; that when the goat insults from a mountain-top it is not the goat that insults, but the mountain: all these are deep truths deeply graven on the rocks wherever men have passed. It matters nothing how old they are, or how new; they are the alphabet of humanity, which like so many forms of primitive picture-writing employs any living symbol in preference to man. These ancient and universal tales are all of animals; as the latest discoveries in the oldest pre-historic caverns are all of animals. Man, in his simpler states, always felt that he himself was something too mysterious to be drawn. But the legend he carved under these cruder symbols was everywhere the same; and whether fables began with Aesop or began with Adam, whether they were German and mediAeval as Reynard the Fox, or as French and Renaissance as La Fontaine, the upshot is everywhere essentially the same: that superiority is always insolent, because it is always accidental; that pride goes before a fall; and that there is such a thing as being too clever by half. You will not find any other legend but this written upon the rocks by any hand of man. There is every type and time of fable: but there is only one moral to the fable; because there is only one moral to everything.
But by using animals in this strict and random way, similar to how they appear on heraldic shields or in ancient hieroglyphs, people have successfully passed down those powerful truths known as truisms. If the chivalric lion is red and rampant, it is consistently red and rampant; if the sacred ibis stands on one leg, it stays on one leg forever. In this language, like a large animal alphabet, some of the earliest philosophical certainties of humanity are expressed. Just as a child learns A for Ass or B for Bull or C for Cow, humans have learned to link simple, strong creatures with simple, strong truths. That a flowing stream cannot pollute its own source, and that anyone who claims otherwise is a tyrant and a liar; that a mouse is too weak to fight a lion, but too strong for the ropes that could bind a lion; that a fox who gets the most from a flat dish may end up getting the least from a deep dish; that the crow whom the gods forbid from singing is still provided with cheese; that when the goat insults from a mountaintop, it’s not the goat that insults, but the mountain: all these are profound truths deeply etched into the rocks wherever humans have existed. It doesn’t matter how old they are or how new; they are the alphabet of humanity, which, like many forms of primitive picture-writing, favors any living symbol over humans. These ancient and universal tales are all about animals; as the latest findings in the oldest prehistoric caves are all about animals. In simpler times, humans always felt they were too mysterious to be depicted. But the stories they carved under these crude symbols were essentially the same everywhere; whether fables started with Aesop or Adam, whether they were German and medieval like Reynard the Fox, or French and Renaissance like La Fontaine, the basic message is always essentially the same: that superiority is always arrogant because it is always accidental; that pride comes before a fall; and that there is such a thing as being too smart for your own good. You won’t find any other legend written on the rocks by any human hand. There are countless types and times of fables, but there is only one moral to the fable, because there is only one moral to everything.
G. K. CHESTERTON
G.K. Chesterton
CONTENTS
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
IN COLOUR
IN BLACK AND WHITE
AESOP'S FABLES
THE FOX AND THE GRAPES
A hungry Fox saw some fine bunches of Grapes hanging from a vine that was trained along a high trellis, and did his best to reach them by jumping as high as he could into the air. But it was all in vain, for they were just out of reach: so he gave up trying, and walked away with an air of dignity and unconcern, remarking, "I thought those Grapes were ripe, but I see now they are quite sour."
A hungry fox spotted some nice bunches of grapes hanging from a vine that was trained along a high trellis, and he tried his best to reach them by jumping as high as he could. But it was all for nothing because they were just out of reach, so he gave up and walked away with an air of dignity and indifference, saying, "I thought those grapes were ripe, but now I see they are pretty sour."
THE GOOSE THAT LAID THE GOLDEN EGGS
A Man and his Wife had the good fortune to possess a Goose which laid a Golden Egg every day. Lucky though they were, they soon began to think they were not getting rich fast enough, and, imagining the bird must be made of gold inside, they decided to kill it in order to secure the whole store of precious metal at once. But when they cut it open they found it was just like any other goose. Thus, they neither got rich all at once, as they had hoped, nor enjoyed any longer the daily addition to their wealth.
A man and his wife were fortunate to own a goose that laid a golden egg every day. Even though they were lucky, they soon thought they weren't getting rich fast enough. Believing the bird must be made of gold inside, they decided to kill it to get all the treasure at once. But when they opened it up, they found it was just like any other goose. So, they ended up neither getting rich immediately, as they had hoped, nor enjoying the daily boost to their wealth anymore.
Much wants more and loses all.
Much desires more and ends up losing everything.
THE CAT AND THE MICE
There was once a house that was overrun with Mice. A Cat heard of this, and said to herself, "That's the place for me," and off she went and took up her quarters in the house, and caught the Mice one by one and ate them. At last the Mice could stand it no longer, and they determined to take to their holes and stay there. "That's awkward," said the Cat to herself: "the only thing to do is to coax them out by a trick." So she considered a while, and then climbed up the wall and let herself hang down by her hind legs from a peg, and pretended to be dead. By and by a Mouse peeped out and saw the Cat hanging there. "Aha!" it cried, "you're very clever, madam, no doubt: but you may turn yourself into a bag of meal hanging there, if you like, yet you won't catch us coming anywhere near you."
There was once a house that was swarming with mice. A cat heard about this and thought to herself, "That's the place for me," so she went in, settled down, and started catching the mice one by one and eating them. Eventually, the mice couldn't take it anymore and decided to hide in their holes and stay there. "That's inconvenient," the cat thought to herself, "the only way to get them out is to trick them." After thinking for a while, she climbed up the wall and hung upside down by her back legs from a peg, pretending to be dead. After some time, a mouse peeked out and saw the cat hanging there. "Aha!" it exclaimed, "you're very clever, ma'am, no doubt: but you could turn yourself into a bag of flour hanging there if you wanted, and we still won't come anywhere near you."
If you are wise you won't be deceived by the innocent airs of those whom you have once found to be dangerous.
If you're smart, you won’t be fooled by the innocent behavior of people you’ve previously discovered to be dangerous.
THE MISCHIEVOUS DOG
There was once a Dog who used to snap at people and bite them without any provocation, and who was a great nuisance to every one who came to his master's house. So his master fastened a bell round his neck to warn people of his presence. The Dog was very proud of the bell, and strutted about tinkling it with immense satisfaction. But an old dog came up to him and said, "The fewer airs you give yourself the better, my friend. You don't think, do you, that your bell was given you as a reward of merit? On the contrary, it is a badge of disgrace."
There was once a dog who used to snap at people and bite them for no reason, making him a huge annoyance to everyone who visited his owner's house. So, his owner put a bell around his neck to warn people of his presence. The dog was really proud of the bell and strutted around, ringing it with great satisfaction. But an older dog approached him and said, "The less you show off, the better, my friend. You don’t really think that your bell was given to you as a reward, do you? On the contrary, it’s a sign of shame."
Notoriety is often mistaken for fame.
Notoriety is often confused with fame.
THE CHARCOAL-BURNER AND THE FULLER
There was once a Charcoal-burner who lived and worked by himself. A Fuller, however, happened to come and settle in the same neighbourhood; and the Charcoal-burner, having made his acquaintance and finding he was an agreeable sort of fellow, asked him if he would come and share his house: "We shall get to know one another better that way," he said, "and, beside, our household expenses will be diminished." The Fuller thanked him, but replied, "I couldn't think of it, sir: why, everything I take such pains to whiten would be blackened in no time by your charcoal."
There once was a charcoal burner who lived and worked alone. One day, a fuller moved into the area, and the charcoal burner, having met him and finding him to be a likable guy, asked if he would come and share his home. "We’ll get to know each other better that way," he said, "and besides, we can save on expenses." The fuller appreciated the offer but replied, "I couldn't possibly do that, my friend. Everything I work so hard to whiten would be blackened in no time by your charcoal."
THE MICE IN COUNCIL
Once upon a time all the Mice met together in Council, and discussed the best means of securing themselves against the attacks of the cat. After several suggestions had been debated, a Mouse of some standing and experience got up and said, "I think I have hit upon a plan which will ensure our safety in the future, provided you approve and carry it out. It is that we should fasten a bell round the neck of our enemy the cat, which will by its tinkling warn us of her approach." This proposal was warmly applauded, and it had been already decided to adopt it, when an old Mouse got upon his feet and said, "I agree with you all that the plan before us is an admirable one: but may I ask who is going to bell the cat?"
Once upon a time, all the mice gathered for a meeting and talked about the best way to protect themselves from the cat's attacks. After discussing several ideas, a seasoned mouse stood up and said, "I think I've come up with a plan that will ensure our safety in the future, as long as you all agree to carry it out. We should put a bell around the neck of our enemy, the cat, which will alert us with its ringing when she's coming." Everyone cheered for this suggestion, and it was almost decided to do it when an old mouse stood up and said, "I agree that this plan is great, but can I ask who is going to put the bell on the cat?"
THE BAT AND THE WEASELS
A Bat fell to the ground and was caught by a Weasel, and was just going to be killed and eaten when it begged to be let go. The Weasel said he couldn't do that because he was an enemy of all birds on principle. "Oh, but," said the Bat, "I'm not a bird at all: I'm a mouse." "So you are," said the Weasel, "now I come to look at you"; and he let it go. Some time after this the Bat was caught in just the same way by another Weasel, and, as before, begged for its life. "No," said the Weasel, "I never let a mouse go by any chance." "But I'm not a mouse," said the Bat; "I'm a bird." "Why, so you are," said the Weasel; and he too let the Bat go.
A bat fell to the ground and was caught by a weasel, just about to be killed and eaten when it begged to be released. The weasel said he couldn't do that because he was fundamentally against all birds. “Oh, but,” said the bat, “I’m not a bird at all; I’m a mouse.” “Well, you do look like a mouse,” said the weasel, “now that I think about it,” and he let it go. Later, the bat was caught in the same way by another weasel, and again begged for its life. “No,” said the weasel, “I never let a mouse go, no matter what.” “But I’m not a mouse,” said the bat; “I’m a bird.” “Oh, right you are,” said the weasel, and he let the bat go too.
Look and see which way the wind blows before you commit yourself.
Check which way the wind is blowing before you make any commitments.
THE DOG AND THE SOW
A Dog and a Sow were arguing and each claimed that its own young ones were finer than those of any other animal. "Well," said the Sow at last, "mine can see, at any rate, when they come into the world: but yours are born blind."
A Dog and a Sow were arguing, each claiming that their own offspring were better than anyone else's. "Well," the Sow finally said, "at least mine can see when they're born, but yours come into the world blind."
THE FOX AND THE CROW
A Crow was sitting on a branch of a tree with a piece of cheese in her beak when a Fox observed her and set his wits to work to discover some way of getting the cheese. Coming and standing under the tree he looked up and said, "What a noble bird I see above me! Her beauty is without equal, the hue of her plumage exquisite. If only her voice is as sweet as her looks are fair, she ought without doubt to be Queen of the Birds." The Crow was hugely flattered by this, and just to show the Fox that she could sing she gave a loud caw. Down came the cheese, of course, and the Fox, snatching it up, said, "You have a voice, madam, I see: what you want is wits."
A Crow was perched on a tree branch with a piece of cheese in her beak when a Fox saw her and started to think of a way to get the cheese. He came and stood under the tree, looked up, and said, "What a magnificent bird I see above me! Her beauty is unmatched; the color of her feathers is stunning. If her voice is as lovely as her appearance, she surely should be the Queen of the Birds." The Crow was very flattered by this, and to show the Fox that she could sing, she let out a loud caw. Naturally, the cheese fell down, and the Fox grabbed it and said, "You have a voice, madam, I see: what you need is wits."
THE HORSE AND THE GROOM
There was once a Groom who used to spend long hours clipping and combing the Horse of which he had charge, but who daily stole a portion of his allowance of oats, and sold it for his own profit. The Horse gradually got into worse and worse condition, and at last cried to the Groom, "If you really want me to look sleek and well, you must comb me less and feed me more."
There was once a Groom who spent long hours grooming and brushing the Horse he was responsible for, but every day he stole some of the oats he was supposed to feed the Horse and sold them for his own gain. The Horse gradually became worse and worse, and finally said to the Groom, "If you really want me to look healthy and well-groomed, you need to comb me less and feed me more."
THE WOLF AND THE LAMB
A Wolf came upon a Lamb straying from the flock, and felt some compunction about taking the life of so helpless a creature without some plausible excuse; so he cast about for a grievance and said at last, "Last year, sirrah, you grossly insulted me." "That is impossible, sir," bleated the Lamb, "for I wasn't born then." "Well," retorted the Wolf, "you feed in my pastures." "That cannot be," replied the Lamb, "for I have never yet tasted grass." "You drink from my spring, then," continued the Wolf. "Indeed, sir," said the poor Lamb, "I have never yet drunk anything but my mother's milk." "Well, anyhow," said the Wolf, "I'm not going without my dinner": and he sprang upon the Lamb and devoured it without more ado.
A Wolf came across a Lamb wandering away from the flock and felt a bit guilty about killing such a defenseless creature without a good reason. So, he looked for a reason to blame the Lamb and finally said, "Last year, you really insulted me." "That's impossible," bleated the Lamb, "because I wasn't even born then." "Well," replied the Wolf, "you graze in my pastures." "That can't be true," said the Lamb, "because I've never eaten grass." "You drink from my spring, then," the Wolf continued. "Actually," the poor Lamb said, "I’ve only ever drank my mother's milk." "Well, either way," said the Wolf, "I’m not leaving without my meal": and he pounced on the Lamb and ate it without any hesitation.
THE PEACOCK AND THE CRANE
A Peacock taunted a Crane with the dullness of her plumage. "Look at my brilliant colours," said she, "and see how much finer they are than your poor feathers." "I am not denying," replied the Crane, "that yours are far gayer than mine; but when it comes to flying I can soar into the clouds, whereas you are confined to the earth like any dunghill cock."
A Peacock mocked a Crane for her plain feathers. "Look at my vibrant colors," she said, "and see how much better they are than your drab feathers." "I won’t argue," replied the Crane, "that yours are much more colorful than mine; but when it comes to flying, I can soar high into the clouds, while you're stuck on the ground like any backyard rooster."
THE CAT AND THE BIRDS
A Cat heard that the Birds in an aviary were ailing. So he got himself up as a doctor, and, taking with him a set of the instruments proper to his profession, presented himself at the door, and inquired after the health of the Birds. "We shall do very well," they replied, without letting him in, "when we've seen the last of you."
A Cat heard that the Birds in an aviary were sick. So he dressed up like a doctor, grabbed a set of the tools he needed, and showed up at the door, asking how the Birds were doing. "We'll be just fine," they replied, refusing to let him in, "once you're gone for good."
A villain may disguise himself, but he will not deceive the wise.
A villain can put on a disguise, but he won't fool the wise.
THE SPENDTHRIFT AND THE SWALLOW
A Spendthrift, who had wasted his fortune, and had nothing left but the clothes in which he stood, saw a Swallow one fine day in early spring. Thinking that summer had come, and that he could now do without his coat, he went and sold it for what it would fetch. A change, however, took place in the weather, and there came a sharp frost which killed the unfortunate Swallow. When the Spendthrift saw its dead body he cried, "Miserable bird! Thanks to you I am perishing of cold myself."
A Spendthrift, who had blown all his money and had nothing left but the clothes on his back, spotted a Swallow one beautiful spring day. Believing that summer had arrived and he no longer needed his coat, he sold it for whatever he could get. However, the weather changed, and a sudden frost came that ended up killing the poor Swallow. When the Spendthrift saw its lifeless body, he exclaimed, "Unfortunate bird! Because of you, I’m freezing to death myself."
One swallow does not make summer.
One swallow doesn’t make a summer.
THE OLD WOMAN AND THE DOCTOR
An Old Woman became almost totally blind from a disease of the eyes, and, after consulting a Doctor, made an agreement with him in the presence of witnesses that she should pay him a high fee if he cured her, while if he failed he was to receive nothing. The Doctor accordingly prescribed a course of treatment, and every time he paid her a visit he took away with him some article out of the house, until at last, when he visited her for the last time, and the cure was complete, there was nothing left. When the Old Woman saw that the house was empty she refused to pay him his fee; and, after repeated refusals on her part, he sued her before the magistrates for payment of her debt. On being brought into court she was ready with her defence. "The claimant," said she, "has stated the facts about our agreement correctly. I undertook to pay him a fee if he cured me, and he, on his part, promised to charge nothing if he failed. Now, he says I am cured; but I say that I am blinder than ever, and I can prove what I say. When my eyes were bad I could at any rate see well enough to be aware that my house contained a certain amount of furniture and other things; but now, when according to him I am cured, I am entirely unable to see anything there at all."
An old woman became almost completely blind due to an eye disease and, after consulting a doctor, made an agreement with him in front of witnesses that she would pay him a large fee if he cured her, but if he failed, he would receive nothing. The doctor then prescribed a treatment plan, and each time he visited her, he took away some item from her house, until finally, when he visited her for the last time and the supposed cure was complete, there was nothing left. When the old woman saw that the house was empty, she refused to pay him his fee; after several refusals on her part, he took her to court to get the money she owed him. When she was brought into the courtroom, she was ready with her defense. "The claimant," she said, "has accurately stated the facts of our agreement. I agreed to pay him a fee if he cured me, and he promised not to charge anything if he failed. Now, he says I’m cured, but I say I'm blinder than ever, and I can prove it. When my eyesight was bad, I could at least see enough to know that my house had some furniture and other things; but now, according to him, I’m cured, and I can’t see anything at all."
THE MOON AND HER MOTHER
The Moon once begged her Mother to make her a gown. "How can I?" replied she; "there's no fitting your figure. At one time you're a New Moon, and at another you're a Full Moon; and between whiles you're neither one nor the other."
The Moon once asked her Mother to make her a dress. "How can I?" her Mother replied. "There's no way to fit your shape. Sometimes you're a New Moon, sometimes you're a Full Moon, and in between, you're neither."
MERCURY AND THE WOODMAN
A Woodman was felling a tree on the bank of a river, when his axe, glancing off the trunk, flew out of his hands and fell into the water. As he stood by the water's edge lamenting his loss, Mercury appeared and asked him the reason for his grief; and on learning what had happened, out of pity for his distress he dived into the river and, bringing up a golden axe, asked him if that was the one he had lost. The Woodman replied that it was not, and Mercury then dived a second time, and, bringing up a silver axe, asked if that was his. "No, that is not mine either," said the Woodman. Once more Mercury dived into the river, and brought up the missing axe. The Woodman was overjoyed at recovering his property, and thanked his benefactor warmly; and the latter was so pleased with his honesty that he made him a present of the other two axes. When the Woodman told the story to his companions, one of these was filled with envy of his good fortune and determined to try his luck for himself. So he went and began to fell a tree at the edge of the river, and presently contrived to let his axe drop into the water. Mercury appeared as before, and, on learning that his axe had fallen in, he dived and brought up a golden axe, as he had done on the previous occasion. Without waiting to be asked whether it was his or not the fellow cried, "That's mine, that's mine," and stretched out his hand eagerly for the prize: but Mercury was so disgusted at his dishonesty that he not only declined to give him the golden axe, but also refused to recover for him the one he had let fall into the stream.
A woodcutter was chopping down a tree by the riverbank when his axe slipped off the trunk, flew out of his hands, and fell into the water. While he stood at the water's edge, mourning his loss, Mercury appeared and asked why he was upset. After learning what had happened, Mercury felt pity for him, dove into the river, and brought up a golden axe, asking if that was the one he had lost. The woodcutter replied that it wasn’t, so Mercury dove a second time and brought up a silver axe, asking if that was his. "No, that's not mine either," said the woodcutter. Once more, Mercury dived into the river and retrieved the lost axe. The woodcutter was thrilled to get his axe back and thanked Mercury sincerely. Pleased with his honesty, Mercury gifted him the other two axes. When the woodcutter shared the story with his friends, one of them felt envious of his good luck and decided to try his own luck. He went to the riverbank and started chopping down a tree, eventually letting his axe drop into the water. Mercury appeared again, and upon hearing that the axe had fallen in, he dove and brought up a golden axe just like before. Without waiting to see if it was his, the man exclaimed, "That's mine, that's mine!" and reached eagerly for it. However, Mercury was so disgusted by his dishonesty that he not only refused to give him the golden axe, but also declined to retrieve the axe he had let fall into the river.
Honesty is the best policy.
Honesty is the best policy.
THE ASS, THE FOX, AND THE LION
An Ass and a Fox went into partnership and sallied out to forage for food together. They hadn't gone far before they saw a Lion coming their way, at which they were both dreadfully frightened. But the Fox thought he saw a way of saving his own skin, and went boldly up to the Lion and whispered in his ear, "I'll manage that you shall get hold of the Ass without the trouble of stalking him, if you'll promise to let me go free." The Lion agreed to this, and the Fox then rejoined his companion and contrived before long to lead him by a hidden pit, which some hunter had dug as a trap for wild animals, and into which he fell. When the Lion saw that the Ass was safely caught and couldn't get away, it was to the Fox that he first turned his attention, and he soon finished him off, and then at his leisure proceeded to feast upon the Ass.
An Ass and a Fox teamed up to search for food together. They hadn’t gone far when they spotted a Lion coming toward them, and they both got really scared. But the Fox thought of a way to save himself and approached the Lion confidently, whispering, “I can help you catch the Ass without the hassle of hunting him down, if you promise to let me go.” The Lion agreed, and the Fox then went back to his companion and cleverly led him to a hidden pit that a hunter had dug as a trap for wild animals, where the Ass fell in. Once the Lion saw that the Ass was trapped and couldn’t escape, he turned his attention to the Fox, quickly dealt with him, and then proceeded to enjoy his meal of the Ass at his leisure.
Betray a friend, and you'll often find you have ruined yourself.
Betray a friend, and you’ll often discover that you’ve messed up your own life.
THE LION AND THE MOUSE
A Lion asleep in his lair was waked up by a Mouse running over his face. Losing his temper he seized it with his paw and was about to kill it. The Mouse, terrified, piteously entreated him to spare its life. "Please let me go," it cried, "and one day I will repay you for your kindness." The idea of so insignificant a creature ever being able to do anything for him amused the Lion so much that he laughed aloud, and good-humouredly let it go. But the Mouse's chance came, after all. One day the Lion got entangled in a net which had been spread for game by some hunters, and the Mouse heard and recognised his roars of anger and ran to the spot. Without more ado it set to work to gnaw the ropes with its teeth, and succeeded before long in setting the Lion free. "There!" said the Mouse, "you laughed at me when I promised I would repay you: but now you see, even a Mouse can help a Lion."
A Lion sleeping in his den was woken up by a Mouse running across his face. Losing his temper, he grabbed it with his paw and was about to kill it. The Mouse, terrified, begged him to spare its life. "Please let me go," it pleaded, "and someday I'll repay your kindness." The idea that such a tiny creature could ever do anything for him made the Lion laugh out loud, and in good spirits, he let it go. But the Mouse's moment came after all. One day, the Lion got caught in a net set by some hunters, and the Mouse heard and recognized his angry roars and rushed to the scene. Without hesitation, it started gnawing at the ropes with its teeth and soon succeeded in freeing the Lion. "See?" said the Mouse, "you laughed at me when I said I would repay you: but now you see, even a Mouse can help a Lion."
THE CROW AND THE PITCHER
A thirsty Crow found a Pitcher with some water in it, but so little was there that, try as she might, she could not reach it with her beak, and it seemed as though she would die of thirst within sight of the remedy. At last she hit upon a clever plan. She began dropping pebbles into the Pitcher, and with each pebble the water rose a little higher until at last it reached the brim, and the knowing bird was enabled to quench her thirst.
A thirsty crow found a pitcher with some water in it, but there was so little that, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't reach it with her beak, and it looked like she would die of thirst right by the solution. Finally, she came up with a smart plan. She started dropping pebbles into the pitcher, and with each pebble, the water rose a bit higher until it finally reached the top, allowing the clever bird to satisfy her thirst.
Necessity is the mother of invention.
Necessity is the mother of invention.
THE BOYS AND THE FROGS
Some mischievous Boys were playing on the edge of a pond, and, catching sight of some Frogs swimming about in the shallow water, they began to amuse themselves by pelting them with stones, and they killed several of them. At last one of the Frogs put his head out of the water and said, "Oh, stop! stop! I beg of you: what is sport to you is death to us."
Some mischievous boys were playing by the edge of a pond, and when they noticed some frogs swimming in the shallow water, they started to entertain themselves by throwing stones at them, killing several. Finally, one of the frogs lifted its head out of the water and said, "Oh, please! Stop! What’s fun for you is death for us."
THE NORTH WIND AND THE SUN
A dispute arose between the North Wind and the Sun, each claiming that he was stronger than the other. At last they agreed to try their powers upon a traveller, to see which could soonest strip him of his cloak. The North Wind had the first try; and, gathering up all his force for the attack, he came whirling furiously down upon the man, and caught up his cloak as though he would wrest it from him by one single effort: but the harder he blew, the more closely the man wrapped it round himself. Then came the turn of the Sun. At first he beamed gently upon the traveller, who soon unclasped his cloak and walked on with it hanging loosely about his shoulders: then he shone forth in his full strength, and the man, before he had gone many steps, was glad to throw his cloak right off and complete his journey more lightly clad.
A disagreement broke out between the North Wind and the Sun, each claiming to be stronger than the other. Eventually, they decided to test their powers on a traveler to see who could get him to take off his cloak first. The North Wind went first; gathering all his might, he rushed furiously at the man and tried to yank the cloak away in one powerful blow. But the harder he blew, the more tightly the man wrapped the cloak around himself. Then it was the Sun's turn. At first, he shone gently on the traveler, who soon unfastened his cloak and walked with it draped loosely over his shoulders. Then the Sun beamed down in full force, and before the man had taken many steps, he gladly tossed off his cloak and continued his journey feeling much lighter.
Persuasion is better than force
Persuasion beats force
THE MISTRESS AND HER SERVANTS
A Widow, thrifty and industrious, had two servants, whom she kept pretty hard at work. They were not allowed to lie long abed in the mornings, but the old lady had them up and doing as soon as the cock crew. They disliked intensely having to get up at such an hour, especially in winter-time: and they thought that if it were not for the cock waking up their Mistress so horribly early, they could sleep longer. So they caught it and wrung its neck. But they weren't prepared for the consequences. For what happened was that their Mistress, not hearing the cock crow as usual, waked them up earlier than ever, and set them to work in the middle of the night.
A widow, frugal and hardworking, had two servants who she kept very busy. They weren’t allowed to sleep in late in the mornings, as the old lady made sure they were up and at it as soon as the rooster crowed. They absolutely hated having to get up at that hour, especially in winter, and they thought that if it weren’t for the rooster waking their mistress up so early, they could sleep in longer. So they caught the rooster and killed it. But they weren’t ready for the consequences. What happened was that, not hearing the rooster crow as usual, their mistress woke them up even earlier than before and had them working in the middle of the night.
THE GOODS AND THE ILLS
There was a time in the youth of the world when Goods and Ills entered equally into the concerns of men, so that the Goods did not prevail to make them altogether blessed, nor the Ills to make them wholly miserable. But owing to the foolishness of mankind the Ills multiplied greatly in number and increased in strength, until it seemed as though they would deprive the Goods of all share in human affairs, and banish them from the earth. The latter, therefore, betook themselves to heaven and complained to Jupiter of the treatment they had received, at the same time praying him to grant them protection from the Ills, and to advise them concerning the manner of their intercourse with men. Jupiter granted their request for protection, and decreed that for the future they should not go among men openly in a body, and so be liable to attack from the hostile Ills, but singly and unobserved, and at infrequent and unexpected intervals. Hence it is that the earth is full of Ills, for they come and go as they please and are never far away; while Goods, alas! come one by one only, and have to travel all the way from heaven, so that they are very seldom seen.
There was a time in the early days of the world when Good and Evil equally affected people, so that the Good didn't make them completely happy, nor did the Evil make them entirely miserable. But due to human foolishness, Evil multiplied greatly and grew stronger, until it seemed like they would take over and drive out the Good from human life entirely. The Good, therefore, went to heaven and complained to Jupiter about how they were treated, asking him to protect them from Evil and to guide them on how to interact with humans. Jupiter granted their request for protection and decided that from then on, they should not appear among people all at once, making them vulnerable to attacks by Evil, but instead come individually and quietly, at rare and unexpected times. That’s why the earth is filled with Evil, as it comes and goes as it pleases and is never far away; while Good, unfortunately, arrives one by one, having to travel all the way from heaven, so they are rarely seen.
THE HARES AND THE FROGS
The Hares once gathered together and lamented the unhappiness of their lot, exposed as they were to dangers on all sides and lacking the strength and the courage to hold their own. Men, dogs, birds and beasts of prey were all their enemies, and killed and devoured them daily: and sooner than endure such persecution any longer, they one and all determined to end their miserable lives. Thus resolved and desperate, they rushed in a body towards a neighbouring pool, intending to drown themselves. On the bank were sitting a number of Frogs, who, when they heard the noise of the Hares as they ran, with one accord leaped into the water and hid themselves in the depths. Then one of the older Hares who was wiser than the rest cried out to his companions, "Stop, my friends, take heart; don't let us destroy ourselves after all: see, here are creatures who are afraid of us, and who must, therefore, be still more timid than ourselves."
The Hares got together and complained about how unhappy they were, feeling threatened from all sides and lacking the strength and courage to defend themselves. Men, dogs, birds, and predators were all their enemies, killing and devouring them daily. Rather than continue suffering from such persecution, they all decided to end their miserable lives. With that resolution and in despair, they hurried to a nearby pool, planning to drown themselves. On the bank, a group of Frogs noticed the noise made by the Hares and immediately leaped into the water, hiding in the depths. Then one of the older Hares, who was wiser than the others, shouted to his friends, "Wait, my friends, cheer up; let’s not destroy ourselves after all: look, here are creatures who are scared of us, which means they must be even more timid than we are."
THE FOX AND THE STORK
A Fox invited a Stork to dinner, at which the only fare provided was a large flat dish of soup. The Fox lapped it up with great relish, but the Stork with her long bill tried in vain to partake of the savoury broth. Her evident distress caused the sly Fox much amusement. But not long after the Stork invited him in turn, and set before him a pitcher with a long and narrow neck, into which she could get her bill with ease. Thus, while she enjoyed her dinner, the Fox sat by hungry and helpless, for it was impossible for him to reach the tempting contents of the vessel.
A Fox invited a Stork over for dinner, but the only food served was a large flat dish of soup. The Fox eagerly drank it all up, while the Stork, with her long beak, struggled to enjoy the tasty broth. The Stork’s clear frustration amused the sly Fox. Soon after, the Stork invited him over for a meal and presented him with a pitcher that had a long and narrow neck, which allowed her to easily get her beak inside. While she happily enjoyed her dinner, the Fox sat nearby, hungry and unable to reach the delicious contents of the pitcher.
THE WOLF IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING
A Wolf resolved to disguise himself in order that he might prey upon a flock of sheep without fear of detection. So he clothed himself in a sheepskin, and slipped among the sheep when they were out at pasture. He completely deceived the shepherd, and when the flock was penned for the night he was shut in with the rest. But that very night as it happened, the shepherd, requiring a supply of mutton for the table, laid hands on the Wolf in mistake for a Sheep, and killed him with his knife on the spot.
A wolf decided to disguise himself so he could hunt a flock of sheep without being caught. He dressed in sheepskin and blended in with the sheep while they were grazing. He completely fooled the shepherd, and when the flock was gathered for the night, he was locked in with them. But that very night, as luck would have it, the shepherd, needing some meat for dinner, grabbed the wolf thinking it was a sheep and killed him right there.
THE STAG IN THE OX-STALL
A Stag, chased from his lair by the hounds, took refuge in a farmyard, and, entering a stable where a number of oxen were stalled, thrust himself under a pile of hay in a vacant stall, where he lay concealed, all but the tips of his horns. Presently one of the Oxen said to him, "What has induced you to come in here? Aren't you aware of the risk you are running of being captured by the herdsmen?" To which he replied, "Pray let me stay for the present. When night comes I shall easily escape under cover of the dark." In the course of the afternoon more than one of the farm-hands came in, to attend to the wants of the cattle, but not one of them noticed the presence of the Stag, who accordingly began to congratulate himself on his escape and to express his gratitude to the Oxen. "We wish you well," said the one who had spoken before, "but you are not out of danger yet. If the master comes, you will certainly be found out, for nothing ever escapes his keen eyes." Presently, sure enough, in he came, and made a great to-do about the way the Oxen were kept. "The beasts are starving," he cried; "here, give them more hay, and put plenty of litter under them." As he spoke, he seized an armful himself from the pile where the Stag lay concealed, and at once detected him. Calling his men, he had him seized at once and killed for the table.
A Stag, chased from his home by hounds, found refuge in a farmyard. He went into a stable where a bunch of oxen were kept and hid under a pile of hay in an empty stall, keeping only the tips of his horns visible. Soon, one of the oxen asked him, "What made you come here? Don't you know you're risking being caught by the herdsmen?" The Stag replied, "Please let me stay for now. When night falls, I can easily escape in the dark." Throughout the afternoon, several farmhands came in to tend to the animals, but none noticed the Stag hiding there. He began to congratulate himself on his escape and thanked the oxen. "We wish you well," said the ox that had spoken before, "but you're not safe yet. If the master comes, he'll definitely find you; nothing escapes his sharp eyes." Sure enough, the master arrived and made a fuss about how the oxen were being cared for. "These animals are starving," he shouted; "bring them more hay and lots of bedding!" As he spoke, he grabbed a bundle of hay from the pile where the Stag was hiding and immediately spotted him. Calling his men, he had the Stag captured and killed for dinner.
THE MILKMAID AND HER PAIL
A farmer's daughter had been out to milk the cows, and was returning to the dairy carrying her pail of milk upon her head. As she walked along, she fell a-musing after this fashion: "The milk in this pail will provide me with cream, which I will make into butter and take to market to sell. With the money I will buy a number of eggs, and these, when hatched, will produce chickens, and by and by I shall have quite a large poultry-yard. Then I shall sell some of my fowls, and with the money which they will bring in I will buy myself a new gown, which I shall wear when I go to the fair; and all the young fellows will admire it, and come and make love to me, but I shall toss my head and have nothing to say to them." Forgetting all about the pail, and suiting the action to the word, she tossed her head. Down went the pail, all the milk was spilled, and all her fine castles in the air vanished in a moment!
A farmer's daughter had gone out to milk the cows and was on her way back to the dairy, balancing her pail of milk on her head. As she walked, she began to daydream: "The milk in this pail will turn into cream, which I’ll make into butter and sell at the market. With that money, I’ll buy quite a few eggs, and when they hatch, I’ll have a bunch of chickens, and soon enough I’ll have a big poultry yard. Then I’ll sell some of my birds, and with that money, I’ll buy myself a new dress to wear to the fair; all the young guys will admire it and come to flirt with me, but I’ll just toss my head and ignore them." Lost in her thoughts and acting out her dream, she tossed her head. The pail fell, all the milk spilled, and just like that, her daydreams disappeared!
Do not count your chickens before they are hatched.
Do not count your chickens before they hatch.
THE DOLPHINS, THE WHALES, AND THE SPRAT
The Dolphins quarrelled with the Whales, and before very long they began fighting with one another. The battle was very fierce, and had lasted some time without any sign of coming to an end, when a Sprat thought that perhaps he could stop it; so he stepped in and tried to persuade them to give up fighting and make friends. But one of the Dolphins said to him contemptuously, "We would rather go on fighting till we're all killed than be reconciled by a Sprat like you!"
The Dolphins argued with the Whales, and soon enough they started fighting each other. The battle was intense and went on for a while without any sign of stopping when a Sprat thought he might be able to put an end to it. He jumped in and tried to convince them to stop fighting and be friends. But one of the Dolphins sneered at him, "We’d rather keep fighting until we’re all dead than be reconciled by a little Sprat like you!"
THE FOX AND THE MONKEY
A Fox and a Monkey were on the road together, and fell into a dispute as to which of the two was the better born. They kept it up for some time, till they came to a place where the road passed through a cemetery full of monuments, when the Monkey stopped and looked about him and gave a great sigh. "Why do you sigh?" said the Fox. The Monkey pointed to the tombs and replied, "All the monuments that you see here were put up in honour of my forefathers, who in their day were eminent men." The Fox was speechless for a moment, but quickly recovering he said, "Oh! don't stop at any lie, sir; you're quite safe: I'm sure none of your ancestors will rise up and expose you."
A Fox and a Monkey were traveling together and got into a debate about who was better born. They argued for a while until they reached a cemetery filled with monuments. The Monkey paused, looked around, and let out a deep sigh. "Why are you sighing?" asked the Fox. The Monkey pointed to the tombstones and said, "All these monuments were erected in honor of my ancestors, who were prominent figures in their time." The Fox was momentarily taken aback, but quickly regained his composure and replied, "Oh! Don't hold back on any lies, my friend; you're totally in the clear: I'm sure none of your ancestors will come back to call you out."
Boasters brag most when they cannot be detected.
Boasters brag the most when they can't be caught.
THE ASS AND THE LAP-DOG
There was once a man who had an Ass and a Lap-dog. The Ass was housed in the stable with plenty of oats and hay to eat and was as well off as an ass could be. The little Dog was made a great pet of by his master, who fondled him and often let him lie in his lap; and if he went out to dinner, he would bring back a tit-bit or two to give him when he ran to meet him on his return. The Ass had, it is true, a good deal of work to do, carting or grinding the corn, or carrying the burdens of the farm: and ere long he became very jealous, contrasting his own life of labour with the ease and idleness of the Lap-dog. At last one day he broke his halter, and frisking into the house just as his master sat down to dinner, he pranced and capered about, mimicking the frolics of the little favourite, upsetting the table and smashing the crockery with his clumsy efforts. Not content with that, he even tried to jump on his master's lap, as he had so often seen the dog allowed to do. At that the servants, seeing the danger their master was in, belaboured the silly Ass with sticks and cudgels, and drove him back to his stable half dead with his beating. "Alas!" he cried, "all this I have brought on myself. Why could I not be satisfied with my natural and honourable position, without wishing to imitate the ridiculous antics of that useless little Lap-dog?"
There was once a man who had a donkey and a lapdog. The donkey lived in the stable with plenty of oats and hay to eat and was as well off as a donkey could be. The little dog was spoiled by his owner, who petted him and often let him lie in his lap; and if he went out to dinner, he would bring back a treat or two to give him when he came home. The donkey had a lot of work to do, hauling loads or grinding grain, or carrying the farm’s burdens: and soon he became very jealous, comparing his life of hard work with the ease and laziness of the lapdog. One day, he broke free from his tether, and bounding into the house just as his owner sat down for dinner, he danced around, mimicking the playful antics of the little favorite, knocking over the table and breaking the dishes with his clumsy moves. Not stopping there, he even tried to jump onto his owner's lap, just like he had seen the dog do so many times. The servants, seeing the danger their master was in, hit the silly donkey with sticks and clubs, forcing him back to his stable half-dead from the beating. "Alas!" he cried, "I've done this to myself. Why couldn't I be happy with my natural and respectable position instead of trying to copy the ridiculous antics of that useless little lapdog?"
THE FIR-TREE AND THE BRAMBLE
A Fir-tree was boasting to a Bramble, and said, somewhat contemptuously, "You poor creature, you are of no use whatever. Now, look at me: I am useful for all sorts of things, particularly when men build houses; they can't do without me then." But the Bramble replied, "Ah, that's all very well: but you wait till they come with axes and saws to cut you down, and then you'll wish you were a Bramble and not a Fir."
A fir tree was bragging to a bramble, saying, somewhat scornfully, "You poor thing, you're completely useless. Just look at me: I'm useful for all kinds of things, especially when people are building houses; they can't do without me." But the bramble replied, "Well, that's nice and all, but just wait until they show up with axes and saws to chop you down, and then you'll wish you were a bramble and not a fir."
Better poverty without a care than wealth with its many obligations.
Better to be poor and carefree than rich with all its responsibilities.
THE FROGS' COMPLAINT AGAINST THE SUN
Once upon a time the Sun was about to take to himself a wife. The Frogs in terror all raised their voices to the skies, and Jupiter, disturbed by the noise, asked them what they were croaking about. They replied, "The Sun is bad enough even while he is single, drying up our marshes with his heat as he does. But what will become of us if he marries and begets other Suns?"
Once upon a time, the Sun was about to take a wife. The Frogs, terrified, all raised their voices to the sky, and Jupiter, disturbed by the noise, asked them what they were croaking about. They replied, "The Sun is bad enough even while he’s single, drying up our marshes with his heat. But what will happen to us if he marries and has more Suns?"
THE DOG, THE COCK, AND THE FOX
A Dog and a Cock became great friends, and agreed to travel together. At nightfall the Cock flew up into the branches of a tree to roost, while the Dog curled himself up inside the trunk, which was hollow. At break of day the Cock woke up and crew, as usual. A Fox heard, and, wishing to make a breakfast of him, came and stood under the tree and begged him to come down. "I should so like," said he, "to make the acquaintance of one who has such a beautiful voice." The Cock replied, "Would you just wake my porter who sleeps at the foot of the tree? He'll open the door and let you in." The Fox accordingly rapped on the trunk, when out rushed the Dog and tore him in pieces.
A Dog and a Rooster became good friends and decided to travel together. When night fell, the Rooster flew up into the branches of a tree to sleep, while the Dog curled up inside a hollow trunk. At dawn, the Rooster woke up and crowed, as usual. A Fox heard the crowing and, wanting to have him for breakfast, came and stood under the tree, asking him to come down. "I would love to meet someone with such a beautiful voice," said the Fox. The Rooster replied, "Could you wake up my bodyguard asleep at the foot of the tree? He'll open the door and let you in." The Fox then knocked on the trunk, and out rushed the Dog and tore him to pieces.
THE GNAT AND THE BULL
A Gnat alighted on one of the horns of a Bull, and remained sitting there for a considerable time. When it had rested sufficiently and was about to fly away, it said to the Bull, "Do you mind if I go now?" The Bull merely raised his eyes and remarked, without interest, "It's all one to me; I didn't notice when you came, and I shan't know when you go away."
A gnat landed on one of the horns of a bull and stayed there for quite a while. After resting enough and getting ready to fly away, it asked the bull, "Do you mind if I leave now?" The bull just looked up and replied, without caring, "I don’t care either way; I didn’t even notice when you arrived, and I won’t know when you leave."
We may often be of more consequence in our own eyes than in the eyes of our neighbours.
We might often think we’re more important than our neighbors see us.
THE BEAR AND THE TRAVELLERS
Two Travellers were on the road together, when a Bear suddenly appeared on the scene. Before he observed them, one made for a tree at the side of the road, and climbed up into the branches and hid there. The other was not so nimble as his companion; and, as he could not escape, he threw himself on the ground and pretended to be dead. The Bear came up and sniffed all round him, but he kept perfectly still and held his breath: for they say that a bear will not touch a dead body. The Bear took him for a corpse, and went away. When the coast was clear, the Traveller in the tree came down, and asked the other what it was the Bear had whispered to him when he put his mouth to his ear. The other replied, "He told me never again to travel with a friend who deserts you at the first sign of danger."
Two travelers were on the road together when a bear suddenly appeared. Before the bear noticed them, one climbed up a tree and hid in the branches. The other wasn't as quick as his friend, so he threw himself on the ground and pretended to be dead. The bear came over and sniffed all around him, but he lay perfectly still and held his breath because they say a bear won’t touch a dead body. The bear took him for a corpse and walked away. Once it was safe, the traveler in the tree came down and asked what the bear had whispered in his ear. The other replied, "He told me to never travel with a friend who abandons you at the first sign of danger."
Misfortune tests the sincerity of friendship.
Misfortune tests how genuine friendship is.
THE SLAVE AND THE LION
A Slave ran away from his master, by whom he had been most cruelly treated, and, in order to avoid capture, betook himself into the desert. As he wandered about in search of food and shelter, he came to a cave, which he entered and found to be unoccupied. Really, however, it was a Lion's den, and almost immediately, to the horror of the wretched fugitive, the Lion himself appeared. The man gave himself up for lost: but, to his utter astonishment, the Lion, instead of springing upon him and devouring him, came and fawned upon him, at the same time whining and lifting up his paw. Observing it to be much swollen and inflamed, he examined it and found a large thorn embedded in the ball of the foot. He accordingly removed it and dressed the wound as well as he could: and in course of time it healed up completely. The Lion's gratitude was unbounded; he looked upon the man as his friend, and they shared the cave for some time together. A day came, however, when the Slave began to long for the society of his fellow-men, and he bade farewell to the Lion and returned to the town. Here he was presently recognised and carried off in chains to his former master, who resolved to make an example of him, and ordered that he should be thrown to the beasts at the next public spectacle in the theatre. On the fatal day the beasts were loosed into the arena, and among the rest a Lion of huge bulk and ferocious aspect; and then the wretched Slave was cast in among them. What was the amazement of the spectators, when the Lion after one glance bounded up to him and lay down at his feet with every expression of affection and delight! It was his old friend of the cave! The audience clamoured that the Slave's life should be spared: and the governor of the town, marvelling at such gratitude and fidelity in a beast, decreed that both should receive their liberty.
A Slave escaped from his master, who had treated him very badly, and to avoid being caught, he fled into the desert. While searching for food and shelter, he found a cave and went inside, thinking it was empty. In reality, it was a Lion's den, and soon, to the horror of the runaway Slave, the Lion appeared. The man thought he was doomed, but to his surprise, the Lion, instead of attacking him, came over and rubbed against him, whining and lifting his paw. Noticing that the paw was swollen and inflamed, the Slave examined it and found a large thorn embedded in the pad. He carefully removed it and treated the wound as best as he could, and eventually, it healed completely. The Lion was incredibly grateful and regarded the man as a friend, and they lived together in the cave for a while. However, one day, the Slave started to miss the company of other people, so he said goodbye to the Lion and returned to the town. He was soon recognized and captured, taken away in chains back to his old master, who decided to punish him by throwing him to the beasts at the next public event in the theater. On that fateful day, the animals were released into the arena, including a huge, fierce Lion; then the unfortunate Slave was thrown in with them. The audience was shocked when the Lion, after a brief glance, bounded up to him and lay down at his feet, showing affection and joy! It was his old friend from the cave! The crowd shouted for the Slave to be spared, and the governor of the town, amazed by such loyalty and gratitude from an animal, ordered that both of them be set free.
THE FLEA AND THE MAN
A Flea bit a Man, and bit him again, and again, till he could stand it no longer, but made a thorough search for it, and at last succeeded in catching it. Holding it between his finger and thumb, he said—or rather shouted, so angry was he—"Who are you, pray, you wretched little creature, that you make so free with my person?" The Flea, terrified, whimpered in a weak little voice, "Oh, sir! pray let me go; don't kill me! I am such a little thing that I can't do you much harm." But the Man laughed and said, "I am going to kill you now, at once: whatever is bad has got to be destroyed, no matter how slight the harm it does."
A flea bit a man, and then it bit him again and again, until he couldn’t take it anymore. He searched thoroughly for the flea and finally managed to catch it. Holding it between his fingers, he yelled—so furious was he—“Who are you, you miserable little pest, that you think you can bother me like this?” The flea, scared, pleaded in a weak voice, “Oh, sir! Please let me go; don’t kill me! I’m so small that I can’t do you much harm.” But the man laughed and said, “I’m going to kill you right now: anything bad needs to be wiped out, no matter how little harm it causes.”
Do not waste your pity on a scamp.
Don't waste your sympathy on a troublemaker.
THE BEE AND JUPITER
A Queen Bee from Hymettus flew up to Olympus with some fresh honey from the hive as a present to Jupiter, who was so pleased with the gift that he promised to give her anything she liked to ask for. She said she would be very grateful if he would give stings to the bees, to kill people who robbed them of their honey. Jupiter was greatly displeased with this request, for he loved mankind: but he had given his word, so he said that stings they should have. The stings he gave them, however, were of such a kind that whenever a bee stings a man the sting is left in the wound and the bee dies.
A Queen Bee from Hymettus flew up to Olympus with some fresh honey from the hive as a gift for Jupiter. He was so pleased with the present that he promised to grant her any request she made. She said she'd be very thankful if he could give stings to the bees, so they could kill anyone who stole their honey. Jupiter was very unhappy with this request because he cared for humanity, but he had given his word, so he agreed that they would have stings. However, the stings he gave them were such that whenever a bee stings a person, the sting remains in the wound, and the bee dies.
Evil wishes, like fowls, come home to roost.
Evil wishes, like birds, come back to where they started.
THE OAK AND THE REEDS
An Oak that grew on the bank of a river was uprooted by a severe gale of wind, and thrown across the stream. It fell among some Reeds growing by the water, and said to them, "How is it that you, who are so frail and slender, have managed to weather the storm, whereas I, with all my strength, have been torn up by the roots and hurled into the river?" "You were stubborn," came the reply, "and fought against the storm, which proved stronger than you: but we bow and yield to every breeze, and thus the gale passed harmlessly over our heads."
An oak tree that grew by the riverbank was uprooted by a strong wind and tossed across the stream. It landed among some reeds growing by the water and said to them, "How is it that you, being so fragile and thin, managed to survive the storm, while I, with all my strength, got ripped up by the roots and thrown into the river?" "You were stubborn," they replied, "and fought against the storm, which was stronger than you. But we bend and give way to every breeze, so the gale passed harmlessly over us."
THE BLIND MAN AND THE CUB
There was once a Blind Man who had so fine a sense of touch that, when any animal was put into his hands, he could tell what it was merely by the feel of it. One day the Cub of a Wolf was put into his hands, and he was asked what it was. He felt it for some time, and then said, "Indeed, I am not sure whether it is a Wolf's Cub or a Fox's: but this I know—it would never do to trust it in a sheepfold."
There was once a Blind Man who had such a great sense of touch that whenever an animal was placed in his hands, he could identify it just by feeling it. One day, a Wolf’s Cub was given to him, and he was asked what it was. He examined it for a while and then said, "I’m not sure if it's a Wolf's Cub or a Fox's, but I do know this—it would never be wise to trust it in a sheepfold."
Evil tendencies are early shown.
Evil tendencies show early.
THE BOY AND THE SNAILS
A Farmer's Boy went looking for Snails, and, when he had picked up both his hands full, he set about making a fire at which to roast them; for he meant to eat them. When it got well alight and the Snails began to feel the heat, they gradually withdrew more and more into their shells with the hissing noise they always make when they do so. When the Boy heard it, he said, "You abandoned creatures, how can you find heart to whistle when your houses are burning?"
A Farmer's Boy went to search for snails, and when he had collected both hands full, he started a fire to roast them because he intended to eat them. As the fire blazed and the snails began to feel the heat, they slowly started retreating deeper into their shells with the familiar hissing sound they make. When the Boy heard this, he said, "You pitiful creatures, how can you have the heart to whistle when your homes are burning?"
THE APES AND THE TWO TRAVELLERS
Two men were travelling together, one of whom never spoke the truth, whereas the other never told a lie: and they came in the course of their travels to the land of Apes. The King of the Apes, hearing of their arrival, ordered them to be brought before him; and by way of impressing them with his magnificence, he received them sitting on a throne, while the Apes, his subjects, were ranged in long rows on either side of him. When the Travellers came into his presence he asked them what they thought of him as a King. The lying Traveller said, "Sire, every one must see that you are a most noble and mighty monarch." "And what do you think of my subjects?" continued the King. "They," said the Traveller, "are in every way worthy of their royal master." The Ape was so delighted with his answer that he gave him a very handsome present. The other Traveller thought that if his companion was rewarded so splendidly for telling a lie, he himself would certainly receive a still greater reward for telling the truth; so, when the Ape turned to him and said, "And what, sir, is your opinion?" he replied, "I think you are a very fine Ape, and all your subjects are fine Apes too." The King of the Apes was so enraged at his reply that he ordered him to be taken away and clawed to death.
Two men were traveling together, one of whom never told the truth, while the other always spoke honestly. During their journey, they arrived in the land of Apes. The King of the Apes, hearing about their arrival, commanded that they be brought before him. To impress them with his grandeur, he received them seated on a throne, with the Apes, his subjects, lined up in long rows on either side of him. When the Travelers entered his presence, he asked them what they thought of him as a King. The lying Traveler said, "Your Majesty, it's obvious that you are a very noble and powerful monarch." "And what do you think of my subjects?" the King continued. "They," said the Traveler, "are in every way deserving of their royal master." The King was so pleased with his answer that he rewarded him with a generous gift. The other Traveler thought that since his companion received such a grand reward for lying, he would surely get an even greater reward for telling the truth. So when the Ape turned to him and asked, "And what is your opinion, sir?" he replied, "I think you are a very fine Ape, and all your subjects are fine Apes too." The King of the Apes was so furious at his response that he ordered him to be taken away and clawed to death.
THE ASS AND HIS BURDENS
A Pedlar who owned an Ass one day bought a quantity of salt, and loaded up his beast with as much as he could bear. On the way home the Ass stumbled as he was crossing a stream and fell into the water. The salt got thoroughly wetted and much of it melted and drained away, so that, when he got on his legs again, the Ass found his load had become much less heavy. His master, however, drove him back to town and bought more salt, which he added to what remained in the panniers, and started out again. No sooner had they reached a stream than the Ass lay down in it, and rose, as before, with a much lighter load. But his master detected the trick, and turning back once more, bought a large number of sponges, and piled them on the back of the Ass. When they came to the stream the Ass again lay down: but this time, as the sponges soaked up large quantities of water, he found, when he got up on his legs, that he had a bigger burden to carry than ever.
A peddler who owned a donkey once bought a bunch of salt and loaded up his donkey with as much as it could carry. On the way home, the donkey stumbled while crossing a stream and fell into the water. The salt got soaked and partly melted away, so when he got back on his feet, the donkey found its load was much lighter. However, the peddler took him back to town and bought more salt, which he added to what was left in the packs, and they set off again. As soon as they reached a stream, the donkey lay down in it and got up again with a much lighter load. But the peddler caught on to the trick and turned back again, buying a lot of sponges to pile onto the donkey's back. When they got to the stream, the donkey lay down once more, but this time, as the sponges soaked up a lot of water, he found that when he got up, he had a heavier load to carry than ever.
You may play a good card once too often.
You might play a good hand too many times.
THE SHEPHERD'S BOY AND THE WOLF
A Shepherd's Boy was tending his flock near a village, and thought it would be great fun to hoax the villagers by pretending that a Wolf was attacking the sheep: so he shouted out, "Wolf! wolf!" and when the people came running up he laughed at them for their pains. He did this more than once, and every time the villagers found they had been hoaxed, for there was no Wolf at all. At last a Wolf really did come, and the Boy cried, "Wolf! wolf!" as loud as he could: but the people were so used to hearing him call that they took no notice of his cries for help. And so the Wolf had it all his own way, and killed off sheep after sheep at his leisure.
A shepherd boy was watching his sheep near a village and thought it would be a fun prank to trick the villagers into thinking a wolf was attacking the flock. So he shouted, "Wolf! Wolf!" When the people rushed over, he laughed at their worries. He did this multiple times, and each time the villagers discovered it was a hoax, because there was no wolf at all. Eventually, a wolf did appear, and the boy shouted, "Wolf! Wolf!" as loudly as he could, but the villagers had become so used to his cries that they ignored him. As a result, the wolf had his way and killed sheep one after another at his leisure.
You cannot believe a liar even when he tells the truth.
You can't trust a liar, even when they're telling the truth.
THE FOX AND THE GOAT
A Fox fell into a well and was unable to get out again. By and by a thirsty Goat came by, and seeing the Fox in the well asked him if the water was good. "Good?" said the Fox, "it's the best water I ever tasted in all my life. Come down and try it yourself." The Goat thought of nothing but the prospect of quenching his thirst, and jumped in at once. When he had had enough to drink, he looked about, like the Fox, for some way of getting out, but could find none. Presently the Fox said, "I have an idea. You stand on your hind legs, and plant your forelegs firmly against the side of the well, and then I'll climb on to your back, and, from there, by stepping on your horns, I can get out. And when I'm out, I'll help you out too." The Goat did as he was requested, and the Fox climbed on to his back and so out of the well; and then he coolly walked away. The Goat called loudly after him and reminded him of his promise to help him out: but the Fox merely turned and said, "If you had as much sense in your head as you have hair in your beard you wouldn't have got into the well without making certain that you could get out again."
A Fox fell into a well and couldn't get out. After a while, a thirsty Goat came by and, seeing the Fox in the well, asked him if the water was good. "Good?" said the Fox, "it's the best water I've ever tasted in my life. Come down and try it yourself." The Goat, focused only on quenching his thirst, jumped in right away. After drinking enough, he looked around, like the Fox, for a way to get out but couldn't find any. Eventually, the Fox said, "I have an idea. You stand on your hind legs and push your front legs against the side of the well, and then I'll climb onto your back and, from there, step on your horns to get out. Once I'm out, I'll help you, too." The Goat did what he was told, and the Fox climbed onto his back and got out of the well, then casually walked away. The Goat called out after him, reminding him of his promise to help him out, but the Fox just turned and said, "If you had as much sense in your head as you have hair in your beard, you wouldn't have jumped into the well without making sure you could get out."
Look before your leap.
Look before you leap.
THE FISHERMAN AND THE SPRAT
A Fisherman cast his net into the sea, and when he drew it up again it contained nothing but a single Sprat that begged to be put back into the water. "I'm only a little fish now," it said, "but I shall grow big one day, and then if you come and catch me again I shall be of some use to you." But the Fisherman replied, "Oh, no, I shall keep you now I've got you: if I put you back, should I ever see you again? Not likely!"
A fisherman threw his net into the sea, and when he pulled it up, it only had a single sprat that pleaded to be returned to the water. "I'm just a little fish right now," it said, "but I will grow big one day, and if you catch me again then, I’ll be worth your while." But the fisherman replied, "Oh, no, I’m keeping you now that I’ve caught you; if I throw you back, what are the chances I’d see you again? Slim!"
THE BOASTING TRAVELLER
A Man once went abroad on his travels, and when he came home he had wonderful tales to tell of the things he had done in foreign countries. Among other things, he said he had taken part in a jumping-match at Rhodes, and had done a wonderful jump which no one could beat. "Just go to Rhodes and ask them," he said; "every one will tell you it's true." But one of those who were listening said, "If you can jump as well as all that, we needn't go to Rhodes to prove it. Let's just imagine this is Rhodes for a minute: and now—jump!"
A man went on a trip, and when he returned home, he had amazing stories to share about his adventures in other countries. He said he participated in a jumping contest in Rhodes and made a jump that nobody could match. "Just go to Rhodes and ask them," he said; "everyone will tell you it’s true." But one person listening replied, "If you can jump that well, we don’t need to go to Rhodes to prove it. Let’s just pretend this is Rhodes for a moment: and now—jump!"
Deeds, not words.
Actions, not words.
THE CRAB AND HIS MOTHER
An Old Crab said to her son, "Why do you walk sideways like that, my son? You ought to walk straight." The Young Crab replied, "Show me how, dear mother, and I'll follow your example." The Old Crab tried, but tried in vain, and then saw how foolish she had been to find fault with her child.
An Old Crab said to her son, "Why do you walk sideways like that, my son? You should walk straight." The Young Crab replied, "Show me how, dear mother, and I'll follow your example." The Old Crab tried, but failed, and then realized how silly she had been to criticize her child.
Example is better than precept.
Actions speak louder than words.
THE ASS AND HIS SHADOW
A certain man hired an Ass for a journey in summertime, and started out with the owner following behind to drive the beast. By and by, in the heat of the day, they stopped to rest, and the traveller wanted to lie down in the Ass's Shadow; but the owner, who himself wished to be out of the sun, wouldn't let him do that; for he said he had hired the Ass only, and not his Shadow: the other maintained that his bargain secured him complete control of the Ass for the time being. From words they came to blows; and while they were belabouring each other the Ass took to his heels and was soon out of sight.
A man hired a donkey for a trip in the summer and set off with the owner trailing behind to guide the animal. Eventually, in the heat of the day, they stopped to rest, and the traveler wanted to lie down in the donkey's shade. However, the owner, wanting to escape the sun himself, wouldn’t allow it. He argued that he had only rented the donkey, not its shade. The traveler insisted that his agreement gave him full control of the donkey for the duration of the hire. Their argument escalated to physical fighting, and while they were busy hitting each other, the donkey bolted and soon disappeared from sight.
THE FARMER AND HIS SONS
A Farmer, being at death's door, and desiring to impart to his Sons a secret of much moment, called them round him and said, "My sons, I am shortly about to die; I would have you know, therefore, that in my vineyard there lies a hidden treasure. Dig, and you will find it." As soon as their father was dead, the Sons took spade and fork and turned up the soil of the vineyard over and over again, in their search for the treasure which they supposed to lie buried there. They found none, however: but the vines, after so thorough a digging, produced a crop such as had never before been seen.
A farmer, on his deathbed and wanting to share an important secret with his sons, called them over and said, "My sons, I'm about to die. I want you to know that there's a hidden treasure in my vineyard. Dig, and you'll find it." After their father passed away, the sons grabbed shovels and forks and dug up the soil of the vineyard repeatedly, searching for the treasure they thought was buried there. However, they found nothing. But after all that digging, the vines produced a crop like never before.
THE DOG AND THE COOK
A rich man once invited a number of his friends and acquaintances to a banquet. His dog thought it would be a good opportunity to invite another Dog, a friend of his; so he went to him and said, "My master is giving a feast: there'll be a fine spread, so come and dine with me to-night." The Dog thus invited came, and when he saw the preparations being made in the kitchen he said to himself, "My word, I'm in luck: I'll take care to eat enough to-night to last me two or three days." At the same time he wagged his tail briskly, by way of showing his friend how delighted he was to have been asked. But just then the Cook caught sight of him, and, in his annoyance at seeing a strange Dog in the kitchen, caught him up by the hind legs and threw him out of the window. He had a nasty fall, and limped away as quickly as he could, howling dismally. Presently some other dogs met him, and said, "Well, what sort of a dinner did you get?" To which he replied, "I had a splendid time: the wine was so good, and I drank so much of it, that I really don't remember how I got out of the house!"
A wealthy man once invited several friends and acquaintances to a banquet. His dog thought it would be a great chance to invite another dog, a friend of his, so he went to him and said, "My owner is throwing a feast: there'll be an amazing spread, so come and eat with me tonight." The invited dog came over, and when he saw the preparations happening in the kitchen, he thought, "Wow, I'm lucky: I'll make sure to eat enough tonight to last me a couple of days." At the same time, he wagged his tail excitedly, showing his friend how happy he was to be invited. But just then, the cook spotted him and, frustrated to see a strange dog in the kitchen, grabbed him by the hind legs and threw him out the window. He had a rough fall and limped away as fast as he could, howling in pain. Soon, some other dogs approached him and asked, "So, how was dinner?" He replied, "I had an amazing time: the wine was so good, and I drank so much of it that I really don’t remember how I got out of the house!"
Be shy of favours bestowed at the expense of others.
Avoid accepting favors that harm others.
THE MONKEY AS KING
At a gathering of all the animals the Monkey danced and delighted them so much that they made him their King. The Fox, however, was very much disgusted at the promotion of the Monkey: so having one day found a trap with a piece of meat in it, he took the Monkey there and said to him, "Here is a dainty morsel I have found, sire; I did not take it myself, because I thought it ought to be reserved for you, our King. Will you be pleased to accept it?" The Monkey made at once for the meat and got caught in the trap. Then he bitterly reproached the Fox for leading him into danger; but the Fox only laughed and said, "O Monkey, you call yourself King of the Beasts and haven't more sense than to be taken in like that!"
At a gathering of all the animals, the Monkey danced and entertained them so much that they made him their King. However, the Fox was very disgusted by the Monkey's promotion. One day, he came across a trap with a piece of meat in it and took the Monkey there, saying, "I've found this treat, your majesty; I didn't take it for myself because I thought it should be saved for you, our King. Would you like to have it?" The Monkey rushed for the meat and got caught in the trap. He then angrily blamed the Fox for putting him in danger, but the Fox just laughed and said, "Oh Monkey, you call yourself King of the Beasts and you're not smart enough to avoid a trap like that!"
THE THIEVES AND THE COCK
Some Thieves broke into a house, and found nothing worth taking except a Cock, which they seized and carried off with them. When they were preparing their supper, one of them caught up the Cock, and was about to wring his neck, when he cried out for mercy and said, "Pray do not kill me: you will find me a most useful bird, for I rouse honest men to their work in the morning by my crowing." But the Thief replied with some heat, "Yes, I know you do, making it still harder for us to get a livelihood. Into the pot you go!"
Some thieves broke into a house but found nothing worth stealing except a rooster, which they took with them. When they were getting ready for dinner, one of them grabbed the rooster and was about to wring its neck when it cried out for mercy, saying, "Please don’t kill me: I’m a really useful bird because I wake up honest people for work in the morning with my crowing." But the thief snapped back, "Yeah, I know you do, making it even harder for us to make a living. Into the pot you go!"
THE FARMER AND FORTUNE
A Farmer was ploughing one day on his farm when he turned up a pot of golden coins with his plough. He was overjoyed at his discovery, and from that time forth made an offering daily at the shrine of the Goddess of the Earth. Fortune was displeased at this, and came to him and said, "My man, why do you give Earth the credit for the gift which I bestowed upon you? You never thought of thanking me for your good luck; but should you be unlucky enough to lose what you have gained I know very well that I, Fortune, should then come in for all the blame."
A farmer was plowing one day on his land when he discovered a pot of gold coins buried in the ground. He was thrilled by his find, and from that moment on, he made a daily offering at the shrine of the Earth Goddess. Fortune was not happy about this and came to him, saying, "Why are you giving credit to the Earth for the gift I gave you? You never thought to thank me for your good luck, but if you’re unfortunate enough to lose what you've gained, I know I’ll be the one you blame."
Show gratitude where gratitude is due.
Show appreciation where it's due.
JUPITER AND THE MONKEY
Jupiter issued a proclamation to all the beasts, and offered a prize to the one who, in his judgment, produced the most beautiful offspring. Among the rest came the Monkey, carrying a baby monkey in her arms, a hairless, flat-nosed little fright. When they saw it, the gods all burst into peal on peal of laughter; but the Monkey hugged her little one to her, and said, "Jupiter may give the prize to whomsoever he likes: but I shall always think my baby the most beautiful of them all."
Jupiter made an announcement to all the animals and offered a prize to whoever, in his opinion, had the most beautiful offspring. Among the others came the Monkey, holding a baby monkey in her arms, a hairless, flat-nosed little creature. When the gods saw it, they all erupted in waves of laughter; but the Monkey held her little one close and said, "Jupiter can give the prize to whomever he wants: but I will always think my baby is the most beautiful of them all."
FATHER AND SONS
A certain man had several Sons who were always quarrelling with one another, and, try as he might, he could not get them to live together in harmony. So he determined to convince them of their folly by the following means. Bidding them fetch a bundle of sticks, he invited each in turn to break it across his knee. All tried and all failed: and then he undid the bundle, and handed them the sticks one by one, when they had no difficulty at all in breaking them. "There, my boys," said he, "united you will be more than a match for your enemies: but if you quarrel and separate, your weakness will put you at the mercy of those who attack you."
A certain man had several sons who were always fighting with each other, and no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't get them to live together peacefully. So he decided to show them how foolish they were in the following way. He told them to bring him a bundle of sticks and asked each of them to try to break it over his knee. They all tried and all failed. Then he untied the bundle and gave them the sticks one by one, and they had no trouble breaking them. "See, my boys," he said, "together you are stronger than any enemy: but if you argue and go your separate ways, your weakness will leave you vulnerable to those who attack you."
Union is strength.
Unity is strength.
THE LAMP
A Lamp, well filled with oil, burned with a clear and steady light, and began to swell with pride and boast that it shone more brightly than the sun himself. Just then a puff of wind came and blew it out. Some one struck a match and lit it again, and said, "You just keep alight, and never mind the sun. Why, even the stars never need to be relit as you had to be just now."
A lamp, well-oiled, burned with a clear and steady light, and started to swell with pride, bragging that it shone brighter than the sun itself. Just then, a gust of wind came and blew it out. Someone struck a match, lit it again, and said, "You just stay lit and forget about the sun. Even the stars never need to be relit like you had to just now."
THE OWL AND THE BIRDS
The Owl is a very wise bird; and once, long ago, when the first oak sprouted in the forest, she called all the other Birds together and said to them, "You see this tiny tree? If you take my advice, you will destroy it now when it is small: for when it grows big, the mistletoe will appear upon it, from which birdlime will be prepared for your destruction." Again, when the first flax was sown, she said to them, "Go and eat up that seed, for it is the seed of the flax, out of which men will one day make nets to catch you." Once more, when she saw the first archer, she warned the Birds that he was their deadly enemy, who would wing his arrows with their own feathers and shoot them. But they took no notice of what she said: in fact, they thought she was rather mad, and laughed at her. When, however, everything turned out as she had foretold, they changed their minds and conceived a great respect for her wisdom. Hence, whenever she appears, the Birds attend upon her in the hope of hearing something that may be for their good. She, however, gives them advice no longer, but sits moping and pondering on the folly of her kind.
The Owl is a very wise bird; and once, long ago, when the first oak sprouted in the forest, she gathered all the other Birds and said to them, "Do you see this tiny tree? If you take my advice, you should destroy it now while it's small, because once it grows big, mistletoe will appear on it, which can be used to make birdlime that could trap you." Later, when the first flax was planted, she warned them, "Go and eat that seed, because it’s the seed of flax, which people will one day use to make nets to catch you." Again, when she spotted the first archer, she alerted the Birds that he was their deadly enemy, who would use their own feathers to make arrows. But they ignored her warnings: they even thought she was a bit crazy and laughed at her. However, when everything happened just as she had predicted, they changed their minds and started to greatly respect her wisdom. Now, whenever she appears, the Birds gather around her, hoping to hear something that could benefit them. She, however, no longer gives them advice; instead, she sits quietly, reflecting on the foolishness of her kind.
THE ASS IN THE LION'S SKIN
An Ass found a Lion's Skin, and dressed himself up in it. Then he went about frightening every one he met, for they all took him to be a lion, men and beasts alike, and took to their heels when they saw him coming. Elated by the success of his trick, he loudly brayed in triumph. The Fox heard him, and recognised him at once for the Ass he was, and said to him, "Oho, my friend, it's you, is it? I, too, should have been afraid if I hadn't heard your voice."
An donkey found a lion's skin and put it on. He started wandering around, scaring everyone he encountered, as they all believed he was a lion, and fled at the sight of him. Thrilled by how well his trick worked, he let out a loud bray of triumph. The fox heard him and immediately recognized him as the donkey he was. The fox said, "Oh, look who's here! I would have been scared too if I hadn’t heard your voice."
THE SHE-GOATS AND THEIR BEARDS
Jupiter granted beards to the She-Goats at their own request, much to the disgust of the he-Goats, who considered this to be an unwarrantable invasion of their rights and dignities. So they sent a deputation to him to protest against his action. He, however, advised them not to raise any objections. "What's in a tuft of hair?" said he. "Let them have it if they want it. They can never be a match for you in strength."
Jupiter gave beards to the she-goats at their own request, which really upset the he-goats. They saw it as an unfair violation of their rights and dignity. So, they sent a group to him to complain about his decision. However, he told them not to object. "What’s the big deal about a tuft of hair?" he said. "Let them have it if they want it. They can never compete with you in strength."
THE OLD LION
A Lion, enfeebled by age and no longer able to procure food for himself by force, determined to do so by cunning. Betaking himself to a cave, he lay down inside and feigned to be sick: and whenever any of the other animals entered to inquire after his health, he sprang upon them and devoured them. Many lost their lives in this way, till one day a Fox called at the cave, and, having a suspicion of the truth, addressed the Lion from outside instead of going in, and asked him how he did. He replied that he was in a very bad way: "But," said he, "why do you stand outside? Pray come in." "I should have done so," answered the Fox, "if I hadn't noticed that all the footprints point towards the cave and none the other way."
A Lion, weakened by old age and no longer able to hunt for food, decided to rely on trickery instead. He went to a cave, lay down inside, and pretended to be sick. Whenever an animal came to check on him, he would jump out and eat them. Many animals lost their lives this way until one day a Fox visited the cave. Sensing something was off, the Fox stayed outside and called out to the Lion, asking how he was. The Lion replied that he was very sick: “But why do you stand outside? Please come in.” The Fox said, “I would have, but I noticed all the footprints lead into the cave and none come out.”
THE BOY BATHING
A Boy was bathing in a river and got out of his depth, and was in great danger of being drowned. A man who was passing along a road heard his cries for help, and went to the riverside and began to scold him for being so careless as to get into deep water, but made no attempt to help him. "Oh, sir," cried the Boy, "please help me first and scold me afterwards."
A boy was swimming in a river and went too deep, putting himself in serious danger of drowning. A man who was walking along a road heard his cries for help, went to the riverbank, and started yelling at him for being so irresponsible to go into deep water, but didn’t try to save him. “Oh, sir,” shouted the boy, “please help me first and then you can scold me afterwards.”
Give assistance, not advice, in a crisis.
Give help, not advice, in a crisis.
THE QUACK FROG
Once upon a time a Frog came forth from his home in the marshes and proclaimed to all the world that he was a learned physician, skilled in drugs and able to cure all diseases. Among the crowd was a Fox, who called out, "You a doctor! Why, how can you set up to heal others when you cannot even cure your own lame legs and blotched and wrinkled skin?"
Once upon a time, a Frog came out from his home in the marshes and announced to everyone that he was a knowledgeable doctor, expert in medicine and capable of curing all illnesses. Among the crowd was a Fox, who shouted, "You a doctor! How can you claim to heal others when you can't even fix your own lame legs and splotchy, wrinkled skin?"
Physician, heal thyself.
Doctor, heal yourself.
THE SWOLLEN FOX
A hungry Fox found in a hollow tree a quantity of bread and meat, which some shepherds had placed there against their return. Delighted with his find he slipped in through the narrow aperture and greedily devoured it all. But when he tried to get out again he found himself so swollen after his big meal that he could not squeeze through the hole, and fell to whining and groaning over his misfortune. Another Fox, happening to pass that way, came and asked him what the matter was; and, on learning the state of the case, said, "Well, my friend, I see nothing for it but for you to stay where you are till you shrink to your former size; you'll get out then easily enough."
A hungry Fox discovered a stash of bread and meat in a hollow tree that some shepherds had left there for later. Excited about his find, he squeezed through the small opening and greedily ate everything. But when he tried to get out again, he realized he was so stuffed that he couldn’t fit through the hole. He began to whine and groan about his bad luck. Another Fox happened to walk by, asked him what was wrong, and, after hearing the story, said, "Well, my friend, it looks like you’ll have to wait until you get back to your normal size; then you’ll be able to get out easily."
THE MOUSE, THE FROG, AND THE HAWK
A Mouse and a Frog struck up a friendship; they were not well mated, for the Mouse lived entirely on land, while the Frog was equally at home on land or in the water. In order that they might never be separated, the Frog tied himself and the Mouse together by the leg with a piece of thread. As long as they kept on dry land all went fairly well; but, coming to the edge of a pool, the Frog jumped in, taking the Mouse with him, and began swimming about and croaking with pleasure. The unhappy Mouse, however, was soon drowned, and floated about on the surface in the wake of the Frog. There he was spied by a Hawk, who pounced down on him and seized him in his talons. The Frog was unable to loose the knot which bound him to the Mouse, and thus was carried off along with him and eaten by the Hawk.
A Mouse and a Frog became friends; they weren’t a great match, though, because the Mouse lived entirely on land, while the Frog was just as comfortable on land as he was in water. To ensure they would never be apart, the Frog tied himself and the Mouse together by the leg with a piece of thread. As long as they stayed on dry land, everything went pretty well; but when they reached the edge of a pool, the Frog jumped in, taking the Mouse with him, and started swimming around and croaking happily. Unfortunately, the poor Mouse quickly drowned and floated on the surface behind the Frog. There, a Hawk spotted him, swooping down and grabbing him in its talons. The Frog couldn’t untie the knot that bound him to the Mouse, so he was taken along with him and eaten by the Hawk.
THE BOY AND THE NETTLES
A Boy was gathering berries from a hedge when his hand was stung by a Nettle. Smarting with the pain, he ran to tell his mother, and said to her between his sobs, "I only touched it ever so lightly, mother." "That's just why you got stung, my son," she said; "if you had grasped it firmly, it wouldn't have hurt you in the least."
A boy was picking berries from a bush when he got stung by a nettle. Wincing in pain, he hurried to tell his mother and said through his tears, "I barely touched it, Mom." "That's exactly why you got stung, my son," she replied. "If you had held it tightly, it wouldn't have hurt you at all."
THE PEASANT AND THE APPLE-TREE
A Peasant had an Apple-tree growing in his garden, which bore no fruit, but merely served to provide a shelter from the heat for the sparrows and grasshoppers which sat and chirped in its branches. Disappointed at its barrenness he determined to cut it down, and went and fetched his axe for the purpose. But when the sparrows and the grasshoppers saw what he was about to do, they begged him to spare it, and said to him, "If you destroy the tree we shall have to seek shelter elsewhere, and you will no longer have our merry chirping to enliven your work in the garden." He, however, refused to listen to them, and set to work with a will to cut through the trunk. A few strokes showed that it was hollow inside and contained a swarm of bees and a large store of honey. Delighted with his find he threw down his axe, saying, "The old tree is worth keeping after all."
A farmer had an apple tree in his garden that didn’t bear any fruit but only provided shade from the heat for the sparrows and grasshoppers that perched and chirped in its branches. Frustrated with its emptiness, he decided to chop it down and went to get his axe. But when the sparrows and grasshoppers saw what he was about to do, they pleaded with him to save it, saying, "If you ruin the tree, we'll have to find shelter elsewhere, and you won’t hear our cheerful chirping to brighten your time in the garden." However, he ignored them and began chopping the trunk with determination. A few hits revealed that it was hollow inside and held a swarm of bees along with a large stash of honey. Thrilled with his discovery, he dropped his axe and said, "The old tree is worth keeping after all."
Utility is most men's test of worth.
Utility is how most men measure worth.
THE JACKDAW AND THE PIGEONS
A Jackdaw, watching some Pigeons in a farmyard, was filled with envy when he saw how well they were fed, and determined to disguise himself as one of them, in order to secure a share of the good things they enjoyed. So he painted himself white from head to foot and joined the flock; and, so long as he was silent, they never suspected that he was not a pigeon like themselves. But one day he was unwise enough to start chattering, when they at once saw through his disguise and pecked him so unmercifully that he was glad to escape and join his own kind again. But the other jackdaws did not recognise him in his white dress, and would not let him feed with them, but drove him away: and so he became a homeless wanderer for his pains.
A Jackdaw, watching some Pigeons in a farmyard, felt a wave of jealousy when he noticed how well they were being fed and decided to disguise himself as one of them to get a share of their good food. He painted himself white from head to toe and joined the flock; as long as he stayed quiet, they never suspected he wasn't a pigeon like them. However, one day he foolishly began to chatter, and they immediately saw through his disguise and pecked him so harshly that he was happy to escape and return to his own kind. But the other jackdaws didn’t recognize him in his white outfit and wouldn’t let him feed with them, chasing him away. As a result, he became a homeless wanderer for his trouble.
JUPITER AND THE TORTOISE
Jupiter was about to marry a wife, and determined to celebrate the event by inviting all the animals to a banquet. They all came except the Tortoise, who did not put in an appearance, much to Jupiter's surprise. So when he next saw the Tortoise he asked him why he had not been at the banquet. "I don't care for going out," said the Tortoise; "there's no place like home." Jupiter was so much annoyed by this reply that he decreed that from that time forth the Tortoise should carry his house upon his back, and never be able to get away from home even if he wished to.
Jupiter was about to marry, and he decided to celebrate the event by inviting all the animals to a feast. They all showed up except for the Tortoise, which surprised Jupiter. So, when he next saw the Tortoise, he asked why he hadn’t come to the feast. "I don't like going out," said the Tortoise; "there's no place like home." Jupiter was so annoyed by this answer that he declared that from then on, the Tortoise would carry his house on his back and would never be able to leave home even if he wanted to.
THE DOG IN THE MANGER
A Dog was lying in a Manger on the hay which had been put there for the cattle, and when they came and tried to eat, he growled and snapped at them and wouldn't let them get at their food. "What a selfish beast," said one of them to his companions; "he can't eat himself and yet he won't let those eat who can."
A dog was lying in a manger on the hay that was meant for the cattle, and when they came and tried to eat, he growled and snapped at them, refusing to let them have their food. "What a selfish animal," one of them said to his friends; "he can't eat it himself, and yet he won't let those who can."
THE TWO BAGS
Every man carries Two Bags about with him, one in front and one behind, and both are packed full of faults. The Bag in front contains his neighbours' faults, the one behind his own. Hence it is that men do not see their own faults, but never fail to see those of others.
Every person carries two bags with them, one in front and one behind, both filled with faults. The bag in front holds other people's faults, while the one behind contains their own. That's why people often overlook their own faults but can easily spot those of others.
THE OXEN AND THE AXLETREES
A pair of Oxen were drawing a heavily loaded waggon along the highway, and, as they tugged and strained at the yoke, the Axletrees creaked and groaned terribly. This was too much for the Oxen, who turned round indignantly and said, "Hullo, you there! Why do you make such a noise when we do all the work?"
A pair of oxen were pulling a heavily loaded wagon down the highway, and as they tugged and strained at the yoke, the axles creaked and groaned loudly. This was too much for the oxen, who turned around angrily and said, "Hey you! Why are you making such a noise when we're doing all the work?"
They complain most who suffer least.
They complain the most who suffer the least.
THE BOY AND THE FILBERTS
A Boy put his hand into a jar of Filberts, and grasped as many as his fist could possibly hold. But when he tried to pull it out again, he found he couldn't do so, for the neck of the jar was too small to allow of the passage of so large a handful. Unwilling to lose his nuts but unable to withdraw his hand, he burst into tears. A bystander, who saw where the trouble lay, said to him, "Come, my boy, don't be so greedy: be content with half the amount, and you'll be able to get your hand out without difficulty."
A boy put his hand into a jar of hazelnuts and grabbed as many as he could hold. But when he tried to pull it out again, he realized he couldn't because the neck of the jar was too small to allow such a big handful to come out. Not wanting to lose his nuts but unable to get his hand out, he started to cry. A bystander, noticing what the problem was, said to him, "Come on, kid, don't be so greedy; just take half, and you'll be able to get your hand out easily."
Do not attempt too much at once.
Do not try to do too much at once.
THE FROGS ASKING FOR A KING
KING LOG
Time was when the Frogs were discontented because they had no one to rule over them: so they sent a deputation to Jupiter to ask him to give them a King. Jupiter, despising the folly of their request, cast a log into the pool where they lived, and said that that should be their King. The Frogs were terrified at first by the splash, and scuttled away into the deepest parts of the pool; but by and by, when they saw that the log remained motionless, one by one they ventured to the surface again, and before long, growing bolder, they began to feel such contempt for it that they even took to sitting upon it. Thinking that a King of that sort was an insult to their dignity, they sent to Jupiter a second time, and begged him to take away the sluggish King he had given them, and to give them another and a better one. Jupiter, annoyed at being pestered in this way, sent a Stork to rule over them, who no sooner arrived among them than he began to catch and eat the Frogs as fast as he could.
There was a time when the Frogs were unhappy because they had no one to rule over them. So, they sent a group to Jupiter to ask him for a King. Jupiter, mocking the silliness of their request, threw a log into the pond where they lived and said that would be their King. The Frogs were scared at first by the splash and scurried into the deepest parts of the pond; but soon, when they saw that the log didn’t move, they slowly started to come back to the surface. Before long, they grew bolder and started sitting on it, feeling such disdain for it that they thought having a King like that was an insult to their dignity. They sent another message to Jupiter, asking him to take away the lazy King he had given them and to provide them with a better one. Jupiter, annoyed by their constant pestering, sent a Stork to rule over them. As soon as the Stork arrived, he began catching and eating the Frogs as quickly as he could.
THE OLIVE-TREE AND THE FIG-TREE
An Olive-tree taunted a Fig-tree with the loss of her leaves at a certain season of the year. "You," she said, "lose your leaves every autumn, and are bare till the spring: whereas I, as you see, remain green and flourishing all the year round." Soon afterwards there came a heavy fall of snow, which settled on the leaves of the Olive so that she bent and broke under the weight; but the flakes fell harmlessly through the bare branches of the Fig, which survived to bear many another crop.
An Olive tree mocked a Fig tree for losing its leaves at a certain time of year. "You," she said, "drop your leaves every autumn and are bare until spring, while I, as you can see, stay green and thriving all year long." Soon after, a heavy snowfall came, piling up on the Olive's leaves until she bent and broke under the weight. Meanwhile, the snowflakes fell harmlessly through the Fig's bare branches, allowing it to survive and produce many more crops.
THE LION AND THE BOAR
One hot and thirsty day in the height of summer a Lion and a Boar came down to a little spring at the same moment to drink. In a trice they were quarrelling as to who should drink first. The quarrel soon became a fight and they attacked one another with the utmost fury. Presently, stopping for a moment to take breath, they saw some vultures seated on a rock above evidently waiting for one of them to be killed, when they would fly down and feed upon the carcase. The sight sobered them at once, and they made up their quarrel, saying, "We had much better be friends than fight and be eaten by vultures."
One hot and thirsty day in the peak of summer, a Lion and a Boar arrived at a small spring at the same time to drink. Instantly, they started arguing over who should drink first. The argument quickly escalated into a fight, and they attacked each other with full force. After a moment, they paused to catch their breath and noticed some vultures sitting on a rock above, clearly waiting for one of them to be killed so they could swoop down and feed on the carcass. The sight sobered them immediately, and they reconciled, saying, "We’re better off as friends than fighting and getting eaten by vultures."
THE WALNUT-TREE
A Walnut-tree, which grew by the roadside, bore every year a plentiful crop of nuts. Every one who passed by pelted its branches with sticks and stones, in order to bring down the fruit, and the tree suffered severely. "It is hard," it cried, "that the very persons who enjoy my fruit should thus reward me with insults and blows."
A walnut tree that grew by the roadside produced a lot of nuts every year. Everyone who walked by threw sticks and stones at its branches to knock down the fruit, and the tree suffered a lot. "It's unfair," it complained, "that the very people who enjoy my fruit repay me with insults and hits."
THE MAN AND THE LION
A Man and a Lion were companions on a journey, and in the course of conversation they began to boast about their prowess, and each claimed to be superior to the other in strength and courage. They were still arguing with some heat when they came to a cross-road where there was a statue of a Man strangling a Lion. "There!" said the Man triumphantly, "look at that! Doesn't that prove to you that we are stronger than you?" "Not so fast, my friend," said the Lion: "that is only your view of the case. If we Lions could make statues, you may be sure that in most of them you would see the Man underneath."
A man and a lion were traveling together, and during their journey, they started boasting about their strength and courage, each claiming to be better than the other. They were still heatedly arguing when they reached a crossroads, where there was a statue of a man choking a lion. "See that!" the man said triumphantly, "doesn't that prove we're stronger than you?" "Not so fast, my friend," replied the lion. "That's just your perspective. If we lions could create statues, you'd probably see the man underneath in most of them."
There are two sides to every question.
There are two sides to every question.
THE TORTOISE AND THE EAGLE
A Tortoise, discontented with his lowly life, and envious of the birds he saw disporting themselves in the air, begged an Eagle to teach him to fly. The Eagle protested that it was idle for him to try, as nature had not provided him with wings; but the Tortoise pressed him with entreaties and promises of treasure, insisting that it could only be a question of learning the craft of the air. So at length the Eagle consented to do the best he could for him, and picked him up in his talons. Soaring with him to a great height in the sky he then let him go, and the wretched Tortoise fell headlong and was dashed to pieces on a rock.
A Tortoise, unhappy with his humble life and jealous of the birds enjoying themselves in the sky, asked an Eagle to teach him how to fly. The Eagle warned him that it was pointless to try, since nature hadn't given him wings. But the Tortoise kept begging and promising treasure, insisting that it was just a matter of learning how to fly. Eventually, the Eagle agreed to do what he could and picked him up in his claws. Soaring high into the sky, the Eagle then let him go, and the unfortunate Tortoise plummeted and was shattered on a rock.
THE KID ON THE HOUSETOP
A Kid climbed up on to the roof of an outhouse, attracted by the grass and other things that grew in the thatch; and as he stood there browsing away, he caught sight of a Wolf passing below, and jeered at him because he couldn't reach him. The Wolf only looked up and said, "I hear you, my young friend; but it is not you who mock me, but the roof on which you are standing."
A kid climbed up onto the roof of a shed, drawn by the grass and other things growing in the thatch; and while he was there munching away, he spotted a wolf passing by and made fun of him because he couldn't reach him. The wolf just looked up and said, "I hear you, my young friend; but it’s not you who is mocking me, it’s the roof you’re standing on."
THE FOX WITHOUT A TAIL
A fox once fell into a trap, and after a struggle managed to get free, but with the loss of his brush. He was then so much ashamed of his appearance that he thought life was not worth living unless he could persuade the other Foxes to part with their tails also, and thus divert attention from his own loss. So he called a meeting of all the Foxes, and advised them to cut off their tails: "They're ugly things anyhow," he said, "and besides they're heavy, and it's tiresome to be always carrying them about with you." But one of the other Foxes said, "My friend, if you hadn't lost your own tail, you wouldn't be so keen on getting us to cut off ours."
A fox once got caught in a trap and, after struggling, managed to escape, but he lost his tail in the process. He felt so embarrassed about how he looked that he thought life wasn’t worth living unless he could convince the other foxes to get rid of their tails too, to take the focus off his own loss. So, he called a meeting of all the foxes and suggested they all cut off their tails: "They're ugly anyway," he said, "and they’re heavy, and it's such a hassle to keep dragging them around." But one of the other foxes replied, "My friend, if you hadn't lost your own tail, you wouldn't be so eager to get us to cut off ours."
THE VAIN JACKDAW
Jupiter announced that he intended to appoint a king over the birds, and named a day on which they were to appear before his throne, when he would select the most beautiful of them all to be their ruler. Wishing to look their best on the occasion they repaired to the banks of a stream, where they busied themselves in washing and preening their feathers. The Jackdaw was there along with the rest, and realised that, with his ugly plumage, he would have no chance of being chosen as he was: so he waited till they were all gone, and then picked up the most gaudy of the feathers they had dropped, and fastened them about his own body, with the result that he looked gayer than any of them. When the appointed day came, the birds assembled before Jupiter's throne; and, after passing them in review, he was about to make the Jackdaw king, when all the rest set upon the king-elect, stripped him of his borrowed plumes, and exposed him for the Jackdaw that he was.
Jupiter announced that he planned to appoint a king over the birds and set a date for them to appear before his throne, where he would choose the most beautiful among them to be their ruler. Wanting to look their best for the occasion, they gathered by the bank of a stream, where they busied themselves washing and preening their feathers. The Jackdaw was there too and realized that, with his ugly feathers, he had no chance of being chosen as he was. So, he waited until they all left, then picked up the brightest feathers they had dropped and fastened them onto himself, making him look more colorful than any of them. When the appointed day arrived, the birds gathered before Jupiter's throne, and after reviewing them, he was about to make the Jackdaw king when the others attacked him, stripping him of his borrowed plumes and revealing him for the Jackdaw he really was.
THE TRAVELLER AND HIS DOG
A Traveller was about to start on a journey, and said to his Dog, who was stretching himself by the door, "Come, what are you yawning for? Hurry up and get ready: I mean you to go with me." But the Dog merely wagged his tail and said quietly, "I'm ready, master: it's you I'm waiting for."
A traveler was getting ready to leave on a trip and said to his dog, who was stretching by the door, "Come on, why are you yawning? Hurry up and get ready; I want you to come with me." But the dog just wagged his tail and replied calmly, "I'm ready, master; I'm just waiting for you."
THE SHIPWRECKED MAN AND THE SEA
A Shipwrecked Man cast up on the beach fell asleep after his struggle with the waves. When he woke up, he bitterly reproached the Sea for its treachery in enticing men with its smooth and smiling surface, and then, when they were well embarked, turning in fury upon them and sending both ship and sailors to destruction. The Sea arose in the form of a woman, and replied, "Lay not the blame on me, O sailor, but on the Winds. By nature I am as calm and safe as the land itself: but the Winds fall upon me with their gusts and gales, and lash me into a fury that is not natural to me."
A shipwrecked man washed up on the beach fell asleep after battling the waves. When he woke up, he angrily blamed the sea for its deceit, luring people in with its calm and inviting appearance, only to turn violently on them when they were well out at sea, sending both ships and sailors to ruin. The sea took the form of a woman and said, "Don’t blame me, sailor, blame the winds. By nature, I am as peaceful and safe as the land: but the winds attack me with their gusts and storms, driving me into a rage that isn’t my true nature."
THE WILD BOAR AND THE FOX
A Wild Boar was engaged in whetting his tusks upon the trunk of a tree in the forest when a Fox came by and, seeing what he was at, said to him, "Why are you doing that, pray? The huntsmen are not out to-day, and there are no other dangers at hand that I can see." "True, my friend," replied the Boar, "but the instant my life is in danger I shall need to use my tusks. There'll be no time to sharpen them then."
A wild boar was sharpening his tusks on the trunk of a tree in the forest when a fox passed by and, seeing what he was doing, said to him, "Why are you doing that? The hunters aren't out today, and I don’t see any other dangers around." "That's true, my friend," replied the boar, "but the moment my life is in danger, I’ll need to use my tusks. There won’t be any time to sharpen them then."
MERCURY AND THE SCULPTOR
Mercury was very anxious to know in what estimation he was held by mankind; so he disguised himself as a man and walked into a Sculptor's studio, where there were a number of statues finished and ready for sale. Seeing a statue of Jupiter among the rest, he inquired the price of it. "A crown," said the Sculptor. "Is that all?" said he, laughing; "and" (pointing to one of Juno) "how much is that one?" "That," was the reply, "is half a crown." "And how much might you be wanting for that one over there, now?" he continued, pointing to a statue of himself. "That one?" said the Sculptor; "Oh, I'll throw him in for nothing if you'll buy the other two."
Mercury was really curious about how people viewed him, so he dressed up as a man and entered a sculptor's studio, where several finished statues were up for sale. Spotting a statue of Jupiter among the others, he asked for its price. "A crown," replied the sculptor. "Is that it?" he said, laughing; "and" (pointing to a statue of Juno) "what about that one?" "That one is half a crown," came the answer. "And how much do you want for that one over there?" he continued, pointing to a statue of himself. "That one?" said the sculptor; "Oh, I’ll give him to you for free if you buy the other two."
THE FAWN AND HIS MOTHER
A Hind said to her Fawn, who was now well grown and strong, "My son, Nature has given you a powerful body and a stout pair of horns, and I can't think why you are such a coward as to run away from the hounds." Just then they both heard the sound of a pack in full cry, but at a considerable distance. "You stay where you are," said the Hind; "never mind me": and with that she ran off as fast as her legs could carry her.
A deer said to her fawn, who was now well grown and strong, "My son, nature has given you a strong body and a sturdy set of antlers, so I don’t understand why you’re such a coward, running away from the hounds." Just then, they both heard a pack barking in the distance. "You stay here," said the deer; "don’t worry about me." With that, she took off as fast as she could.
THE FOX AND THE LION
A Fox who had never seen a Lion one day met one, and was so terrified at the sight of him that he was ready to die with fear. After a time he met him again, and was still rather frightened, but not nearly so much as he had been when he met him first. But when he saw him for the third time he was so far from being afraid that he went up to him and began to talk to him as if he had known him all his life.
A Fox who had never seen a Lion met one for the first time and was so scared that he felt like he might die from fear. Later, he saw the Lion again and was still a bit frightened, but not nearly as much as the first time. By the time he encountered the Lion for the third time, he was so far from being afraid that he approached him and started chatting as if they had been friends forever.
THE EAGLE AND HIS CAPTOR
A Man once caught an Eagle, and after clipping his wings turned him loose among the fowls in his hen-house, where he moped in a corner, looking very dejected and forlorn. After a while his Captor was glad enough to sell him to a neighbour, who took him home and let his wings grow again. As soon as he had recovered the use of them, the Eagle flew out and caught a hare, which he brought home and presented to his benefactor. A fox observed this, and said to the Eagle, "Don't waste your gifts on him! Go and give them to the man who first caught you; make _him_ your friend, and then perhaps he won't catch you and clip your wings a second time."
A man once caught an eagle and, after trimming its wings, released it among the chickens in his coop, where it sat in a corner, looking very sad and miserable. Eventually, the man was happy to sell it to a neighbor, who took it home and allowed its wings to grow back. Once the eagle regained its ability to fly, it soared out, caught a hare, and brought it back to its new owner as a gift. A fox saw this and said to the eagle, "Don’t waste your talents on him! Go and give them to the man who captured you first; make him your friend, and maybe he won't catch you and clip your wings again."
THE BLACKSMITH AND HIS DOG
A Blacksmith had a little Dog, which used to sleep when his master was at work, but was very wide awake indeed when it was time for meals. One day his master pretended to be disgusted at this, and when he had thrown him a bone as usual, he said, "What on earth is the good of a lazy cur like you? When I am hammering away at my anvil, you just curl up and go to sleep: but no sooner do I stop for a mouthful of food than you wake up and wag your tail to be fed."
A blacksmith had a small dog that would sleep while he was working, but was completely alert when it was time to eat. One day, the blacksmith pretended to be annoyed by this, and after tossing a bone to the dog as usual, he said, "What's the point of having a lazy mutt like you? When I'm hammering at my anvil, you just curl up and snooze: but as soon as I stop for a bite to eat, you wake up and wag your tail to get fed."
Those who will not work deserve to starve.
Those who won't work deserve to go hungry.
THE STAG AT THE POOL
A thirsty Stag went down to a pool to drink. As he bent over the surface he saw his own reflection in the water, and was struck with admiration for his fine spreading antlers, but at the same time he felt nothing but disgust for the weakness and slenderness of his legs. While he stood there looking at himself, he was seen and attacked by a Lion; but in the chase which ensued, he soon drew away from his pursuer, and kept his lead as long as the ground over which he ran was open and free of trees. But coming presently to a wood, he was caught by his antlers in the branches, and fell a victim to the teeth and claws of his enemy. "Woe is me!" he cried with his last breath; "I despised my legs, which might have saved my life: but I gloried in my horns, and they have proved my ruin."
A thirsty Stag went to a pool to drink. As he leaned over the water, he saw his own reflection and admired his impressive antlers but felt disgusted by the weakness and slimness of his legs. As he stood there looking at himself, a Lion spotted him and launched an attack. In the chase that followed, he quickly pulled ahead of the Lion and maintained his lead as long as he ran on open ground. However, when he reached a forest, his antlers got caught in the branches, and he fell victim to the Lion's teeth and claws. "Woe is me!" he exclaimed with his last breath; "I undervalued my legs, which could have saved my life, but I took pride in my antlers, and they led to my downfall."
What is worth most is often valued least.
What matters most is often taken for granted.
THE DOG AND THE SHADOW
A Dog was crossing a plank bridge over a stream with a piece of meat in his mouth, when he happened to see his own reflection in the water. He thought it was another dog with a piece of meat twice as big; so he let go his own, and flew at the other dog to get the larger piece. But, of course, all that happened was that he got neither; for one was only a shadow, and the other was carried away by the current.
A dog was walking across a plank bridge over a stream, holding a piece of meat in his mouth, when he saw his own reflection in the water. He thought it was another dog with a piece of meat that was twice as big, so he dropped his own and lunged at the other dog to grab the bigger piece. But, of course, he ended up with neither; one was just a reflection, and the other was swept away by the current.
MERCURY AND THE TRADESMEN
When Jupiter was creating man, he told Mercury to make an infusion of lies, and to add a little of it to the other ingredients which went to the making of the Tradesmen. Mercury did so, and introduced an equal amount into each in turn—the tallow-chandler, and the greengrocer, and the haberdasher, and all, till he came to the horse-dealer, who was last on the list, when, finding that he had a quantity of the infusion still left, he put it all into him. This is why all Tradesmen lie more or less, but they none of them lie like a horse-dealer.
When Jupiter was creating humans, he instructed Mercury to mix in some lies and add a bit of it to the other ingredients used to make the Tradesmen. Mercury did this, pouring an equal amount into each one in turn—the tallow-chandler, the greengrocer, the haberdasher, and so on, until he reached the horse-dealer, who was last on the list. Realizing he still had a lot of the mixture left, he added it all to him. That's why all Tradesmen lie to some extent, but none lie quite like a horse-dealer.
THE MICE AND THE WEASELS
There was war between the Mice and the Weasels, in which the Mice always got the worst of it, numbers of them being killed and eaten by the Weasels. So they called a council of war, in which an old Mouse got up and said, "It's no wonder we are always beaten, for we have no generals to plan our battles and direct our movements in the field." Acting on his advice, they chose the biggest Mice to be their leaders, and these, in order to be distinguished from the rank and file, provided themselves with helmets bearing large plumes of straw. They then led out the Mice to battle, confident of victory: but they were defeated as usual, and were soon scampering as fast as they could to their holes. All made their way to safety without difficulty except the leaders, who were so hampered by the badges of their rank that they could not get into their holes, and fell easy victims to their pursuers.
There was a war between the Mice and the Weasels, and the Mice always ended up suffering the most, with many of them being killed and eaten by the Weasels. So, they called a war council, where an old Mouse stood up and said, "It's no surprise we're always losing since we don't have any generals to plan our battles and guide us on the field." Following his advice, they chose the biggest Mice to be their leaders, and these leaders, to stand out from the regular Mice, equipped themselves with helmets adorned with large plumes of straw. They then led the Mice into battle, sure they would win, but, as usual, they were defeated, and soon they were rushing back to their holes. Everyone made it to safety easily except for the leaders, who were so weighed down by their rank insignia that they couldn't squeeze into their holes and became easy targets for their pursuers.
Greatness carries its own penalties.
Greatness comes with its costs.
THE PEACOCK AND JUNO
The Peacock was greatly discontented because he had not a beautiful voice like the nightingale, and he went and complained to Juno about it. "The nightingale's song," said he, "is the envy of all the birds; but whenever I utter a sound I become a laughing-stock." The goddess tried to console him by saying, "You have not, it is true, the power of song, but then you far excel all the rest in beauty: your neck flashes like the emerald and your splendid tail is a marvel of gorgeous colour." But the Peacock was not appeased. "What is the use," said he, "of being beautiful, with a voice like mine?" Then Juno replied, with a shade of sternness in her tones, "Fate has allotted to all their destined gifts: to yourself beauty, to the eagle strength, to the nightingale song, and so on to all the rest in their degree; but you alone are dissatisfied with your portion. Make, then, no more complaints. For, if your present wish were granted, you would quickly find cause for fresh discontent."
The Peacock was really unhappy because he didn't have a beautiful voice like the nightingale, so he went to complain to Juno about it. "The nightingale's song," he said, "is what all the birds envy; but whenever I make a sound, I just become a joke." The goddess tried to comfort him by saying, "It's true you don't have the gift of song, but you far surpass all the others in beauty: your neck shines like an emerald, and your magnificent tail is a wonder of vibrant colors." But the Peacock wasn't satisfied. "What's the point," he said, "of being beautiful if I have a voice like mine?" Then Juno replied, with a hint of seriousness in her voice, "Fate has given each creature their own gifts: you have beauty, the eagle has strength, the nightingale has song, and so on for everyone else; yet you are the only one who is unhappy with what you have. So, no more complaining. If your wish were granted, you would quickly find something else to be unhappy about."
THE BEAR AND THE FOX
A Bear was once bragging about his generous feelings, and saying how refined he was compared with other animals. (There is, in fact, a tradition that a Bear will never touch a dead body.) A Fox, who heard him talking in this strain, smiled and said, "My friend, when you are hungry, I only wish you _would_ confine your attention to the dead and leave the living alone."
A Bear was once boasting about his generous nature and how sophisticated he was compared to other animals. (Actually, there’s a belief that a Bear will never touch a dead body.) A Fox, who overheard him, smiled and said, "My friend, when you’re hungry, I just wish you would focus on the dead and leave the living alone."
A hypocrite deceives no one but himself.
A hypocrite only deceives themselves.
THE ASS AND THE OLD PEASANT
An old Peasant was sitting in a meadow watching his Ass, which was grazing close by, when all of a sudden he caught sight of armed men stealthily approaching. He jumped up in a moment, and begged the Ass to fly with him as fast as he could, "Or else," said he, "we shall both be captured by the enemy." But the Ass just looked round lazily and said, "And if so, do you think they'll make me carry heavier loads than I have to now?" "No," said his master. "Oh, well, then," said the Ass, "I don't mind if they do take me, for I shan't be any worse off."
An old farmer was sitting in a meadow watching his donkey, which was grazing nearby, when suddenly he spotted armed men quietly approaching. He jumped up quickly and asked the donkey to run away with him as fast as possible, "Or else," he said, "we'll both be captured by the enemy." But the donkey just looked around lazily and said, "And if that happens, do you think they’ll make me carry heavier loads than I do now?" "No," replied his master. "Oh, well, then," said the donkey, "I don't mind if they take me, because I won’t be any worse off."
THE OX AND THE FROG
Two little Frogs were playing about at the edge of a pool when an Ox came down to the water to drink, and by accident trod on one of them and crushed the life out of him. When the old Frog missed him, she asked his brother where he was. "He is dead, mother," said the little Frog; "an enormous big creature with four legs came to our pool this morning and trampled him down in the mud." "Enormous, was he? Was he as big as this?" said the Frog, puffing herself out to look as big as possible. "Oh! yes, _much_ bigger," was the answer. The Frog puffed herself out still more. "Was he as big as this?" said she. "Oh! yes, yes, mother, _MUCH_ bigger," said the little Frog. And yet again she puffed and puffed herself out till she was almost as round as a ball. "As big as...?" she began—but then she burst.
Two little frogs were playing at the edge of a pool when an ox came down to drink. Accidentally, it stepped on one of them and crushed him. When the mother frog noticed he was missing, she asked his brother where he was. "He's dead, mom," said the little frog. "A huge creature with four legs came to our pool this morning and stomped him into the mud." "Huge, you say? Was he as big as this?" the mother frog asked, puffing herself up to look as big as possible. "Oh! Yes, _way_ bigger," the little frog replied. The mother frog puffed herself up even more. "Was he as big as this?" she asked. "Oh! Yes, yes, mom, _MUCH_ bigger," the little frog said. And once again, she puffed herself up until she was almost round like a ball. "As big as...?" she began—but then she burst.
THE MAN AND THE IMAGE
A poor Man had a wooden Image of a god, to which he used to pray daily for riches. He did this for a long time, but remained as poor as ever, till one day he caught up the Image in disgust and hurled it with all his strength against the wall. The force of the blow split open the head and a quantity of gold coins fell out upon the floor. The Man gathered them up greedily, and said, "O you old fraud, you! When I honoured you, you did me no good whatever: but no sooner do I treat you to insults and violence than you make a rich man of me!"
A poor man had a wooden statue of a god that he prayed to every day for wealth. He did this for a long time but remained just as poor until one day he picked up the statue in frustration and threw it as hard as he could against the wall. The impact broke the head open, and a bunch of gold coins spilled out onto the floor. The man quickly gathered them up, feeling greedy, and said, "Oh, you old scam! When I respected you, you did nothing for me, but the moment I treat you with disrespect and violence, you make me rich!"
HERCULES AND THE WAGGONER
A Waggoner was driving his team along a muddy lane with a full load behind them, when the wheels of his waggon sank so deep in the mire that no efforts of his horses could move them. As he stood there, looking helplessly on, and calling loudly at intervals upon Hercules for assistance, the god himself appeared, and said to him, "Put your shoulder to the wheel, man, and goad on your horses, and then you may call on Hercules to assist you. If you won't lift a finger to help yourself, you can't expect Hercules or any one else to come to your aid."
A wagon driver was navigating his team down a muddy path with a heavy load when the wheels of his wagon sank so deep in the muck that his horses couldn’t move them. As he stood there, looking helpless and shouting for Hercules to help him, the god himself appeared and said, "Put your shoulder to the wheel, man, and urge your horses on, and then you can call on Hercules to assist you. If you’re not willing to lift a finger to help yourself, you can’t expect Hercules or anyone else to come to your rescue."
Heaven helps those who help themselves.
Heaven helps those who help themselves.
THE POMEGRANATE, THE APPLE-TREE, AND THE BRAMBLE
A Pomegranate and an Apple-tree were disputing about the quality of their fruits, and each claimed that its own was the better of the two. High words passed between them, and a violent quarrel was imminent, when a Bramble impudently poked its head out of a neighbouring hedge and said, "There, that's enough, my friends; don't let us quarrel."
A Pomegranate and an Apple tree were arguing about whose fruit was better, each insisting that theirs was superior. They exchanged harsh words and a fierce fight seemed about to break out when a Bramble cheekily popped its head out of a nearby hedge and said, "Okay, that's enough, guys; let's not argue."
THE LION, THE BEAR, AND THE FOX
A Lion and a Bear were fighting for possession of a kid, which they had both seized at the same moment. The battle was long and fierce, and at length both of them were exhausted, and lay upon the ground severely wounded and gasping for breath. A Fox had all the time been prowling round and watching the fight: and when he saw the combatants lying there too weak to move, he slipped in and seized the kid, and ran off with it. They looked on helplessly, and one said to the other, "Here we've been mauling each other all this while, and no one the better for it except the Fox!"
A Lion and a Bear were fighting over a kid that they had both grabbed at the same time. The fight was long and intense, and eventually both of them were exhausted, lying on the ground badly hurt and gasping for air. A Fox had been circling around, watching the battle: when he saw the fighters too weak to move, he slipped in, grabbed the kid, and ran off with it. They looked on helplessly, and one said to the other, "We've been beating each other up this whole time, and the only one who benefits is the Fox!"
THE BLACKAMOOR
A Man once bought an Ethiopian slave, who had a black skin like all Ethiopians; but his new master thought his colour was due to his late owner's having neglected him, and that all he wanted was a good scrubbing. So he set to work with plenty of soap and hot water, and rubbed away at him with a will, but all to no purpose: his skin remained as black as ever, while the poor wretch all but died from the cold he caught.
A man once bought an Ethiopian slave, who had black skin like all Ethiopians; but his new master thought his color was because his previous owner had neglected him and that all he needed was a good scrubbing. So, he got to work with lots of soap and hot water, scrubbing away enthusiastically, but it was all for nothing: his skin stayed as black as ever, while the poor guy nearly died from the cold he caught.
THE TWO SOLDIERS AND THE ROBBER
Two Soldiers travelling together were set upon by a Robber. One of them ran away, but the other stood his ground, and laid about him so lustily with his sword that the Robber was fain to fly and leave him in peace. When the coast was clear the timid one ran back, and, flourishing his weapon, cried in a threatening voice, "Where is he? Let me get at him, and I'll soon let him know whom he's got to deal with." But the other replied, "You are a little late, my friend: I only wish you had backed me up just now, even if you had done no more than speak, for I should have been encouraged, believing your words to be true. As it is, calm yourself, and put up your sword: there is no further use for it. You may delude others into thinking you're as brave as a lion: but I know that, at the first sign of danger, you run away like a hare."
Two soldiers traveling together were attacked by a robber. One of them ran away, but the other stood his ground and fought back so fiercely with his sword that the robber was forced to flee and leave him alone. Once it was safe, the timid one came back, waving his weapon and shouted in a threatening voice, "Where is he? Let me at him, and I’ll quickly show him who he’s dealing with." But the other replied, "You’re a bit late, my friend: I wish you had supported me just now, even if it was just with words, because it would have given me some encouragement, thinking your words were genuine. As it stands, calm down and put your sword away: there's no need for it anymore. You might fool others into believing you're as brave as a lion, but I know that at the first sign of danger, you run away like a rabbit."
THE LION AND THE WILD ASS
A Lion and a Wild Ass went out hunting together: the latter was to run down the prey by his superior speed, and the former would then come up and despatch it. They met with great success; and when it came to sharing the spoil the Lion divided it all into three equal portions. "I will take the first," said he, "because I am King of the beasts; I will also take the second, because, as your partner, I am entitled to half of what remains; and as for the third—well, unless you give it up to me and take yourself off pretty quick, the third, believe me, will make you feel very sorry for yourself!"
A Lion and a Wild Ass went hunting together. The Wild Ass was supposed to chase down the prey with his speed, and the Lion would then finish it off. They were very successful, but when it came time to share the kill, the Lion divided it into three equal parts. "I will take the first,” he said, “because I’m the King of the beasts. I will also take the second, since, as your partner, I deserve half of what’s left; and for the third—well, unless you hand it over and get lost quickly, you’ll regret it!”
Might makes right.
Power determines what's right.
THE MAN AND THE SATYR
A Man and a Satyr became friends, and determined to live together. All went well for a while, until one day in winter-time the Satyr saw the Man blowing on his hands. "Why do you do that?" he asked. "To warm my hands," said the Man. That same day, when they sat down to supper together, they each had a steaming hot bowl of porridge, and the Man raised his bowl to his mouth and blew on it. "Why do you do that?" asked the Satyr. "To cool my porridge," said the Man. The Satyr got up from the table. "Good-bye," said he, "I'm going: I can't be friends with a man who blows hot and cold with the same breath."
A man and a satyr became friends and decided to live together. Everything went well for a while, until one winter day the satyr saw the man blowing on his hands. "Why are you doing that?" he asked. "To warm my hands," replied the man. Later that day, when they sat down for dinner, each had a steaming bowl of porridge, and the man raised his bowl to his mouth and blew on it. "Why are you doing that?" asked the satyr. "To cool my porridge," said the man. The satyr got up from the table. "Goodbye," he said, "I’m leaving: I can’t be friends with someone who blows hot and cold with the same breath."
THE IMAGE-SELLER
A certain man made a wooden Image of Mercury, and exposed it for sale in the market. As no one offered to buy it, however, he thought he would try to attract a purchaser by proclaiming the virtues of the Image. So he cried up and down the market, "A god for sale! a god for sale! One who'll bring you luck and keep you lucky!" Presently one of the bystanders stopped him and said, "If your god is all you make him out to be, how is it you don't keep him and make the most of him yourself?" "I'll tell you why," replied he; "he brings gain, it is true, but he takes his time about it; whereas I want money at once."
A certain man made a wooden statue of Mercury and put it up for sale in the market. When no one showed interest, he decided to promote the statue by shouting about its qualities. So he called out throughout the market, "A god for sale! A god for sale! One who'll bring you luck and keep you lucky!" Eventually, one of the bystanders stopped him and asked, "If your god is really as amazing as you say, why don't you keep him and benefit from him yourself?" The man replied, "I'll tell you why. He does bring profit, that's true, but he takes his time to deliver; meanwhile, I need money right away."
THE EAGLE AND THE ARROW
An Eagle sat perched on a lofty rock, keeping a sharp look-out for prey. A huntsman, concealed in a cleft of the mountain and on the watch for game, spied him there and shot an Arrow at him. The shaft struck him full in the breast and pierced him through and through. As he lay in the agonies of death, he turned his eyes upon the Arrow. "Ah! cruel fate!" he cried, "that I should perish thus: but oh! fate more cruel still, that the Arrow which kills me should be winged with an Eagle's feathers!"
An eagle sat perched on a high rock, keeping a sharp lookout for prey. A hunter, hidden in a crack in the mountain and watching for game, spotted him and shot an arrow at him. The arrow hit him square in the chest and went right through. As he lay there, suffering in his last moments, he looked at the arrow. "Ah! What a cruel fate!" he cried, "that I should die like this: but oh! an even crueler fate, that the arrow that kills me should be fletched with an eagle's feathers!"
THE RICH MAN AND THE TANNER
A Rich Man took up his residence next door to a Tanner, and found the smell of the tan-yard so extremely unpleasant that he told him he must go. The Tanner delayed his departure, and the Rich Man had to speak to him several times about it; and every time the Tanner said he was making arrangements to move very shortly. This went on for some time, till at last the Rich Man got so used to the smell that he ceased to mind it, and troubled the Tanner with his objections no more.
A wealthy man moved in next to a tanner and found the smell from the tannery so unpleasant that he demanded the tanner leave. The tanner delayed his move, and the wealthy man had to bring it up several times. Each time, the tanner claimed he was making plans to leave soon. This continued for a while until the wealthy man eventually got so used to the smell that he stopped complaining to the tanner.
THE WOLF, THE MOTHER, AND HER CHILD
A hungry Wolf was prowling about in search of food. By and by, attracted by the cries of a Child, he came to a cottage. As he crouched beneath the window, he heard the Mother say to the Child, "Stop crying, do! or I'll throw you to the Wolf." Thinking she really meant what she said, he waited there a long time in the expectation of satisfying his hunger. In the evening he heard the Mother fondling her Child and saying, "If the naughty Wolf comes, he shan't get my little one: Daddy will kill him." The Wolf got up in much disgust and walked away: "As for the people in that house," said he to himself, "you can't believe a word they say."
A hungry Wolf was wandering around looking for food. Soon, drawn in by the cries of a Child, he came to a cottage. As he crouched under the window, he heard the Mother say to the Child, "Stop crying, or I'll throw you to the Wolf." Believing she meant what she said, he waited there for a long time, hoping to satisfy his hunger. In the evening, he heard the Mother sweetly talking to her Child, saying, "If that naughty Wolf comes, he won’t get my little one: Daddy will take care of him." The Wolf got up in frustration and walked away: "As for the people in that house," he thought, "you can’t trust a word they say."
THE OLD WOMAN AND THE WINE-JAR
An old Woman picked up an empty Wine-jar which had once contained a rare and costly wine, and which still retained some traces of its exquisite bouquet. She raised it to her nose and sniffed at it again and again. "Ah," she cried, "how delicious must have been the liquid which has left behind so ravishing a smell."
An old woman picked up an empty wine jar that had once held a rare and expensive wine, and still carried some hints of its amazing aroma. She held it to her nose and sniffed it over and over. "Ah," she exclaimed, "how delicious the liquid must have been to leave such a delightful scent."
THE LIONESS AND THE VIXEN
A Lioness and a Vixen were talking together about their young, as mothers will, and saying how healthy and well-grown they were, and what beautiful coats they had, and how they were the image of their parents. "My litter of cubs is a joy to see," said the Fox; and then she added, rather maliciously, "But I notice you never have more than one." "No," said the Lioness grimly, "but that one's a lion."
A lioness and a vixen were chatting about their young ones, as mothers do, discussing how healthy and well-grown they were, how beautiful their coats looked, and how much they resembled their parents. "My litter of cubs is a joy to see," said the fox; then she added, a bit maliciously, "But I've noticed you never have more than one." "No," replied the lioness firmly, "but that one is a lion."
Quality, not quantity.
Quality over quantity.
THE VIPER AND THE FILE
A Viper entered a carpenter's shop, and went from one to another of the tools, begging for something to eat. Among the rest, he addressed himself to the File, and asked for the favour of a meal. The File replied in a tone of pitying contempt, "What a simpleton you must be if you imagine you will get anything from me, who invariably take from every one and never give anything in return."
A snake slithered into a carpenter's workshop and went around to each tool, asking for something to eat. Finally, it approached the File and requested a meal. The File replied with a tone of pitying contempt, "What a fool you are to think you’ll get anything from me, who always takes from everyone and never gives anything back."
The covetous are poor givers.
Greedy people are stingy givers.
THE CAT AND THE COCK
A Cat pounced on a Cock, and cast about for some good excuse for making a meal off him, for Cats don't as a rule eat Cocks, and she knew she ought not to. At last she said, "You make a great nuisance of yourself at night by crowing and keeping people awake: so I am going to make an end of you." But the Cock defended himself by saying that he crowed in order that men might wake up and set about the day's work in good time, and that they really couldn't very well do without him. "That may be," said the Cat, "but whether they can or not, I'm not going without my dinner"; and she killed and ate him.
A cat lunged at a rooster and looked for a good excuse to make him her meal, since cats generally don’t eat roosters, and she knew she shouldn’t. Finally, she said, “You’re a real nuisance at night with your crowing, keeping everyone awake, so I’m going to put an end to you.” But the rooster defended himself, saying he crowed so that people would wake up and start their day on time, and that they really couldn’t manage without him. “That may be,” replied the cat, “but whether they can or not, I’m not skipping my dinner,” and she killed and ate him.
The want of a good excuse never kept a villain from crime.
The lack of a good excuse has never stopped a villain from committing a crime.
THE HARE AND THE TORTOISE
A Hare was one day making fun of a Tortoise for being so slow upon his feet. "Wait a bit," said the Tortoise; "I'll run a race with you, and I'll wager that I win." "Oh, well," replied the Hare, who was much amused at the idea, "let's try and see"; and it was soon agreed that the fox should set a course for them, and be the judge. When the time came both started off together, but the Hare was soon so far ahead that he thought he might as well have a rest: so down he lay and fell fast asleep. Meanwhile the Tortoise kept plodding on, and in time reached the goal. At last the Hare woke up with a start, and dashed on at his fastest, but only to find that the Tortoise had already won the race.
One day, a Hare was teasing a Tortoise for being so slow on his feet. "Wait a minute," said the Tortoise; "I’ll race you, and I bet I’ll win." "Oh, really?" replied the Hare, who found the idea hilarious, "let's give it a shot"; and they soon agreed that the fox would set the course for them and act as the judge. When the race started, both took off together, but the Hare quickly got so far ahead that he thought he could take a break: so he lay down and fell fast asleep. Meanwhile, the Tortoise kept moving steadily along and eventually reached the finish line. The Hare finally woke up with a start, sprinted as fast as he could, only to discover that the Tortoise had already won the race.
Slow and steady wins the race.
Slow and steady wins the race.
THE SOLDIER AND HIS HORSE
A Soldier gave his Horse a plentiful supply of oats in time of war, and tended him with the utmost care, for he wished him to be strong to endure the hardships of the field, and swift to bear his master, when need arose, out of the reach of danger. But when the war was over he employed him on all sorts of drudgery, bestowing but little attention upon him, and giving him, moreover, nothing but chaff to eat. The time came when war broke out again, and the Soldier saddled and bridled his Horse, and, having put on his heavy coat of mail, mounted him to ride off and take the field. But the poor half-starved beast sank down under his weight, and said to his rider, "You will have to go into battle on foot this time. Thanks to hard work and bad food, you have turned me from a Horse into an ass; and you cannot in a moment turn me back again into a Horse."
A soldier fed his horse a lot of oats during wartime and took great care of him because he wanted him to be strong enough to handle the challenges of battle and fast enough to carry him away from danger when needed. But once the war ended, he made the horse do all kinds of heavy work, hardly paying any attention to him and only giving him chaff to eat. When the war broke out again, the soldier saddled and bridled his horse, put on his heavy armor, and got ready to ride into battle. But the poor, half-starved horse collapsed under his weight and said to his rider, "You're going to have to walk into battle this time. Thanks to all the hard work and bad food, you've turned me from a horse into a donkey; and you can't just switch me back to a horse in an instant."
THE OXEN AND THE BUTCHERS
Once upon a time the Oxen determined to be revenged upon the Butchers for the havoc they wrought in their ranks, and plotted to put them to death on a given day. They were all gathered together discussing how best to carry out the plan, and the more violent of them were engaged in sharpening their horns for the fray, when an old Ox got up upon his feet and said, "My brothers, you have good reason, I know, to hate these Butchers, but, at any rate, they understand their trade and do what they have to do without causing unnecessary pain. But if we kill them, others, who have no experience, will be set to slaughter us, and will by their bungling inflict great sufferings upon us. For you may be sure that, even though all the Butchers perish, mankind will never go without their beef."
Once, the Oxen decided to take revenge on the Butchers for the destruction they caused in their ranks and plotted to kill them on a specific day. They all gathered together to discuss the best way to carry out their plan, and the more aggressive ones were sharpening their horns for the fight, when an old Ox stood up and said, "My brothers, I know you have every reason to despise these Butchers, but they at least know their job and do what they have to do without causing unnecessary pain. If we kill them, inexperienced people will be put in charge of slaughtering us, and their clumsy handling will bring us great suffering. You can be sure that even if all the Butchers are gone, humans will never stop wanting their beef."
THE WOLF AND THE LION
A wolf stole a lamb from the flock, and was carrying it off to devour it at his leisure when he met a Lion, who took his prey away from him and walked off with it. He dared not resist, but when the Lion had gone some distance he said, "It is most unjust of you to take what's mine away from me like that." The Lion laughed and called out in reply, "It was justly yours, no doubt! The gift of a friend, perhaps, eh?"
A wolf stole a lamb from the flock and was taking it away to eat it at his convenience when he ran into a Lion, who took the lamb from him and walked off with it. The wolf didn't dare to fight back, but after the Lion had gone a bit further, he said, "It's really unfair of you to just take what belongs to me like that." The Lion laughed and replied, "It was yours, sure! A gift from a friend, maybe?"
THE SHEEP, THE WOLF, AND THE STAG
A Stag once asked a Sheep to lend him a measure of wheat, saying that his friend the Wolf would be his surety. The Sheep, however, was afraid that they meant to cheat her; so she excused herself, saying, "The Wolf is in the habit of seizing what he wants and running off with it without paying, and you, too, can run much faster than I. So how shall I be able to come up with either of you when the debt falls due?"
A Stag once asked a Sheep to lend him some wheat, saying that his friend the Wolf would guarantee the loan. However, the Sheep was worried that they were trying to trick her, so she declined, saying, "The Wolf usually takes what he wants and runs off without paying, and you can run a lot faster than I can. So how am I supposed to catch up with either of you when the debt is due?"
Two blacks do not make a white.
Two wrongs don't make a right.
THE LION AND THE THREE BULLS
Three Bulls were grazing in a meadow, and were watched by a Lion, who longed to capture and devour them, but who felt that he was no match for the three so long as they kept together. So he began by false whispers and malicious hints to foment jealousies and distrust among them. This stratagem succeeded so well that ere long the Bulls grew cold and unfriendly, and finally avoided each other and fed each one by himself apart. No sooner did the Lion see this than he fell upon them one by one and killed them in turn.
Three Bulls were grazing in a meadow, being watched by a Lion who wanted to catch and eat them. However, he realized he couldn't take them on as long as they stayed together. So, he started spreading false whispers and sowing seeds of jealousy and distrust among them. This plan worked so well that soon the Bulls became distant and unfriendly, ultimately avoiding each other and grazing alone. As soon as the Lion noticed this, he attacked them one by one and killed them.
The quarrels of friends are the opportunities of foes.
The fights between friends are chances for enemies.
THE HORSE AND HIS RIDER
A Young Man, who fancied himself something of a horseman, mounted a Horse which had not been properly broken in, and was exceedingly difficult to control. No sooner did the Horse feel his weight in the saddle than he bolted, and nothing would stop him. A friend of the Rider's met him in the road in his headlong career, and called out, "Where are you off to in such a hurry?" To which he, pointing to the Horse, replied, "I've no idea: ask him."
A young man, who thought he was a pretty good horseback rider, got on a horse that hadn't been properly trained and was really hard to control. As soon as the horse felt his weight in the saddle, it took off, and nothing could make it stop. A friend of the rider saw him speeding down the road and yelled, "Where are you going in such a rush?" The rider pointed to the horse and answered, "I have no idea: ask him."
THE GOAT AND THE VINE
A Goat was straying in a vineyard, and began to browse on the tender shoots of a Vine which bore several fine bunches of grapes. "What have I done to you," said the Vine, "that you should harm me thus? Isn't there grass enough for you to feed on? All the same, even if you eat up every leaf I have, and leave me quite bare, I shall produce wine enough to pour over you when you are led to the altar to be sacrificed."
A goat was wandering through a vineyard and started munching on the tender shoots of a vine that had several beautiful bunches of grapes. "What have I done to you?" asked the vine. "Why are you hurting me like this? Isn’t there enough grass for you to eat? Regardless, even if you eat every leaf I have and leave me completely bare, I’ll still produce enough wine to pour over you when you’re taken to the altar for sacrifice."
THE TWO POTS
Two Pots, one of earthenware and the other of brass, were carried away down a river in flood. The Brazen Pot urged his companion to keep close by his side, and he would protect him. The other thanked him, but begged him not to come near him on any account: "For that," he said, "is just what I am most afraid of. One touch from you and I should be broken in pieces."
Two pots, one made of clay and the other made of brass, were swept away by a flood. The brass pot urged his companion to stay close by him, saying he would protect him. The other thanked him but asked him not to come near for any reason: "Because," he said, "that's exactly what I'm most scared of. One touch from you, and I'd be shattered."
Equals make the best friends.
Equals make the best friends.
THE OLD HOUND
A Hound who had served his master well for years, and had run down many a quarry in his time, began to lose his strength and speed owing to age. One day, when out hunting, his master started a powerful wild boar and set the Hound at him. The latter seized the beast by the ear, but his teeth were gone and he could not retain his hold; so the boar escaped. His master began to scold him severely, but the Hound interrupted him with these words: "My will is as strong as ever, master, but my body is old and feeble. You ought to honour me for what I have been instead of abusing me for what I am."
A Hound who had faithfully served his owner for years and had hunted down many prey began to lose his strength and speed due to old age. One day, while they were out hunting, his owner encountered a powerful wild boar and sent the Hound after it. The Hound caught the animal by the ear, but his teeth were gone, and he couldn’t hold on, so the boar got away. His owner started to scold him harshly, but the Hound interrupted him, saying, "My determination is as strong as ever, master, but my body is old and weak. You should respect me for what I have done in the past instead of criticizing me for what I am now."
THE CLOWN AND THE COUNTRYMAN
A Nobleman announced his intention of giving a public entertainment in the theatre, and offered splendid prizes to all who had any novelty to exhibit at the performance. The announcement attracted a crowd of conjurers, jugglers, and acrobats, and among the rest a Clown, very popular with the crowd, who let it be known that he was going to give an entirely new turn. When the day of the performance came, the theatre was filled from top to bottom some time before the entertainment began. Several performers exhibited their tricks, and then the popular favourite came on empty-handed and alone. At once there was a hush of expectation: and he, letting his head fall upon his breast, imitated the squeak of a pig to such perfection that the audience insisted on his producing the animal, which, they said, he must have somewhere concealed about his person. He, however, convinced them that there was no pig there, and then the applause was deafening. Among the spectators was a Countryman, who disparaged the Clown's performance and announced that he would give a much superior exhibition of the same trick on the following day. Again the theatre was filled to overflowing, and again the Clown gave his imitation amidst the cheers of the crowd. The Countryman, meanwhile, before going on the stage, had secreted a young porker under his smock; and when the spectators derisively bade him do better if he could, he gave it a pinch in the ear and made it squeal loudly. But they all with one voice shouted out that the Clown's imitation was much more true to life. Thereupon he produced the pig from under his smock and said sarcastically, "There, that shows what sort of judges you are!"
A nobleman announced that he would host a public performance at the theater and promised great prizes for anyone with something new to show. This drew a crowd of magicians, jugglers, and acrobats, and among them was a Clown who was very popular and claimed he would unveil an entirely new act. When the performance day arrived, the theater was packed well before the show started. Several performers showcased their talents, and then the crowd favorite came on stage empty-handed and alone. A hush fell over the audience as he tilted his head down and made a pig's squeal so convincingly that the audience demanded he bring out the animal, which they thought he must have hidden on him. However, he proved to them there was no pig, and the applause was thunderous. Among the audience was a Countryman who mocked the Clown's act and announced he would give a much better performance of the same trick the next day. Once again, the theater was completely full, and again the Clown performed his imitation to cheers from the crowd. Meanwhile, the Countryman had hidden a young pig under his smock before going on stage; when the audience taunted him to do better, he pinched the pig's ear and made it squeal loudly. But the crowd collectively shouted that the Clown's imitation was much more realistic. The Countryman then revealed the pig from under his smock and sarcastically said, "There, that shows what kind of judges you are!"
THE LARK AND THE FARMER
A Lark nested in a field of corn, and was rearing her brood under cover of the ripening grain. One day, before the young were fully fledged, the Farmer came to look at the crop, and, finding it yellowing fast, he said, "I must send round word to my neighbours to come and help me reap this field." One of the young Larks overheard him, and was very much frightened, and asked her mother whether they hadn't better move house at once. "There's no hurry," replied she; "a man who looks to his friends for help will take his time about a thing." In a few days the Farmer came by again, and saw that the grain was overripe and falling out of the ears upon the ground. "I must put it off no longer," he said; "This very day I'll hire the men and set them to work at once." The Lark heard him and said to her young, "Come, my children, we must be off: he talks no more of his friends now, but is going to take things in hand himself."
A Lark nested in a cornfield and was raising her young under the shelter of the ripening grain. One day, before the chicks were fully fledged, the Farmer came to check on the crop and, seeing it turning yellow quickly, said, "I need to let my neighbors know to come help me harvest this field." One of the young Larks overheard him and got really scared, asking her mother if they should move right away. "There's no rush," her mother replied; "a man who relies on his friends for help will take his time." A few days later, the Farmer came by again and saw that the grain was overripe and falling onto the ground. "I can't put this off any longer," he said; "Today, I'll hire the workers and get them started right away." The Lark heard him and said to her chicks, "Come on, kids, we need to leave: he’s not talking about his friends anymore and is going to take matters into his own hands."
Self-help is the best help.
Self-care is the best care.
THE LION AND THE ASS
A Lion and an Ass set up as partners and went a-hunting together. In course of time they came to a cave in which there were a number of wild goats. The Lion took up his stand at the mouth of the cave, and waited for them to come out; while the Ass went inside and brayed for all he was worth in order to frighten them out into the open. The Lion struck them down one by one as they appeared; and when the cave was empty the Ass came out and said, "Well, I scared them pretty well, didn't I?" "I should think you did," said the Lion: "why, if I hadn't known you were an Ass, I should have turned and run myself."
A Lion and a Donkey teamed up as partners and went hunting together. Eventually, they found a cave full of wild goats. The Lion positioned himself at the entrance of the cave and waited for the goats to come out, while the Donkey went inside and brayed as loudly as he could to scare them into the open. The Lion took them down one by one as they emerged; when the cave was empty, the Donkey came out and said, "Well, I scared them pretty good, didn’t I?" "I guess you did," replied the Lion, "because if I hadn’t known you were a Donkey, I would’ve run away myself."
THE PROPHET
A Prophet sat in the market-place and told the fortunes of all who cared to engage his services. Suddenly there came running up one who told him that his house had been broken into by thieves, and that they had made off with everything they could lay hands on. He was up in a moment, and rushed off, tearing his hair and calling down curses on the miscreants. The bystanders were much amused, and one of them said, "Our friend professes to know what is going to happen to others, but it seems he's not clever enough to perceive what's in store for himself."
A prophet was sitting in the marketplace, offering to tell the fortunes of anyone interested. Suddenly, someone rushed up to him and said that his house had been robbed by thieves, who took everything they could find. He jumped up immediately, ran off, tearing his hair and shouting curses at the criminals. The people nearby found it quite amusing, and one of them remarked, "Our friend claims to know what's going to happen to others, but it looks like he isn’t smart enough to see what's in store for himself."
THE HOUND AND THE HARE
A young Hound started a Hare, and, when he caught her up, would at one moment snap at her with his teeth as though he were about to kill her, while at another he would let go his hold and frisk about her, as if he were playing with another dog. At last the Hare said, "I wish you would show yourself in your true colours! If you are my friend, why do you bite me? If you are my enemy, why do you play with me?"
A young dog chased a rabbit, and when he caught up to her, sometimes he would snap at her like he was about to kill her, while other times he would let her go and play around her like he was just having fun. Finally, the rabbit said, "I wish you would be honest about who you are! If you're my friend, why do you bite me? If you're my enemy, why are you playing with me?"
He is no friend who plays double.
He’s not a friend if he’s two-faced.
THE LION, THE MOUSE, AND THE FOX
A Lion was lying asleep at the mouth of his den when a Mouse ran over his back and tickled him so that he woke up with a start and began looking about everywhere to see what it was that had disturbed him. A Fox, who was looking on, thought he would have a joke at the expense of the Lion; so he said, "Well, this is the first time I've seen a Lion afraid of a Mouse." "Afraid of a Mouse?" said the Lion testily: "not I! It's his bad manners I can't stand."
A Lion was sleeping at the entrance of his den when a Mouse scurried across his back and tickled him, causing him to wake up suddenly and look around to see what had disturbed him. A Fox, watching nearby, decided to make fun of the Lion and said, "Well, this is the first time I've seen a Lion scared of a Mouse." "Scared of a Mouse?" the Lion replied irritably, "Not at all! It's his rudeness that I can't tolerate."
THE TRUMPETER TAKEN PRISONER
A Trumpeter marched into battle in the van of the army and put courage into his comrades by his warlike tunes. Being captured by the enemy, he begged for his life, and said, "Do not put me to death; I have killed no one: indeed, I have no weapons, but carry with me only my trumpet here." But his captors replied, "That is only the more reason why we should take your life; for, though you do not fight yourself, you stir up others to do so."
A Trumpeter marched into battle at the front of the army and inspired his comrades with his battle songs. When he was captured by the enemy, he pleaded for his life, saying, "Please don’t kill me; I haven’t harmed anyone. I don’t have any weapons; I only have my trumpet with me." But his captors replied, "That's even more reason to end your life because, even though you don’t fight yourself, you encourage others to do so."
THE WOLF AND THE CRANE
A Wolf once got a bone stuck in his throat. So he went to a Crane and begged her to put her long bill down his throat and pull it out. "I'll make it worth your while," he added. The Crane did as she was asked, and got the bone out quite easily. The Wolf thanked her warmly, and was just turning away, when she cried, "What about that fee of mine?" "Well, what about it?" snapped the Wolf, baring his teeth as he spoke; "you can go about boasting that you once put your head into a Wolf's mouth and didn't get it bitten off. What more do you want?"
A Wolf once got a bone stuck in his throat. So he went to a Crane and asked her to use her long bill to pull it out. "I'll make it worth your time," he added. The Crane did what he asked and easily removed the bone. The Wolf thanked her sincerely, and just as he was about to leave, she said, "What about my payment?" "What payment?" the Wolf snapped, showing his teeth as he spoke; "You can brag that you once stuck your head in a Wolf's mouth and came out unscathed. What more do you want?"
THE EAGLE, THE CAT, AND THE WILD SOW
An Eagle built her nest at the top of a high tree; a Cat with her family occupied a hollow in the trunk half-way down; and a Wild Sow and her young took up their quarters at the foot. They might have got on very well as neighbours had it not been for the evil cunning of the Cat. Climbing up to the Eagle's nest she said to the Eagle, "You and I are in the greatest possible danger. That dreadful creature, the Sow, who is always to be seen grubbing away at the foot of the tree, means to uproot it, that she may devour your family and mine at her ease." Having thus driven the Eagle almost out of her senses with terror, the Cat climbed down the tree, and said to the Sow, "I must warn you against that dreadful bird, the Eagle. She is only waiting her chance to fly down and carry off one of your little pigs when you take them out, to feed her brood with." She succeeded in frightening the Sow as much as the Eagle. Then she returned to her hole in the trunk, from which, feigning to be afraid, she never came forth by day. Only by night did she creep out unseen to procure food for her kittens. The Eagle, meanwhile was afraid to stir from her nest, and the Sow dared not leave her home among the roots: so that in time both they and their families perished of hunger, and their dead bodies supplied the Cat with ample food for her growing family.
An eagle built her nest at the top of a tall tree; a cat and her family occupied a hollow in the trunk halfway down; and a wild sow and her young took up residence at the bottom. They could have lived together peacefully as neighbors if it weren't for the cat's wicked scheming. Climbing up to the eagle's nest, she said to the eagle, "You and I are in serious danger. That terrible creature, the sow, who is always digging around at the base of the tree, plans to uproot it so she can easily eat your family and mine." Having terrified the eagle almost to madness, the cat climbed down the tree and told the sow, "I need to warn you about that horrible bird, the eagle. She's just waiting for her chance to swoop down and grab one of your piglets when you take them out to feed her chicks." She managed to frighten the sow just as much as the eagle. Then she returned to her hollow in the trunk, where, pretending to be scared, she never came out during the day. Only at night did she sneak out unseen to get food for her kittens. Meanwhile, the eagle was too afraid to leave her nest, and the sow dared not leave her home among the roots. In time, both they and their families starved, and their dead bodies provided the cat with plenty of food for her growing family.
THE WOLF AND THE SHEEP
A Wolf was worried and badly bitten by dogs, and lay a long time for dead. By and by he began to revive, and, feeling very hungry, called out to a passing Sheep and said, "Would you kindly bring me some water from the stream close by? I can manage about meat, if only I could get something to drink." But this Sheep was no fool. "I can quite understand", said he, "that if I brought you the water, you would have no difficulty about the meat. Good-morning."
A Wolf was hurt and badly bitten by dogs, and lay for a long time pretending to be dead. Eventually, he started to recover, and feeling very hungry, called out to a passing Sheep, saying, "Could you please bring me some water from the stream nearby? I can handle the meat if I just have something to drink." But this Sheep was no fool. "I understand," he replied, "that if I bring you the water, you’d have no trouble with the meat. Have a good morning."
THE TUNNY-FISH AND THE DOLPHIN
A Tunny-fish was chased by a Dolphin and splashed through the water at a great rate, but the Dolphin gradually gained upon him, and was just about to seize him when the force of his flight carried the Tunny on to a sandbank. In the heat of the chase the Dolphin followed him, and there they both lay out of the water, gasping for dear life. When the Tunny saw that his enemy was doomed like himself, he said, "I don't mind having to die now: for I see that he who is the cause of my death is about to share the same fate."
A tuna was being chased by a dolphin and was swimming quickly through the water, but the dolphin was gradually catching up. Just as the dolphin was about to catch the tuna, the tuna's speed carried him onto a sandbank. In the heat of the chase, the dolphin followed him, and they both ended up stranded out of the water, gasping for their lives. When the tuna saw that his enemy was in the same predicament, he said, "I don't mind dying now because I see that the one responsible for my death is about to face the same fate."
THE THREE TRADESMEN
The citizens of a certain city were debating about the best material to use in the fortifications which were about to be erected for the greater security of the town. A Carpenter got up and advised the use of wood, which he said was readily procurable and easily worked. A Stone-mason objected to wood on the ground that it was so inflammable, and recommended stones instead. Then a Tanner got on his legs and said, "In my opinion there's nothing like leather."
The people of a certain city were discussing the best material to use for the fortifications that were about to be built to enhance the town's security. A carpenter stood up and suggested using wood, claiming it was easily available and simple to work with. A stonemason disagreed with the carpenter, arguing that wood is highly flammable, and recommended using stone instead. Then a tanner got up and said, "In my opinion, nothing beats leather."
Every man for himself.
Every person for themselves.
THE MOUSE AND THE BULL
A Bull gave chase to a Mouse which had bitten him in the nose: but the Mouse was too quick for him and slipped into a hole in a wall. The Bull charged furiously into the wall again and again until he was tired out, and sank down on the ground exhausted with his efforts. When all was quiet, the Mouse darted out and bit him again. Beside himself with rage he started to his feet, but by that time the Mouse was back in his hole again, and he could do nothing but bellow and fume in helpless anger. Presently he heard a shrill little voice say from inside the wall, "You big fellows don't always have it your own way, you see: sometimes we little ones come off best."
A Bull chased a Mouse that had bitten him on the nose, but the Mouse was too fast and slipped into a hole in the wall. The Bull charged angrily at the wall over and over until he was worn out and collapsed on the ground, exhausted from his efforts. When everything was quiet, the Mouse scurried out and bit him again. Furious, the Bull jumped to his feet, but by then the Mouse was back in his hole, leaving him to bellow and fume in helpless anger. After a moment, he heard a high-pitched voice from inside the wall say, "You big guys don’t always get your way, you know: sometimes us little ones come out on top."
The battle is not always to the strong.
The fight doesn't always go to the strongest.
THE HARE AND THE HOUND
A Hound started a Hare from her form, and pursued her for some distance; but as she gradually gained upon him, he gave up the chase. A rustic who had seen the race met the Hound as he was returning, and taunted him with his defeat. "The little one was too much for you," said he. "Ah, well," said the Hound, "don't forget it's one thing to be running for your dinner, but quite another to be running for your life."
A dog chased a hare that had just jumped out of its hiding spot and followed her for a while; but as the dog started to catch up, it gave up the chase. A farmer who had witnessed the race encountered the dog on its way back and mocked it for losing. "That little one got the better of you," he said. "Well," replied the dog, "remember, it's one thing to be running for your dinner, but quite another to be running for your life."
THE TOWN MOUSE AND THE COUNTRY MOUSE
A Town Mouse and a Country Mouse were acquaintances, and the Country Mouse one day invited his friend to come and see him at his home in the fields. The Town Mouse came, and they sat down to a dinner of barleycorns and roots, the latter of which had a distinctly earthy flavour. The fare was not much to the taste of the guest, and presently he broke out with "My poor dear friend, you live here no better than the ants. Now, you should just see how I fare! My larder is a regular horn of plenty. You must come and stay with me, and I promise you you shall live on the fat of the land." So when he returned to town he took the Country Mouse with him, and showed him into a larder containing flour and oatmeal and figs and honey and dates. The Country Mouse had never seen anything like it, and sat down to enjoy the luxuries his friend provided: but before they had well begun, the door of the larder opened and some one came in. The two Mice scampered off and hid themselves in a narrow and exceedingly uncomfortable hole. Presently, when all was quiet, they ventured out again; but some one else came in, and off they scuttled again. This was too much for the visitor. "Good-bye," said he, "I'm off. You live in the lap of luxury, I can see, but you are surrounded by dangers; whereas at home I can enjoy my simple dinner of roots and corn in peace."
A Town Mouse and a Country Mouse were friends, and one day, the Country Mouse invited his pal to visit him in the fields. The Town Mouse came over, and they sat down to a dinner of grains and roots, which had a distinctly earthy taste. The food wasn’t very appealing to the guest, and soon he exclaimed, "My poor friend, you live here no better than ants. You should see how I eat! My pantry is a treasure trove. You must come and stay with me; I promise you’ll live the good life." So when he went back to town, he took the Country Mouse with him and showed him a pantry filled with flour, oatmeal, figs, honey, and dates. The Country Mouse had never seen anything like it and sat down to enjoy the luxuries his friend offered. However, before they had even started, the pantry door opened, and someone came in. The two Mice quickly ran off and hid in a small, uncomfortable hole. After a bit, when everything was quiet, they came out again, but then someone else came in, and they darted off once more. This was too much for the visitor. "Goodbye," he said, "I’m leaving. You live in luxury, I can see, but you’re surrounded by dangers; while at home, I can enjoy my simple meal of roots and grains in peace."
THE LION AND THE BULL
A Lion saw a fine fat Bull pasturing among a herd of cattle and cast about for some means of getting him into his clutches; so he sent him word that he was sacrificing a sheep, and asked if he would do him the honour of dining with him. The Bull accepted the invitation, but, on arriving at the Lion's den, he saw a great array of saucepans and spits, but no sign of a sheep; so he turned on his heel and walked quietly away. The Lion called after him in an injured tone to ask the reason, and the Bull turned round and said, "I have reason enough. When I saw all your preparations it struck me at once that the victim was to be a Bull and not a sheep."
A Lion spotted a big, fat Bull grazing among a herd of cattle and looked for a way to catch him. He sent a message to the Bull, saying he was sacrificing a sheep and invited him to join the feast. The Bull accepted the invitation, but when he arrived at the Lion's den, he saw a bunch of pots and spits, but no sheep in sight. So, he turned around and walked away. The Lion called out to him, sounding hurt, and asked why he was leaving. The Bull replied, "I have a good reason. When I saw all your preparations, it was clear to me that the victim was going to be a Bull, not a sheep."
The net is spread in vain in sight of the bird.
The net is spread out uselessly in front of the bird.
THE WOLF, THE FOX, AND THE APE
A Wolf charged a Fox with theft, which he denied, and the case was brought before an Ape to be tried. When he had heard the evidence on both sides, the Ape gave judgment as follows: "I do not think," he said, "that you, O Wolf, ever lost what you claim; but all the same I believe that you, Fox, are guilty of the theft, in spite of all your denials."
A Wolf accused a Fox of stealing, which the Fox denied, so the case was taken to an Ape to decide. After hearing the evidence from both sides, the Ape rendered his verdict: "I don't think, Wolf, that you ever lost what you say you did; but still, I believe you, Fox, are guilty of the theft, despite all your denials."
The dishonest get no credit, even if they act honestly.
Dishonest people don't get any credit, even if they behave honestly.
THE EAGLE AND THE COCKS
There were two Cocks in the same farmyard, and they fought to decide who should be master. When the fight was over, the beaten one went and hid himself in a dark corner; while the victor flew up on to the roof of the stables and crowed lustily. But an Eagle espied him from high up in the sky, and swooped down and carried him off. Forthwith the other Cock came out of his corner and ruled the roost without a rival.
There were two roosters in the same farmyard, and they fought to determine who would be in charge. When the fight ended, the loser hid in a dark corner, while the winner flew up to the roof of the barn and crowed proudly. But an eagle saw him from way up in the sky and swooped down to take him away. Immediately, the other rooster emerged from his hiding spot and took over the farm without any competition.
Pride comes before a fall.
Pride goes before a fall.
THE ESCAPED JACKDAW
A Man caught a Jackdaw and tied a piece of string to one of its legs, and then gave it to his children for a pet. But the Jackdaw didn't at all like having to live with people; so, after a while, when he seemed to have become fairly tame and they didn't watch him so closely, he slipped away and flew back to his old haunts. Unfortunately, the string was still on his leg, and before long it got entangled in the branches of a tree and the Jackdaw couldn't get free, try as he would. He saw it was all up with him, and cried in despair, "Alas, in gaining my freedom I have lost my life."
A man caught a jackdaw and tied a piece of string to one of its legs, then gave it to his kids as a pet. But the jackdaw really didn’t like living with people; so, after a while, when he seemed to have become somewhat tame and they didn’t watch him as closely, he slipped away and flew back to his old neighborhood. Unfortunately, the string was still on his leg, and before long it got tangled in the branches of a tree, and the jackdaw couldn’t get free, no matter how hard he tried. He realized it was the end for him and cried out in despair, "Alas, in gaining my freedom I have lost my life."
THE FARMER AND THE FOX
A Farmer was greatly annoyed by a Fox, which came prowling about his yard at night and carried off his fowls. So he set a trap for him and caught him; and in order to be revenged upon him, he tied a bunch of tow to his tail and set fire to it and let him go. As ill-luck would have it, however, the Fox made straight for the fields where the corn was standing ripe and ready for cutting. It quickly caught fire and was all burnt up, and the Farmer lost all his harvest.
A farmer was really annoyed by a fox that kept sneaking into his yard at night and stealing his chickens. So, he set a trap and caught it. To get back at the fox, he tied a bundle of twine to its tail, set it on fire, and let it go. Unfortunately, the fox ran straight to the fields where the corn was ripe and ready to be harvested. It quickly caught fire and burned everything down, resulting in the farmer losing his entire harvest.
Revenge is a two-edged sword.
Revenge is a double-edged sword.
VENUS AND THE CAT
A Cat fell in love with a handsome young man, and begged the goddess Venus to change her into a woman. Venus was very gracious about it, and changed her at once into a beautiful maiden, whom the young man fell in love with at first sight and shortly afterwards married. One day Venus thought she would like to see whether the Cat had changed her habits as well as her form; so she let a mouse run loose in the room where they were. Forgetting everything, the young woman had no sooner seen the mouse than up she jumped and was after it like a shot: at which the goddess was so disgusted that she changed her back again into a Cat.
A Cat fell in love with a handsome young man and asked the goddess Venus to turn her into a woman. Venus kindly granted her request and immediately transformed her into a beautiful maiden, whom the young man instantly fell in love with and soon married. One day, Venus wanted to see if the Cat had changed her habits along with her appearance, so she let a mouse loose in the room where they were. As soon as the young woman spotted the mouse, she jumped up and chased after it like lightning, which disgusted the goddess so much that she turned her back into a Cat.
THE CROW AND THE SWAN
A Crow was filled with envy on seeing the beautiful white plumage of a Swan, and thought it was due to the water in which the Swan constantly bathed and swam. So he left the neighbourhood of the altars, where he got his living by picking up bits of the meat offered in sacrifice, and went and lived among the pools and streams. But though he bathed and washed his feathers many times a day, he didn't make them any whiter, and at last died of hunger into the bargain.
A Crow felt jealous when he saw the beautiful white feathers of a Swan and believed it was because of the water the Swan was always in. So, he left the area near the altars, where he survived by scavenging bits of meat from sacrifices, and moved to live among the ponds and streams. However, even though he bathed and cleaned his feathers several times a day, he couldn't get them any whiter and eventually starved to death as well.
You may change your habits, but not your nature.
You can change your habits, but not your nature.
THE STAG WITH ONE EYE
A Stag, blind of one eye, was grazing close to the sea-shore and kept his sound eye turned towards the land, so as to be able to perceive the approach of the hounds, while the blind eye he turned towards the sea, never suspecting that any danger would threaten him from that quarter. As it fell out, however, some sailors, coasting along the shore, spied him and shot an arrow at him, by which he was mortally wounded. As he lay dying, he said to himself, "Wretch that I am! I bethought me of the dangers of the land, whence none assailed me: but I feared no peril from the sea, yet thence has come my ruin."
A stag, blind in one eye, was grazing near the shoreline and kept his good eye focused on the land to spot any approaching hounds, while he turned his blind eye towards the sea, never suspecting that danger could come from that direction. Unfortunately, some sailors passing by on the shore saw him and shot an arrow, which mortally wounded him. As he lay dying, he thought to himself, "What a fool I am! I worried about the dangers on land, where no one attacked me; but I didn’t fear any threat from the sea, and that's where my destruction came from."
Misfortune often assails us from an unexpected quarter.
Misfortune often hits us from an unexpected direction.
THE FLY AND THE DRAUGHT-MULE
A Fly sat on one of the shafts of a cart and said to the Mule who was pulling it, "How slow you are! Do mend your pace, or I shall have to use my sting as a goad." The Mule was not in the least disturbed. "Behind me, in the cart," said he, "sits my master. He holds the reins, and flicks me with his whip, and him I obey, but I don't want any of your impertinence. _I_ know when I may dawdle and when I may not."
A Fly was perched on one of the shafts of a cart and said to the Mule that was pulling it, "You’re so slow! Pick up the pace, or I'll have to use my sting to motivate you." The Mule wasn’t bothered at all. "Behind me, in the cart," he replied, "is my master. He’s got the reins and flicks me with his whip, and I listen to him, not you. I know when I can take my time and when I can’t."
THE COCK AND THE JEWEL
A Cock, scratching the ground for something to eat, turned up a Jewel that had by chance been dropped there. "Ho!" said he, "a fine thing you are, no doubt, and, had your owner found you, great would his joy have been. But for me! give me a single grain of corn before all the jewels in the world."
A rooster, pecking at the ground for food, came across a jewel that had accidentally been dropped there. "Well!" he said, "you’re certainly something special, and if your owner had found you, he would have been overjoyed. But for me? I'd take a single grain of corn over all the jewels in the world."
THE WOLF AND THE SHEPHERD
A Wolf hung about near a flock of sheep for a long time, but made no attempt to molest them. The Shepherd at first kept a sharp eye on him, for he naturally thought he meant mischief: but as time went by and the Wolf showed no inclination to meddle with the flock, he began to look upon him more as a protector than as an enemy: and when one day some errand took him to the city, he felt no uneasiness at leaving the Wolf with the sheep. But as soon as his back was turned the Wolf attacked them and killed the greater number. When the Shepherd returned and saw the havoc he had wrought, he cried, "It serves me right for trusting my flock to a Wolf."
A Wolf hung around a flock of sheep for a long time but never tried to harm them. The Shepherd initially watched him closely because he naturally thought the Wolf was up to no good. But as time passed and the Wolf showed no signs of bothering the flock, he began to see him more as a protector than an enemy. When one day he had to go to the city for an errand, he felt no worry about leaving the Wolf with the sheep. However, as soon as he turned his back, the Wolf attacked and killed most of them. When the Shepherd came back and saw the destruction, he exclaimed, "I deserve this for trusting a Wolf with my flock."
THE FARMER AND THE STORK
A Farmer set some traps in a field which he had lately sown with corn, in order to catch the cranes which came to pick up the seed. When he returned to look at his traps he found several cranes caught, and among them a Stork, which begged to be let go, and said, "You ought not to kill me: I am not a crane, but a Stork, as you can easily see by my feathers, and I am the most honest and harmless of birds." But the Farmer replied, "It's nothing to me what you are: I find you among these cranes, who ruin my crops, and, like them, you shall suffer."
A farmer set some traps in a field he had just planted with corn to catch the cranes that came to pick up the seeds. When he came back to check his traps, he found several cranes caught, along with a stork, which begged to be released. The stork said, "You shouldn't kill me; I'm not a crane but a stork, as you can clearly see by my feathers. I'm the most honest and harmless of birds." But the farmer replied, "I don't care what you are. I found you among these cranes, who are ruining my crops, and just like them, you'll face the consequences."
If you choose bad companions no one will believe that you are anything but bad yourself.
If you hang out with the wrong people, no one will see you as anything but bad too.
THE CHARGER AND THE MILLER
A Horse, who had been used to carry his rider into battle, felt himself growing old and chose to work in a mill instead. He now no longer found himself stepping out proudly to the beating of the drums, but was compelled to slave away all day grinding the corn. Bewailing his hard lot, he said one day to the Miller, "Ah me! I was once a splendid war-horse, gaily caparisoned, and attended by a groom whose sole duty was to see to my wants. How different is my present condition! I wish I had never given up the battlefield for the mill." The Miller replied with asperity, "It's no use your regretting the past. Fortune has many ups and downs: you must just take them as they come."
A horse, who used to carry his rider into battle, felt himself getting old and decided to work at a mill instead. He no longer stepped out proudly to the sound of drums but was forced to work hard all day grinding grain. Complaining about his tough situation, he said one day to the miller, "Oh, I used to be a magnificent war horse, decked out in fancy gear, with a groom whose only job was to cater to my needs. How different is my life now! I wish I had never traded the battlefield for the mill." The miller replied sharply, "It's no good wishing for the past. Life has its ups and downs; you just have to deal with them as they come."
THE GRASSHOPPER AND THE OWL
An Owl, who lived in a hollow tree, was in the habit of feeding by night and sleeping by day; but her slumbers were greatly disturbed by the chirping of a Grasshopper, who had taken up his abode in the branches. She begged him repeatedly to have some consideration for her comfort, but the Grasshopper, if anything, only chirped the louder. At last the Owl could stand it no longer, but determined to rid herself of the pest by means of a trick. Addressing herself to the Grasshopper, she said in her pleasantest manner, "As I cannot sleep for your song, which, believe me, is as sweet as the notes of Apollo's lyre, I have a mind to taste some nectar, which Minerva gave me the other day. Won't you come in and join me?" The Grasshopper was flattered by the praise of his song, and his mouth, too, watered at the mention of the delicious drink, so he said he would be delighted. No sooner had he got inside the hollow where the Owl was sitting than she pounced upon him and ate him up.
An owl, living in a hollow tree, used to feed at night and sleep during the day; however, her sleep was often interrupted by the chirping of a grasshopper that had made his home in the branches. She repeatedly asked him to be mindful of her comfort, but the grasshopper only chirped louder. Finally, the owl couldn't take it anymore and decided to get rid of the nuisance with a trick. In her friendliest tone, she said to the grasshopper, "Since I can't sleep because of your song, which, believe me, is as sweet as Apollo's lyre, I thought I'd try some nectar that Minerva gave me recently. Why don't you come in and join me?" The grasshopper, flattered by her compliment and intrigued by the mention of the tasty drink, happily agreed. As soon as he got inside the hollow where the owl was sitting, she pounced on him and ate him up.
THE GRASSHOPPER AND THE ANTS
One fine day in winter some Ants were busy drying their store of corn, which had got rather damp during a long spell of rain. Presently up came a Grasshopper and begged them to spare her a few grains, "For," she said, "I'm simply starving." The Ants stopped work for a moment, though this was against their principles. "May we ask," said they, "what you were doing with yourself all last summer? Why didn't you collect a store of food for the winter?" "The fact is," replied the Grasshopper, "I was so busy singing that I hadn't the time." "If you spent the summer singing," replied the Ants, "you can't do better than spend the winter dancing." And they chuckled and went on with their work.
One fine winter day, some Ants were busy drying their stash of corn, which had gotten a bit damp during a long stretch of rain. Soon, a Grasshopper approached and asked them to share a few grains, saying, "I'm really starving." The Ants paused their work for a moment, even though it went against their principles. "Can we ask," they said, "what you were doing all last summer? Why didn't you gather food for the winter?" "Well," the Grasshopper replied, "I was so busy singing that I didn't have the time." "If you spent the summer singing," the Ants replied, "you might as well spend the winter dancing." They laughed and went back to their work.
THE FARMER AND THE VIPER
One winter a Farmer found a Viper frozen and numb with cold, and out of pity picked it up and placed it in his bosom. The Viper was no sooner revived by the warmth than it turned upon its benefactor and inflicted a fatal bite upon him; and as the poor man lay dying, he cried, "I have only got what I deserved, for taking compassion on so villainous a creature."
One winter, a farmer found a viper frozen and numb from the cold. Out of pity, he picked it up and placed it in his coat. As soon as the viper was warmed up, it bit him fatally. As the poor man lay dying, he cried, "I only got what I deserved for showing compassion to such a wicked creature."
Kindness is thrown away upon the evil.
Kindness is wasted on the wicked.
THE TWO FROGS
Two Frogs were neighbours. One lived in a marsh, where there was plenty of water, which frogs love: the other in a lane some distance away, where all the water to be had was that which lay in the ruts after rain. The Marsh Frog warned his friend and pressed him to come and live with him in the marsh, for he would find his quarters there far more comfortable and—what was still more important—more safe. But the other refused, saying that he could not bring himself to move from a place to which he had become accustomed. A few days afterwards a heavy waggon came down the lane, and he was crushed to death under the wheels.
Two frogs lived next to each other. One was in a marsh, where there was plenty of water, which frogs love; the other was in a lane not far away, where the only water available was what collected in the ruts after it rained. The marsh frog warned his friend and urged him to come live in the marsh, saying he would find it much more comfortable and—what was even more important—safer. But the other frog refused, saying he couldn't bring himself to leave a place he was used to. A few days later, a heavy wagon went down the lane, and he was crushed to death under the wheels.
THE COBBLER TURNED DOCTOR
A very unskilful Cobbler, finding himself unable to make a living at his trade, gave up mending boots and took to doctoring instead. He gave out that he had the secret of a universal antidote against all poisons, and acquired no small reputation, thanks to his talent for puffing himself. One day, however, he fell very ill; and the King of the country bethought him that he would test the value of his remedy. Calling, therefore, for a cup, he poured out a dose of the antidote, and, under pretence of mixing poison with it, added a little water, and commanded him to drink it. Terrified by the fear of being poisoned, the Cobbler confessed that he knew nothing about medicine, and that his antidote was worthless. Then the King summoned his subjects and addressed them as follows: "What folly could be greater than yours? Here is this Cobbler to whom no one will send his boots to be mended, and yet you have not hesitated to entrust him with your lives!"
A really unskilled Cobbler, realizing he couldn’t make a living from his trade, stopped fixing boots and started practicing medicine instead. He claimed he had the secret to a universal antidote for all poisons, gaining quite a reputation thanks to his self-promotion skills. However, one day he became very ill; and the King decided to test the effectiveness of his remedy. So, he called for a cup, poured a dose of the antidote, and pretended to mix poison with it by adding a bit of water before commanding the Cobbler to drink it. Terrified of being poisoned, the Cobbler admitted he knew nothing about medicine and that his antidote was useless. The King then called his subjects and addressed them: "What could be more foolish than this? Here’s a Cobbler whom no one sends their boots to for repair, yet you’ve trusted him with your lives!"
THE ASS, THE COCK, AND THE LION
An Ass and a Cock were in a cattle-pen together. Presently a Lion, who had been starving for days, came along and was just about to fall upon the Ass and make a meal of him when the Cock, rising to his full height and flapping his wings vigorously, uttered a tremendous crow. Now, if there is one thing that frightens a Lion, it is the crowing of a Cock: and this one had no sooner heard the noise than he fled. The Ass was mightily elated at this, and thought that, if the Lion couldn't face a Cock, he would be still less likely to stand up to an Ass: so he ran out and pursued him. But when the two had got well out of sight and hearing of the Cock, the Lion suddenly turned upon the Ass and ate him up.
An ass and a rooster were in a cattle pen together. Soon, a lion, who had been starving for days, came by and was about to attack the ass for a meal when the rooster, standing tall and flapping his wings energetically, let out a loud crow. Now, if there's one thing that scares a lion, it's the crowing of a rooster: as soon as the lion heard the sound, he ran away. The ass was very pleased with this and thought that if the lion was afraid of a rooster, he would definitely back down from an ass, so he ran out and chased after the lion. But once they were well out of sight and hearing of the rooster, the lion suddenly turned on the ass and ate him.
False confidence often leads to disaster.
False confidence often leads to failure.
THE BELLY AND THE MEMBERS
The Members of the Body once rebelled against the Belly. "You," they said to the Belly, "live in luxury and sloth, and never do a stroke of work; while we not only have to do all the hard work there is to be done, but are actually your slaves and have to minister to all your wants. Now, we will do so no longer, and you can shift for yourself for the future." They were as good as their word, and left the Belly to starve. The result was just what might have been expected: the whole Body soon began to fail, and the Members and all shared in the general collapse. And then they saw too late how foolish they had been.
The parts of the body once revolted against the stomach. “You,” they said to the stomach, “live in comfort and laziness, never doing any work; while we not only handle all the tough tasks, but we’re actually your servants, catering to all your needs. We’re not doing this anymore, and from now on, you’ll have to take care of yourself.” They kept their promise and left the stomach to fend for itself. As expected, the entire body quickly began to weaken, and the parts all experienced the downfall together. In the end, they realized too late how foolish they had been.
THE BALD MAN AND THE FLY
A Fly settled on the head of a Bald Man and bit him. In his eagerness to kill it, he hit himself a smart slap. But the Fly escaped, and said to him in derision, "You tried to kill me for just one little bite; what will you do to yourself now, for the heavy smack you have just given yourself?" "Oh, for that blow I bear no grudge," he replied, "for I never intended myself any harm; but as for you, you contemptible insect, who live by sucking human blood, I'd have borne a good deal more than that for the satisfaction of dashing the life out of you!"
A fly landed on a bald man’s head and bit him. In his eagerness to swat it, he ended up slapping himself hard. But the fly got away and said mockingly, “You tried to kill me for just one tiny bite; what are you going to do to yourself for that hard smack you just gave yourself?” “Oh, I’m not mad about that hit,” he replied, “because I never meant to hurt myself; but as for you, you worthless insect that survives by sucking human blood, I would have taken a lot more than that just for the satisfaction of ending your life!”
THE ASS AND THE WOLF
An Ass was feeding in a meadow, and, catching sight of his enemy the Wolf in the distance, pretended to be very lame and hobbled painfully along. When the Wolf came up, he asked the Ass how he came to be so lame, and the Ass replied that in going through a hedge he had trodden on a thorn, and he begged the Wolf to pull it out with his teeth, "In case," he said, "when you eat me, it should stick in your throat and hurt you very much." The Wolf said he would, and told the Ass to lift up his foot, and gave his whole mind to getting out the thorn. But the Ass suddenly let out with his heels and fetched the Wolf a fearful kick in the mouth, breaking his teeth; and then he galloped off at full speed. As soon as he could speak the Wolf growled to himself, "It serves me right: my father taught me to kill, and I ought to have stuck to that trade instead of attempting to cure."
An ass was grazing in a meadow when he spotted his enemy, the wolf, in the distance. He pretended to be very lame and hobbled along painfully. When the wolf approached, he asked the ass how he ended up so lame. The ass replied that while passing through a hedge, he had stepped on a thorn and asked the wolf to pull it out with his teeth. "Just in case," he said, "when you eat me, it might get stuck in your throat and hurt you." The wolf agreed and told the ass to lift his foot, focusing entirely on getting out the thorn. But the ass suddenly kicked out with his hind legs and gave the wolf a brutal kick in the mouth, breaking his teeth, and then he bolted away at full speed. Once he could speak, the wolf muttered to himself, "I deserve this: my father taught me to kill, and I should have stuck to that instead of trying to heal."
THE MONKEY AND THE CAMEL
At a gathering of all the beasts the Monkey gave an exhibition of dancing and entertained the company vastly. There was great applause at the finish, which excited the envy of the Camel and made him desire to win the favour of the assembly by the same means. So he got up from his place and began dancing, but he cut such a ridiculous figure as he plunged about, and made such a grotesque exhibition of his ungainly person, that the beasts all fell upon him with ridicule and drove him away.
At a gathering of all the animals, the Monkey put on a dance show and really entertained everyone. There was a lot of cheering at the end, which made the Camel jealous and want to impress the crowd in the same way. So he stood up and started dancing, but he looked so silly as he flailed around and made such a clumsy display of himself that the other animals laughed at him and chased him away.
THE SICK MAN AND THE DOCTOR
A Sick Man received a visit from his Doctor, who asked him how he was. "Fairly well, Doctor," said he, "but I find I sweat a great deal." "Ah," said the Doctor, "that's a good sign." On his next visit he asked the same question, and his patient replied, "I'm much as usual, but I've taken to having shivering fits, which leave me cold all over." "Ah," said the Doctor, "that's a good sign too." When he came the third time and inquired as before about his patient's health, the Sick Man said that he felt very feverish. "A very good sign," said the Doctor; "you are doing very nicely indeed." Afterwards a friend came to see the invalid, and on asking him how he did, received this reply: "My dear friend, I'm dying of good signs."
A Sick Man had a visit from his Doctor, who asked him how he was doing. "I'm doing pretty well, Doctor," he replied, "but I've been sweating a lot." "Ah," said the Doctor, "that's a good sign." During his next visit, he asked the same question, and the patient said, "I'm about the same as usual, but I've started having shivering fits that leave me cold all over." "Ah," said the Doctor, "that's a good sign too." When he came for the third time and inquired again about the patient's health, the Sick Man said he felt very feverish. "That's a very good sign," said the Doctor; "you are doing quite well indeed." Later, a friend came to see the Sick Man, and when he asked how he was, he received this reply: "My dear friend, I'm dying from so many good signs."
THE TRAVELLERS AND THE PLANE-TREE
Two Travellers were walking along a bare and dusty road in the heat of a summer's day. Coming presently to a Plane-tree, they joyfully turned aside to shelter from the burning rays of the sun in the deep shade of its spreading branches. As they rested, looking up into the tree, one of them remarked to his companion, "What a useless tree the Plane is! It bears no fruit and is of no service to man at all." The Plane-tree interrupted him with indignation. "You ungrateful creature!" it cried: "you come and take shelter under me from the scorching sun, and then, in the very act of enjoying the cool shade of my foliage, you abuse me and call me good for nothing!"
Two travelers were walking along a bare, dusty road on a hot summer day. After a while, they came to a plane tree and happily stepped aside to take cover from the scorching sun in the deep shade of its wide branches. As they rested and looked up at the tree, one of them said to his friend, "What a useless tree the plane is! It doesn’t bear any fruit and is completely worthless to people." The plane tree interrupted him angrily. "You ungrateful person!" it exclaimed. "You come and find shelter under me from the blazing sun, and while enjoying the cool shade of my leaves, you insult me and call me useless!"
Many a service is met with ingratitude.
Many services are met with ingratitude.
THE FLEA AND THE OX
A Flea once said to an Ox, "How comes it that a big strong fellow like you is content to serve mankind, and do all their hard work for them, while I, who am no bigger than you see, live on their bodies and drink my fill of their blood, and never do a stroke for it all?" To which the Ox replied, "Men are very kind to me, and so I am grateful to them: they feed and house me well, and every now and then they show their fondness for me by patting me on the head and neck." "They'd pat me, too," said the Flea, "if I let them: but I take good care they don't, or there would be nothing left of me."
A flea once asked an ox, "How is it that a big, strong guy like you is okay with serving humans and doing all their heavy lifting, while I'm so small, yet I live off their bodies and drink their blood without doing anything for it?" The ox replied, "Humans are really nice to me, and I'm grateful to them: they feed and shelter me well, and every now and then they show they care by petting me on the head and neck." The flea responded, "They'd pet me too if I let them, but I make sure they don't, or there'd be nothing left of me."
THE BIRDS, THE BEASTS, AND THE BAT
The Birds were at war with the Beasts, and many battles were fought with varying success on either side. The Bat did not throw in his lot definitely with either party, but when things went well for the Birds he was found fighting in their ranks; when, on the other hand, the Beasts got the upper hand, he was to be found among the Beasts. No one paid any attention to him while the war lasted: but when it was over, and peace was restored, neither the Birds nor the Beasts would have anything to do with so double-faced a traitor, and so he remains to this day a solitary outcast from both.
The Birds were at war with the Beasts, and there were many battles with mixed results for both sides. The Bat didn’t fully commit to either group, but when the Birds were winning, he was seen fighting alongside them; when the Beasts were on top, he was found with them instead. No one noticed him during the war, but when it ended and peace returned, neither the Birds nor the Beasts wanted anything to do with such a two-faced traitor, so he remains a lonely outcast from both to this day.
THE MAN AND HIS TWO SWEETHEARTS
A Man of middle age, whose hair was turning grey, had two Sweethearts, an old woman and a young one. The elder of the two didn't like having a lover who looked so much younger than herself; so, whenever he came to see her, she used to pull the dark hairs out of his head to make him look old. The younger, on the other hand, didn't like him to look so much older than herself, and took every opportunity of pulling out the grey hairs, to make him look young. Between them, they left not a hair in his head, and he became perfectly bald.
A middle-aged man with graying hair had two girlfriends, an older woman and a younger one. The older woman disliked having a partner who looked so much younger than her, so whenever he visited her, she would pull the dark hairs from his head to make him appear older. The younger woman, however, hated that he looked so much older than her and seized every opportunity to pull out the gray hairs to keep him looking young. Between the two of them, he ended up completely bald.
THE EAGLE, THE JACKDAW, AND THE SHEPHERD
One day a Jackdaw saw an Eagle swoop down on a lamb and carry it off in its talons. "My word," said the Jackdaw, "I'll do that myself." So it flew high up into the air, and then came shooting down with a great whirring of wings on to the back of a big ram. It had no sooner alighted than its claws got caught fast in the wool, and nothing it could do was of any use: there it stuck, flapping away, and only making things worse instead of better. By and by up came the Shepherd. "Oho," he said, "so that's what you'd be doing, is it?" And he took the Jackdaw, and clipped its wings and carried it home to his children. It looked so odd that they didn't know what to make of it. "What sort of bird is it, father?" they asked. "It's a Jackdaw," he replied, "and nothing but a Jackdaw: but it wants to be taken for an Eagle."
One day, a Jackdaw saw an Eagle swoop down on a lamb and grab it in its talons. "Wow," said the Jackdaw, "I’ll do that too." So it flew high up into the sky and then came zooming down with a big whir of wings onto the back of a big ram. As soon as it landed, its claws got stuck in the wool, and no matter what it did, it couldn't get free: there it was, flapping around and only making the situation worse. Eventually, the Shepherd showed up. "Aha," he said, "so this is what you’re up to, huh?" He grabbed the Jackdaw, clipped its wings, and took it home to his kids. It looked so strange that they didn’t know what to think. "What kind of bird is it, Dad?" they asked. "It's a Jackdaw," he replied, "and just a Jackdaw: but it wants to be seen as an Eagle."
If you attempt what is beyond your power, your trouble will be wasted and you court not only misfortune but ridicule.
If you try to do something that's beyond your ability, you'll waste your effort and not only invite bad luck but also make a fool of yourself.
THE WOLF AND THE BOY
A Wolf, who had just enjoyed a good meal and was in a playful mood, caught sight of a Boy lying flat upon the ground, and, realising that he was trying to hide, and that it was fear of himself that made him do this, he went up to him and said, "Aha, I've found you, you see; but if you can say three things to me, the truth of which cannot be disputed, I will spare your life." The Boy plucked up courage and thought for a moment, and then he said, "First, it is a pity you saw me; secondly, I was a fool to let myself be seen; and thirdly, we all hate wolves because they are always making unprovoked attacks upon our flocks." The Wolf replied, "Well, what you say is true enough from your point of view; so you may go."
A Wolf, who had just enjoyed a hearty meal and was feeling playful, spotted a Boy lying flat on the ground. Realizing that the Boy was trying to hide out of fear of him, the Wolf approached and said, "Aha, I've found you! But if you can tell me three things that are definitely true, I’ll let you live." The Boy gathered his courage, thought for a moment, then said, "First, it’s unfortunate that you saw me; second, I was an idiot for letting myself be seen; and third, we all despise wolves because they constantly attack our flocks without cause." The Wolf replied, "Well, what you say is true enough from your perspective; so you can go."
THE MILLER, HIS SON, AND THEIR ASS
A Miller, accompanied by his young Son, was driving his Ass to market in hopes of finding a purchaser for him. On the road they met a troop of girls, laughing and talking, who exclaimed, "Did you ever see such a pair of fools? To be trudging along the dusty road when they might be riding!" The Miller thought there was sense in what they said;
A miller, along with his young son, was taking his donkey to the market, hoping to sell it. On their way, they encountered a group of girls who were laughing and chatting. They shouted, "Have you ever seen such a pair of fools? Walking along the dusty road when you could be riding!" The miller thought there was some truth in what they said;
THE STAG AND THE VINE
A Stag, pursued by the huntsmen, concealed himself under cover of a thick Vine. They lost track of him and passed by his hiding-place without being aware that he was anywhere near. Supposing all danger to be over, he presently began to browse on the leaves of the Vine. The movement drew the attention of the returning huntsmen, and one of them, supposing some animal to be hidden there, shot an arrow at a venture into the foliage. The unlucky Stag was pierced to the heart, and, as he expired, he said, "I deserve my fate for my treachery in feeding upon the leaves of my protector."
A stag, chased by hunters, hid under a thick vine. They lost track of him and passed his hiding spot without realizing he was close by. Thinking all danger had passed, he started to munch on the vine's leaves. This movement caught the attention of the returning hunters, and one of them, guessing that some animal was hidden there, shot an arrow into the foliage. The unfortunate stag was struck in the heart, and as he died, he said, "I deserve this fate for betraying the one who protected me by feeding on its leaves."
Ingratitude sometimes brings its own punishment.
Ingratitude can sometimes lead to its own consequences.
THE LAMB CHASED BY A WOLF
A Wolf was chasing a Lamb, which took refuge in a temple. The Wolf urged it to come out of the precincts, and said, "If you don't, the priest is sure to catch you and offer you up in sacrifice on the altar." To which the Lamb replied, "Thanks, I think I'll stay where I am: I'd rather be sacrificed any day than be eaten up by a Wolf."
A Wolf was chasing a Lamb, which took refuge in a temple. The Wolf urged it to come out, saying, "If you don't, the priest will certainly catch you and sacrifice you on the altar." The Lamb replied, "Thanks, but I think I'll stay here: I'd rather be sacrificed any day than be eaten by a Wolf."
THE ARCHER AND THE LION
An Archer went up into the hills to get some sport with his bow, and all the animals fled at the sight of him with the exception of the Lion, who stayed behind and challenged him to fight. But he shot an arrow at the Lion and hit him, and said, "There, you see what my messenger can do: just you wait a moment and I'll tackle you myself." The Lion, however, when he felt the sting of the arrow, ran away as fast as his legs could carry him. A fox, who had seen it all happen, said to the Lion, "Come, don't be a coward: why don't you stay and show fight?" But the Lion replied, "You won't get me to stay, not you: why, when he sends a messenger like that before him, he must himself be a terrible fellow to deal with."
An archer went up into the hills to have some fun with his bow, and all the animals ran away when they saw him, except for the lion, who stayed behind and challenged him to a fight. But the archer shot an arrow at the lion and hit him, saying, "See what my messenger can do? Just wait a moment and I’ll take you on myself." However, when the lion felt the sting of the arrow, he ran away as fast as he could. A fox, who had seen everything that happened, said to the lion, "Come on, don't be a coward: why don't you stay and fight?" But the lion replied, "You won't catch me sticking around: when he sends a messenger like that, he must be a really tough opponent to deal with."
Give a wide berth to those who can do damage at a distance.
Stay away from those who can hurt you from afar.
THE WOLF AND THE GOAT
A Wolf caught sight of a Goat browsing above him on the scanty herbage that grew on the top of a steep rock; and being unable to get at her, tried to induce her to come lower down. "You are risking your life up there, madam, indeed you are," he called out: "pray take my advice and come down here, where you will find plenty of better food." The Goat turned a knowing eye upon him. "It's little you care whether I get good grass or bad," said she: "what you want is to eat me."
A Wolf saw a Goat grazing above him on the sparse grass that grew on top of a steep rock, and since he couldn't reach her, he tried to persuade her to come down. "You're putting your life in danger up there, ma'am, really you are," he shouted. "Please take my advice and come down here, where you'll find plenty of better food." The Goat gave him a skeptical look. "You couldn't care less if I found good grass or bad," she replied. "What you really want is to eat me."
THE SICK STAG
A Stag fell sick and lay in a clearing in the forest, too weak to move from the spot. When the news of his illness spread, a number of the other beasts came to inquire after his health, and they one and all nibbled a little of the grass that grew round the invalid till at last there was not a blade within his reach. In a few days he began to mend, but was still too feeble to get up and go in search of fodder; and thus he perished miserably of hunger owing to the thoughtlessness of his friends.
A stag got sick and lay down in a clearing in the forest, too weak to get up. When the news of his illness spread, several other animals came to check on him, and they all nibbled on the grass around the sick stag until there wasn’t a single blade within his reach. After a few days, he started to recover, but he was still too weak to get up and look for food; as a result, he died painfully from hunger because of his friends' carelessness.
THE ASS AND THE MULE
A certain man who had an Ass and a Mule loaded them both up one day and set out upon a journey. So long as the road was fairly level, the Ass got on very well: but by and by they came to a place among the hills where the road was very rough and steep, and the Ass was at his last gasp. So he begged the Mule to relieve him of a part of his load: but the Mule refused. At last, from sheer weariness, the Ass stumbled and fell down a steep place and was killed. The driver was in despair, but he did the best he could: he added the Ass's load to the Mule's, and he also flayed the Ass and put his skin on the top of the double load. The Mule could only just manage the extra weight, and, as he staggered painfully along, he said to himself, "I have only got what I deserved: if I had been willing to help the Ass at first, I should not now be carrying his load and his skin into the bargain."
A man had a Donkey and a Mule, and one day he loaded them both up and set off on a journey. As long as the road was relatively flat, the Donkey managed fine. But soon they reached a rough and steep area in the hills, and the Donkey was exhausted. He asked the Mule to help share some of his load, but the Mule refused. Eventually, from pure fatigue, the Donkey stumbled and fell down a steep slope and was killed. The driver was heartbroken, but he did the best he could: he added the Donkey's load to the Mule's and skinned the Donkey, placing its skin on top of the heavy load. The Mule could barely handle the extra weight, and as he struggled to move forward, he thought to himself, "I’m only getting what I deserve: if I had been willing to help the Donkey in the beginning, I wouldn’t be carrying his load and his skin too."
BROTHER AND SISTER
A certain man had two children, a boy and a girl: and the boy was as good-looking as the girl was plain. One day, as they were playing together in their mother's chamber, they chanced upon a mirror and saw their own features for the first time. The boy saw what a handsome fellow he was, and began to boast to his Sister about his good looks: she, on her part, was ready to cry with vexation when she was aware of her plainness, and took his remarks as an insult to herself. Running to her father, she told him of her Brother's conceit, and accused him of meddling with his mother's things. He laughed and kissed them both, and said, "My children, learn from now onwards to make a good use of the glass. You, my boy, strive to be as good as it shows you to be handsome; and you, my girl, resolve to make up for the plainness of your features by the sweetness of your disposition."
A man had two kids, a boy and a girl. The boy was as handsome as the girl was plain. One day, while they were playing in their mom's room, they found a mirror and saw their faces for the first time. The boy noticed how good-looking he was and started bragging to his sister about it. She, feeling upset about her plainness, took his comments as an insult. She ran to their dad to tell him about her brother's arrogance and accused him of messing with their mother's things. He laughed, kissed them both, and said, "My kids, from now on, learn to use the mirror wisely. You, my son, should aim to be as good as you are handsome; and you, my daughter, should make up for your plain looks with a sweet personality."
THE HEIFER AND THE OX
A Heifer went up to an Ox, who was straining hard at the plough, and sympathised with him in a rather patronising sort of way on the necessity of his having to work so hard. Not long afterwards there was a festival in the village and every one kept holiday: but, whereas the Ox was turned loose into the pasture, the Heifer was seized and led off to sacrifice. "Ah," said the Ox, with a grim smile, "I see now why you were allowed to have such an idle time: it was because you were always intended for the altar."
A heifer approached an ox, who was working hard at the plow, and condescended to him about how tough it must be for him to work so intensely. Shortly after, there was a festival in the village and everyone took the day off; however, while the ox was let loose in the pasture, the heifer was captured and taken away for a sacrifice. "Ah," said the ox with a wry smile, "I understand now why you got to enjoy your time off: it was because you were always meant for the altar."
THE KINGDOM OF THE LION
When the Lion reigned over the beasts of the earth he was never cruel or tyrannical, but as gentle and just as a King ought to be. During his reign he called a general assembly of the beasts, and drew up a code of laws under which all were to live in perfect equality and harmony: the wolf and the lamb, the tiger and the stag, the leopard and the kid, the dog and the hare, all should dwell side by side in unbroken peace and friendship. The hare said, "Oh! how I have longed for this day when the weak take their place without fear by the side of the strong!"
When the Lion ruled over the animals of the earth, he was never cruel or oppressive, but as kind and fair as a King should be. During his reign, he called a general meeting of the animals and created a set of laws that everyone would follow to live in complete equality and harmony: the wolf and the lamb, the tiger and the deer, the leopard and the goat, the dog and the rabbit, all should live together in unbroken peace and friendship. The rabbit said, "Oh! how I've longed for this day when the weak can stand beside the strong without fear!"
THE ASS AND HIS DRIVER
An Ass was being driven down a mountain road, and after jogging along for a while sensibly enough he suddenly quitted the track and rushed to the edge of a precipice. He was just about to leap over the edge when his Driver caught hold of his tail and did his best to pull him back: but pull as he might he couldn't get the Ass to budge from the brink. At last he gave up, crying, "All right, then, get to the bottom your own way; but it's the way to sudden death, as you'll find out quick enough."
An donkey was being led down a mountain road, and after moving along sensibly for a while, he suddenly abandoned the path and dashed toward the edge of a cliff. He was just about to jump off when his handler grabbed his tail and tried his hardest to pull him back. No matter how much he pulled, he couldn't get the donkey to move from the edge. Finally, he gave up and shouted, "Fine, go ahead and fall to the bottom your own way; but you'll find out it's a quick route to your own demise."
THE LION AND THE HARE
A Lion found a Hare sleeping in her form, and was just going to devour her when he caught sight of a passing stag. Dropping the Hare, he at once made for the bigger game; but finding, after a long chase, that he could not overtake the stag, he abandoned the attempt and came back for the Hare. When he reached the spot, however, he found she was nowhere to be seen, and he had to go without his dinner. "It serves me right," he said; "I should have been content with what I had got, instead of hankering after a better prize."
A lion found a hare sleeping and was just about to eat her when he spotted a passing stag. He dropped the hare and went after the bigger prey, but after a long chase, he realized he couldn't catch the stag, so he gave up and returned for the hare. When he got back, though, he found she was gone and he had to go without dinner. "Serves me right," he said; "I should have been happy with what I had instead of wanting something better."
THE WOLVES AND THE DOGS
Once upon a time the Wolves said to the Dogs, "Why should we continue to be enemies any longer? You are very like us in most ways: the main difference between us is one of training only. We live a life of freedom; but you are enslaved to mankind, who beat you, and put heavy collars round your necks, and compel you to keep watch over their flocks and herds for them, and, to crown all, they give you nothing but bones to eat. Don't put up with it any longer, but hand over the flocks to us, and we will all live on the fat of the land and feast together." The Dogs allowed themselves to be persuaded by these words, and accompanied the Wolves into their den. But no sooner were they well inside than the Wolves set upon them and tore them to pieces.
Once upon a time, the Wolves said to the Dogs, "Why should we keep being enemies? You’re really similar to us in many ways: the main difference is just how we were raised. We live freely, while you’re stuck serving humans, who hit you and make you wear heavy collars, forcing you to look after their flocks and herds. And to top it off, they only give you bones to eat. Don’t put up with it any longer; give us the flocks, and we can all enjoy a life of plenty and feast together." The Dogs were convinced by this and followed the Wolves into their den. But as soon as they were inside, the Wolves attacked and tore them apart.
Traitors richly deserve their fate.
Traitors deserve their fate.
THE BULL AND THE CALF
A full-grown Bull was struggling to force his huge bulk through the narrow entrance to a cow-house where his stall was, when a young Calf came up and said to him, "If you'll step aside a moment, I'll show you the way to get through." The Bull turned upon him an amused look. "I knew that way," said he, "before you were born."
A full-grown bull was trying to squeeze his large body through the narrow entrance to the cowhouse where his stall was, when a young calf approached him and said, "If you step aside for a moment, I can show you how to get through." The bull looked at him with amusement. "I already knew that way," he replied, "before you were even born."
THE TREES AND THE AXE
A Woodman went into the forest and begged of the Trees the favour of a handle for his Axe. The principal Trees at once agreed to so modest a request, and unhesitatingly gave him a young ash sapling, out of which he fashioned the handle he desired. No sooner had he done so than he set to work to fell the noblest Trees in the wood. When they saw the use to which he was putting their gift, they cried, "Alas! alas! We are undone, but we are ourselves to blame. The little we gave has cost us all: had we not sacrificed the rights of the ash, we might ourselves have stood for ages."
A Woodman went into the forest and asked the Trees for a favor: a handle for his Axe. The main Trees quickly agreed to such a humble request and willingly gave him a young ash sapling, which he used to make the handle he wanted. As soon as he finished, he started chopping down the strongest Trees in the forest. When they saw how he was using their gift, they lamented, "Oh no! We are done for, but it's our own fault. The small thing we gave has cost us everything: if we hadn’t sacrificed the rights of the ash, we could have stood for ages."
THE ASTRONOMER
There was once an Astronomer whose habit it was to go out at night and observe the stars. One night, as he was walking about outside the town gates, gazing up absorbed into the sky and not looking where he was going, he fell into a dry well. As he lay there groaning, some one passing by heard him, and, coming to the edge of the well, looked down and, on learning what had happened, said, "If you really mean to say that you were looking so hard at the sky that you didn't even see where your feet were carrying you along the ground, it appears to me that you deserve all you've got."
There was once an astronomer who had a habit of going out at night to watch the stars. One night, while he was wandering outside the town gates, completely absorbed in the night sky and not paying attention to where he was going, he fell into a dry well. As he lay there groaning, someone passing by heard him and came to the edge of the well. Looking down, the person said, "If you're telling me you were so focused on the sky that you didn't even notice where you were stepping, it seems to me you got what you deserved."
THE LABOURER AND THE SNAKE
A Labourer's little son was bitten by a Snake and died of the wound. The father was beside himself with grief, and in his anger against the Snake he caught up an axe and went and stood close to the Snake's hole, and watched for a chance of killing it. Presently the Snake came out, and the man aimed a blow at it, but only succeeded in cutting off the tip of its tail before it wriggled in again. He then tried to get it to come out a second time, pretending that he wished to make up the quarrel. But the Snake said, "I can never be your friend because of my lost tail, nor you mine because of your lost child."
A laborer's young son was bitten by a snake and died from the wound. The father was overwhelmed with grief, and in his anger toward the snake, he grabbed an axe and stood near the snake's hole, waiting for a chance to kill it. Soon, the snake came out, and the man swung at it, but only managed to cut off the end of its tail before it quickly slithered back in. He then tried to lure it out again, pretending he wanted to make amends. But the snake said, "I can never be your friend because of my lost tail, and you'll never be mine because of your lost child."
Injuries are never forgotten in the presence of those who caused them.
Injuries are always remembered when you're around the people who caused them.
THE CAGE-BIRD AND THE BAT
A Singing-bird was confined in a cage which hung outside a window, and had a way of singing at night when all other birds were asleep. One night a Bat came and clung to the bars of the cage, and asked the Bird why she was silent by day and sang only at night. "I have a very good reason for doing so," said the Bird: "it was once when I was singing in the daytime that a fowler was attracted by my voice, and set his nets for me and caught me. Since then I have never sung except by night." But the Bat replied, "It is no use your doing that now when you are a prisoner: if only you had done so before you were caught, you might still have been free."
A singing bird was trapped in a cage outside a window, and she usually sang at night when all the other birds were asleep. One night, a bat came and clung to the bars of the cage, asking the bird why she was quiet during the day and only sang at night. "I have a very good reason for that," said the bird. "Once, when I was singing during the day, a hunter heard me and set his traps to catch me. Since then, I've only sung at night." But the bat replied, "It's pointless to do that now that you're a prisoner. If you had done that before you got caught, you might still be free."
Precautions are useless after the event.
Precautions don't help after something has happened.
THE ASS AND HIS PURCHASER
A Man who wanted to buy an Ass went to market, and, coming across a likely-looking beast, arranged with the owner that he should be allowed to take him home on trial to see what he was like. When he reached home, he put him into his stable along with the other asses. The newcomer took a look round, and immediately went and chose a place next to the laziest and greediest beast in the stable. When the master saw this he put a halter on him at once, and led him off and handed him over to his owner again. The latter was a good deal surprised to see him back so soon, and said, "Why, do you mean to say you have tested him already?" "I don't want to put him through any more tests," replied the other: "I could see what sort of beast he is from the companion he chose for himself."
A man who wanted to buy a donkey went to the market and found a donkey that seemed good. He made an arrangement with the owner to take it home on trial to see how it was. When he got home, he placed it in his stable with the other donkeys. The new donkey looked around and immediately chose to stand next to the laziest and greediest donkey in the stable. When the owner saw this, he quickly put a halter on it, took it back, and returned it to the owner. The owner was quite surprised to see it back so soon and asked, "You mean you’ve already tested it?" "I don’t need to test it any further," the man replied, "I could tell what kind of donkey it was by the company it chose."
A man is known by the company he keeps.
A person is judged by the company they keep.
THE KID AND THE WOLF
A Kid strayed from the flock and was chased by a Wolf. When he saw he must be caught he turned round and said to the Wolf, "I know, sir, that I can't escape being eaten by you: and so, as my life is bound to be short, I pray you let it be as merry as may be. Will you not play me a tune to dance to before I die?" The Wolf saw no objection to having some music before his dinner: so he took out his pipe and began to play, while the Kid danced before him. Before many minutes were passed the gods who guarded the flock heard the sound and came up to see what was going on. They no sooner clapped eyes on the Wolf than they gave chase and drove him away. As he ran off, he turned and said to the Kid, "It's what I thoroughly deserve: my trade is the butcher's, and I had no business to turn piper to please you."
A kid wandered away from the herd and was chased by a wolf. When he realized he couldn't escape being eaten, he turned to the wolf and said, "I know I won't escape you: so, since my life is going to be short, I ask you to let it be as joyful as possible. Will you play me a tune to dance to before I die?" The wolf saw no reason not to enjoy some music before his meal, so he took out his pipe and started to play while the kid danced. Before long, the gods who watched over the flock heard the music and came to see what was happening. As soon as they spotted the wolf, they chased him off. As he was fleeing, he turned to the kid and said, "I brought this on myself: my job is to be a butcher, and I shouldn't have tried to be a piper just to entertain you."
THE DEBTOR AND HIS SOW
A Man of Athens fell into debt and was pressed for the money by his creditor; but he had no means of paying at the time, so he begged for delay. But the creditor refused and said he must pay at once. Then the Debtor fetched a Sow—the only one he had—and took her to market to offer her for sale. It happened that his creditor was there too. Presently a buyer came along and asked if the Sow produced good litters. "Yes," said the Debtor, "very fine ones; and the remarkable thing is that she produces females at the Mysteries and males at the Panathenea." (Festivals these were: and the Athenians always sacrifice a sow at one, and a boar at the other; while at the Dionysia they sacrifice a kid.) At that the creditor, who was standing by, put in, "Don't be surprised, sir; why, still better, at the Dionysia this Sow has kids!"
A man from Athens fell into debt and was being pushed by his creditor for money. Since he couldn’t pay at the moment, he asked for more time. But the creditor refused and insisted he pay immediately. So, the debtor went and got his only pig and took her to the market to sell. It just so happened that his creditor was there too. Shortly after, a buyer came by and asked if the pig had good litters. "Yes," said the debtor, "very good ones; and interestingly, she gives birth to females during the Mysteries and males during the Panathenaea." (These were festivals where the Athenians always sacrificed a sow at one and a boar at the other; meanwhile, at the Dionysia, they sacrificed a kid.) Hearing this, the creditor chimed in, "Don’t be surprised, sir; even better, at the Dionysia, this pig has kids!"
THE BALD HUNTSMAN
A Man who had lost all his hair took to wearing a wig, and one day he went out hunting. It was blowing rather hard at the time, and he hadn't gone far before a gust of wind caught his hat and carried it off, and his wig too, much to the amusement of the hunt. But he quite entered into the joke, and said, "Ah, well! the hair that wig is made of didn't stick to the head on which it grew; so it's no wonder it won't stick to mine."
A man who had lost all his hair started wearing a wig, and one day he went out hunting. It was pretty windy, and he hadn't gone far when a gust of wind blew off his hat and his wig, much to the amusement of the people hunting with him. But he went along with the joke and said, "Oh well! The hair that wig is made from didn't stay on the head it came from, so it’s no surprise it won’t stay on mine."
THE HERDSMAN AND THE LOST BULL
A Herdsman was tending his cattle when he missed a young Bull, one of the finest of the herd. He went at once to look for him, but, meeting with no success in his search, he made a vow that, if he should discover the thief, he would sacrifice a calf to Jupiter. Continuing his search, he entered a thicket, where he presently espied a lion devouring the lost Bull. Terrified with fear, he raised his hands to heaven and cried, "Great Jupiter, I vowed I would sacrifice a calf to thee if I should discover the thief: but now a full-grown Bull I promise thee if only I myself escape unhurt from his clutches."
A herdsman was taking care of his cattle when he noticed that a young bull, one of the best in the herd, was missing. He immediately went to search for it, but when he found no sign of success, he promised that if he found the thief, he would sacrifice a calf to Jupiter. As he continued his search, he entered a thicket and soon spotted a lion eating the lost bull. Filled with fear, he raised his hands to the sky and exclaimed, "Great Jupiter, I promised I would sacrifice a calf to you if I found the thief: but now I vow a full-grown bull if only I can escape unscathed from his grasp."
THE MULE
One morning a Mule, who had too much to eat and too little to do, began to think himself a very fine fellow indeed, and frisked about saying, "My father was undoubtedly a high-spirited horse and I take after him entirely." But very soon afterwards he was put into the harness and compelled to go a very long way with a heavy load behind him. At the end of the day, exhausted by his unusual exertions, he said dejectedly to himself, "I must have been mistaken about my father; he can only have been an ass after all."
One morning, a Mule, who had eaten too much and had too little to do, started to think of himself as quite impressive and danced around saying, "My dad was definitely a spirited horse, and I totally take after him." But not long after, he was hitched up and forced to pull a heavy load for a long distance. By the end of the day, worn out from his unexpected effort, he said sadly to himself, "I must have been wrong about my dad; he must have just been a donkey after all."
THE HOUND AND THE FOX
A Hound, roaming in the forest, spied a lion, and being well used to lesser game, gave chase, thinking he would make a fine quarry. Presently the lion perceived that he was being pursued; so, stopping short, he rounded on his pursuer and gave a loud roar. The Hound immediately turned tail and fled. A Fox, seeing him running away, jeered at him and said, "Ho! ho! There goes the coward who chased a lion and ran away the moment he roared!"
A dog was wandering in the forest when he spotted a lion. Accustomed to chasing smaller animals, he decided to pursue it, thinking it would be an impressive catch. Soon, the lion noticed he was being hunted, so he stopped, turned around, and let out a loud roar. The dog quickly turned and ran away. A fox, seeing the dog flee, mocked him, saying, "Look at that coward who thought he could chase a lion and took off the moment it roared!"
THE FATHER AND HIS DAUGHTERS
A Man had two Daughters, one of whom he gave in marriage to a gardener, and the other to a potter. After a time he thought he would go and see how they were getting on; and first he went to the gardener's wife. He asked her how she was, and how things were going with herself and her husband. She replied that on the whole they were doing very well: "But," she continued, "I do wish we could have some good heavy rain: the garden wants it badly." Then he went on to the potter's wife and made the same inquiries of her. She replied that she and her husband had nothing to complain of: "But," she went on, "I do wish we could have some nice dry weather, to dry the pottery." Her Father looked at her with a humorous expression on his face. "You want dry weather," he said, "and your sister wants rain. I was going to ask in my prayers that your wishes should be granted; but now it strikes me I had better not refer to the subject."
A man had two daughters, one of whom he married off to a gardener and the other to a potter. After some time, he decided to check in on them. First, he visited the gardener's wife. He asked how she was doing and how things were with her and her husband. She replied that overall, they were doing very well, but she added, "I really wish we could get some good, heavy rain; the garden really needs it." Then he went to see the potter's wife and asked the same questions. She said that she and her husband had no complaints, but then she added, "I wish we could have some nice dry weather to help with the pottery." The father looked at her with a playful expression on his face. "You want dry weather," he said, "and your sister wants rain. I was planning to pray for your wishes to be fulfilled, but now it seems I should just avoid bringing it up."
THE THIEF AND THE INNKEEPER
A Thief hired a room at an inn, and stayed there some days on the look-out for something to steal. No opportunity, however, presented itself, till one day, when there was a festival to be celebrated, the Innkeeper appeared in a fine new coat and sat down before the door of the inn for an airing. The Thief no sooner set eyes upon the coat than he longed to get possession of it. There was no business doing, so he went and took a seat by the side of the Innkeeper, and began talking to him. They conversed together for some time, and then the Thief suddenly yawned and howled like a wolf. The Innkeeper asked him in some concern what ailed him. The Thief replied, "I will tell you about myself, sir, but first I must beg you to take charge of my clothes for me, for I intend to leave them with you. Why I have these fits of yawning I cannot tell: maybe they are sent as a punishment for my misdeeds; but, whatever the reason, the facts are that when I have yawned three times I become a ravening wolf and fly at men's throats." As he finished speaking he yawned a second time and howled again as before. The Innkeeper, believing every word he said, and terrified at the prospect of being confronted with a wolf, got up hastily and started to run indoors; but the Thief caught him by the coat and tried to stop him, crying, "Stay, sir, stay, and take charge of my clothes, or else I shall never see them again." As he spoke he opened his mouth and began to yawn for the third time. The Innkeeper, mad with the fear of being eaten by a wolf, slipped out of his coat, which remained in the other's hands, and bolted into the inn and locked the door behind him; and the Thief then quietly stole off with his spoil.
A thief rented a room at an inn and stayed there for a few days, looking for something to steal. However, no opportunity came up until one day, during a festival, the innkeeper showed up wearing a nice new coat and sat by the door to enjoy the fresh air. As soon as the thief saw the coat, he wanted it badly. With no other business to attend to, he sat down next to the innkeeper and started chatting with him. They talked for a while, and then the thief suddenly yawned and howled like a wolf. Concerned, the innkeeper asked what was wrong. The thief replied, "I'll explain, but first, I need you to hold onto my clothes for me, as I plan to leave them with you. I can't tell you why I keep yawning—maybe it's a punishment for my past misdeeds—but the fact is, when I yawn three times, I turn into a ravenous wolf and attack." After finishing his sentence, he yawned again and howled once more. The innkeeper, believing every word, panicked at the thought of facing a wolf, jumped up, and tried to run inside. But the thief grabbed his coat in an attempt to stop him, saying, "Wait, sir, hold my clothes, or I might never see them again." With that, he opened his mouth to yawn for the third time. The innkeeper, terrified of being eaten by a wolf, quickly slipped out of his coat, leaving it in the thief's hands, and dashed into the inn, locking the door behind him. The thief then calmly walked away with his prize.
THE PACK-ASS AND THE WILD ASS
A Wild Ass, who was wandering idly about, one day came upon a Pack-Ass lying at full length in a sunny spot and thoroughly enjoying himself. Going up to him, he said, "What a lucky beast you are! Your sleek coat shows how well you live: how I envy you!" Not long after the Wild Ass saw his acquaintance again, but this time he was carrying a heavy load, and his driver was following behind and beating him with a thick stick. "Ah, my friend," said the Wild Ass, "I don't envy you any more: for I see you pay dear for your comforts."
A Wild Donkey, who was wandering around aimlessly, one day came across a Pack Donkey lounging in a sunny spot and really enjoying himself. Approaching him, he said, "What a lucky animal you are! Your shiny coat shows how well you’re taken care of: I can’t help but envy you!" Not long after, the Wild Donkey saw his acquaintance again, but this time he was carrying a heavy load, and his handler was following behind, beating him with a thick stick. "Ah, my friend," said the Wild Donkey, "I don’t envy you anymore: I see you pay a high price for your comforts."
Advantages that are dearly bought are doubtful blessings.
Advantages that come at a high cost are questionable blessings.
THE ASS AND HIS MASTERS
A Gardener had an Ass which had a very hard time of it, what with scanty food, heavy loads, and constant beating. The Ass therefore begged Jupiter to take him away from the Gardener and hand him over to another master. So Jupiter sent Mercury to the Gardener to bid him sell the Ass to a Potter, which he did. But the Ass was as discontented as ever, for he had to work harder than before: so he begged Jupiter for relief a second time, and Jupiter very obligingly arranged that he should be sold to a Tanner. But when the Ass saw what his new master's trade was, he cried in despair, "Why wasn't I content to serve either of my former masters, hard as I had to work and badly as I was treated? for they would have buried me decently, but now I shall come in the end to the tanning-vat."
A Gardener had a Donkey that had a really tough life, with little food, heavy loads, and constant whipping. The Donkey asked Jupiter to set him free from the Gardener and give him to a different owner. So Jupiter sent Mercury to the Gardener to tell him to sell the Donkey to a Potter, which he did. But the Donkey was just as unhappy as before, because he had to work even harder: so he asked Jupiter for help again, and Jupiter kindly arranged for him to be sold to a Tanner. But when the Donkey saw what his new owner's job was, he cried out in despair, "Why wasn't I satisfied serving either of my previous masters, no matter how hard I had to work and poorly I was treated? They would have given me a decent burial, but now I’m going to end up in the tanning vat."
Servants don't know a good master till they have served a worse.
Servants don't recognize a good boss until they've worked for a worse one.
THE PACK-ASS, THE WILD ASS, AND THE LION
A Wild Ass saw a Pack-Ass jogging along under a heavy load, and taunted him with the condition of slavery in which he lived, in these words: "What a vile lot is yours compared with mine! I am free as the air, and never do a stroke of work; and, as for fodder, I have only to go to the hills and there I find far more than enough for my needs. But you! you depend on your master for food, and he makes you carry heavy loads every day and beats you unmercifully." At that moment a Lion appeared on the scene, and made no attempt to molest the Pack-Ass owing to the presence of the driver; but he fell upon the Wild Ass, who had no one to protect him, and without more ado made a meal of him.
A Wild Donkey saw a Pack Donkey jogging along under a heavy load and mocked him for the kind of life he led, saying, "What a miserable life you have compared to mine! I’m free as the wind and never do any work; when it comes to food, I just head to the hills and find way more than I need. But you! You rely on your owner for meals, carry heavy loads every day, and get beaten mercilessly." Just then, a Lion appeared and didn’t bother the Pack Donkey because the driver was there, but he attacked the Wild Donkey, who had no one to protect him, and without hesitation, made a meal of him.
It is no use being your own master unless you can stand up for yourself.
It doesn't matter if you're your own boss if you can't stand up for yourself.
THE ANT
Ants were once men and made their living by tilling the soil. But, not content with the results of their own work, they were always casting longing eyes upon the crops and fruits of their neighbours, which they stole, whenever they got the chance, and added to their own store. At last their covetousness made Jupiter so angry that he changed them into Ants. But, though their forms were changed, their nature remained the same: and so, to this day, they go about among the cornfields and gather the fruits of others' labour, and store them up for their own use.
Ants used to be humans and earned their living by farming the land. However, not satisfied with what they produced, they were always eyeing their neighbors' crops and fruits, stealing them whenever they could to add to their stash. Eventually, their greed made Jupiter so furious that he transformed them into ants. But even though their appearance changed, their nature stayed the same: to this day, they roam through the fields, collecting the fruits of others' hard work and saving them for themselves.
You may punish a thief, but his bent remains.
You can punish a thief, but they will still be inclined to steal.
THE FROGS AND THE WELL
Two Frogs lived together in a marsh. But one hot summer the marsh dried up, and they left it to look for another place to live in: for frogs like damp places if they can get them. By and by they came to a deep well, and one of them looked down into it, and said to the other, "This looks a nice cool place: let us jump in and settle here." But the other, who had a wiser head on his shoulders, replied, "Not so fast, my friend: supposing this well dried up like the marsh, how should we get out again?"
Two frogs lived together in a marsh. But one hot summer, the marsh dried up, and they set out to find another place to live because frogs prefer damp areas if they can find them. Eventually, they came across a deep well, and one of them looked down into it and said to the other, "This looks like a nice cool spot; let's jump in and settle here." But the other, who was more sensible, replied, "Not so fast, my friend: what if this well dries up like the marsh? How would we get out again?"
Think twice before you act.
Think twice before acting.
THE CRAB AND THE FOX
A Crab once left the sea-shore and went and settled in a meadow some way inland, which looked very nice and green and seemed likely to be a good place to feed in. But a hungry Fox came along and spied the Crab and caught him. Just as he was going to be eaten up, the Crab said, "This is just what I deserve; for I had no business to leave my natural home by the sea and settle here as though I belonged to the land."
A Crab once left the beach and moved to a meadow a bit inland, which looked really nice and green and seemed like a great place to find food. But a hungry Fox came by, spotted the Crab, and caught him. Just as the Fox was about to eat him, the Crab said, "This is exactly what I deserve; I had no right to leave my natural home by the sea and settle here as if I belonged to the land."
Be content with your lot.
Be happy with what you have.
THE FOX AND THE GRASSHOPPER
A Grasshopper sat chirping in the branches of a tree. A Fox heard her, and, thinking what a dainty morsel she would make, he tried to get her down by a trick. Standing below in full view of her, he praised her song in the most flattering terms, and begged her to descend, saying he would like to make the acquaintance of the owner of so beautiful a voice. But she was not to be taken in, and replied, "You are very much mistaken, my dear sir, if you imagine I am going to come down: I keep well out of the way of you and your kind ever since the day when I saw numbers of grasshoppers' wings strewn about the entrance to a fox's earth."
A Grasshopper was chirping in the branches of a tree. A Fox heard her and, thinking she would make a tasty snack, tried to lure her down with a trick. Standing below in plain sight, he complimented her song in the most flattering way and asked her to come down, saying he would like to meet the owner of such a beautiful voice. But she wasn’t fooled and replied, "You’re very mistaken, my dear sir, if you think I’m going to come down: I’ve kept my distance from you and your kind ever since I saw lots of grasshopper wings scattered at the entrance to a fox's den."
THE FARMER, HIS BOY, AND THE ROOKS
A Farmer had just sown a field of wheat, and was keeping a careful watch over it, for numbers of Rooks and starlings kept continually settling on it and eating up the grain. Along with him went his Boy, carrying a sling: and whenever the Farmer asked for the sling the starlings understood what he said and warned the Rooks and they were off in a moment. So the Farmer hit on a trick. "My lad," said he, "we must get the better of these birds somehow. After this, when I want the sling, I won't say 'sling,' but just 'humph!' and you must then hand me the sling quickly." Presently back came the whole flock. "Humph!" said the Farmer; but the starlings took no notice, and he had time to sling several stones among them, hitting one on the head, another in the legs, and another in the wing, before they got out of range. As they made all haste away they met some cranes, who asked them what the matter was. "Matter?" said one of the Rooks; "it's those rascals, men, that are the matter. Don't you go near them. They have a way of saying one thing and meaning another which has just been the death of several of our poor friends."
A farmer had just planted a field of wheat and was keeping a close eye on it because groups of rooks and starlings kept landing on it and eating the grain. Accompanying him was his boy, who carried a sling: whenever the farmer asked for the sling, the starlings understood him and warned the rooks, causing them to fly away instantly. So the farmer came up with a plan. "My boy," he said, "we need to outsmart these birds somehow. From now on, when I want the sling, I won’t say ‘sling,’ but just ‘humph!’ and you should quickly hand me the sling." Soon, the whole flock returned. "Humph!" said the farmer, but the starlings paid no attention, and he had time to throw several stones among them, hitting one on the head, another on the legs, and another on the wing before they got out of range. As they hurried away, they ran into some cranes, who asked what was wrong. "What’s wrong?" one of the rooks said. "It's those rascals, men, who are the problem. Don’t go near them. They have a way of saying one thing but meaning another, which has just led to the downfall of several of our poor friends."
THE ASS AND THE DOG
An Ass and a Dog were on their travels together, and, as they went along, they found a sealed packet lying on the ground. The Ass picked it up, broke the seal, and found it contained some writing, which he proceeded to read out aloud to the Dog. As he read on it turned out to be all about grass and barley and hay—in short, all the kinds of fodder that Asses are fond of. The Dog was a good deal bored with listening to all this, till at last his impatience got the better of him, and he cried, "Just skip a few pages, friend, and see if there isn't something about meat and bones." The Ass glanced all through the packet, but found nothing of the sort, and said so. Then the Dog said in disgust, "Oh, throw it away, do: what's the good of a thing like that?"
An Ass and a Dog were traveling together when they came across a sealed packet lying on the ground. The Ass picked it up, broke the seal, and began reading the contents out loud to the Dog. As he read, it turned out to be all about grass, barley, and hay—in short, all the kinds of food that Donkeys love. The Dog was pretty bored listening to all of this, and eventually his impatience got the better of him. He exclaimed, "Just skip ahead a few pages and see if there’s anything about meat and bones." The Ass looked through the entire packet but found nothing like that and said so. The Dog then replied in frustration, "Oh, just toss it away: what's the point of something like that?"
THE ASS CARRYING THE IMAGE
A certain man put an Image on the back of his Ass to take it to one of the temples of the town. As they went along the road all the people they met uncovered and bowed their heads out of reverence for the Image; but the Ass thought they were doing it out of respect for himself, and began to give himself airs accordingly. At last he became so conceited that he imagined he could do as he liked, and, by way of protest against the load he was carrying, he came to a full stop and flatly declined to proceed any further. His driver, finding him so obstinate, hit him hard and long with his stick, saying the while, "Oh, you dunder-headed idiot, do you suppose it's come to this, that men pay worship to an Ass?"
A man put an image on the back of his donkey to take it to one of the local temples. As they made their way down the road, everyone they passed uncovered their heads and bowed out of respect for the image; however, the donkey thought they were doing it out of respect for him, and he started to act all high and mighty. Eventually, he became so full of himself that he thought he could do whatever he wanted, and, in protest against the load he was carrying, he came to a complete stop and refused to move any further. His driver, finding him so stubborn, beat him hard and long with his stick, saying, "Oh, you foolish idiot, do you really think that people worship a donkey?"
Rude shocks await those who take to themselves the credit that is due to others.
Rude surprises await those who claim credit that belongs to others.
THE ATHENIAN AND THE THEBAN
An Athenian and a Theban were on the road together, and passed the time in conversation, as is the way of travellers. After discussing a variety of subjects they began to talk about heroes, a topic that tends to be more fertile than edifying. Each of them was lavish in his praises of the heroes of his own city, until eventually the Theban asserted that Hercules was the greatest hero who had ever lived on earth, and now occupied a foremost place among the gods; while the Athenian insisted that Theseus was far superior, for his fortune had been in every way supremely blessed, whereas Hercules had at one time been forced to act as a servant. And he gained his point, for he was a very glib fellow, like all Athenians; so that the Theban, who was no match for him in talking, cried at last in some disgust, "All right, have your way; I only hope that, when our heroes are angry with us, Athens may suffer from the anger of Hercules, and Thebes only from that of Theseus."
An Athenian and a Theban were traveling together and passed the time chatting, like most travelers do. After discussing various topics, they started talking about heroes, which often leads to more disagreement than insight. Each of them praised the heroes from their own city until the Theban claimed that Hercules was the greatest hero to ever live on earth and now held a top spot among the gods. The Athenian argued that Theseus was far better because his life had been full of blessings, while Hercules had once been forced to serve others. The Athenian won the argument, as he was quite persuasive, like many Athenians; so the Theban, who couldn't keep up in the conversation, finally exclaimed in frustration, "Fine, have it your way; I just hope that when our heroes get angry with us, Athens feels the wrath of Hercules, while Thebes only has to deal with the anger of Theseus."
THE GOATHERD AND THE GOAT
A Goatherd was one day gathering his flock to return to the fold, when one of his goats strayed and refused to join the rest. He tried for a long time to get her to return by calling and whistling to her, but the Goat took no notice of him at all; so at last he threw a stone at her and broke one of her horns. In dismay, he begged her not to tell his master: but she replied, "You silly fellow, my horn would cry aloud even if I held my tongue."
A goatherd was rounding up his flock to head back to the pen when one of his goats wandered off and wouldn’t come back. He spent a long time trying to coax her with calls and whistles, but the goat ignored him completely; finally, he threw a rock at her and broke one of her horns. Frustrated, he pleaded with her not to tell his boss, but she responded, “You fool, my horn would shout out even if I stayed silent.”
It's no use trying to hide what can't be hidden.
It's pointless to try to hide what can't be hidden.
THE SHEEP AND THE DOG
Once upon a time the Sheep complained to the shepherd about the difference in his treatment of themselves and his Dog. "Your conduct," said they, "is very strange and, we think, very unfair. We provide you with wool and lambs and milk and you give us nothing but grass, and even that we have to find for ourselves: but you get nothing at all from the Dog, and yet you feed him with tit-bits from your own table." Their remarks were overheard by the Dog, who spoke up at once and said, "Yes, and quite right, too: where would you be if it wasn't for me? Thieves would steal you! Wolves would eat you! Indeed, if I didn't keep constant watch over you, you would be too terrified even to graze!" The Sheep were obliged to acknowledge that he spoke the truth, and never again made a grievance of the regard in which he was held by his master.
Once upon a time, the Sheep complained to the shepherd about the way he treated them compared to his Dog. "Your behavior," they said, "is really odd and we think it's unfair. We provide you with wool, lambs, and milk, and all you give us is grass, which we have to find ourselves. But you get nothing from the Dog, and yet you feed him scraps from your own table." The Dog overheard their comments and quickly responded, "Yes, and that's completely fair: where would you be without me? Thieves would steal you! Wolves would eat you! Honestly, if I didn't keep a constant watch over you, you'd be too scared to even graze!" The Sheep had to admit he was right and never again complained about the way their master regarded him.
THE SHEPHERD AND THE WOLF
A Shepherd found a Wolf's Cub straying in the pastures, and took him home and reared him along with his dogs. When the Cub grew to his full size, if ever a wolf stole a sheep from the flock, he used to join the dogs in hunting him down. It sometimes happened that the dogs failed to come up with the thief, and, abandoning the pursuit, returned home. The Wolf would on such occasions continue the chase by himself, and when he overtook the culprit, would stop and share the feast with him, and then return to the Shepherd. But if some time passed without a sheep being carried off by the wolves, he would steal one himself and share his plunder with the dogs. The Shepherd's suspicions were aroused, and one day he caught him in the act; and, fastening a rope round his neck, hung him on the nearest tree.
A shepherd found a wolf pup wandering in the fields and took him home to raise him with his dogs. Once the pup grew to full size, whenever a wolf stole a sheep from the flock, he would join the dogs in chasing it down. Sometimes the dogs couldn't catch the thief and would give up the chase, returning home. On those occasions, the wolf would keep pursuing the thief by himself, and when he caught up with him, he would stop and share the meal with the wolf, then head back to the shepherd. But if too much time went by without any sheep being taken by wolves, he would steal one himself and share the loot with the dogs. The shepherd started to become suspicious, and one day he caught him red-handed; he tied a rope around his neck and hung him from the nearest tree.
What's bred in the bone is sure to come out in the flesh.
What's ingrained deep down is definitely going to show on the surface.
THE LION, JUPITER, AND THE ELEPHANT
The Lion, for all his size and strength, and his sharp teeth and claws, is a coward in one thing: he can't bear the sound of a cock crowing, and runs away whenever he hears it. He complained bitterly to Jupiter for making him like that; but Jupiter said it wasn't his fault: he had done the best he could for him, and, considering this was his only failing, he ought to be well content. The Lion, however, wouldn't be comforted, and was so ashamed of his timidity that he wished he might die. In this state of mind, he met the Elephant and had a talk with him. He noticed that the great beast cocked up his ears all the time, as if he were listening for something, and he asked him why he did so. Just then a gnat came humming by, and the Elephant said, "Do you see that wretched little buzzing insect? I'm terribly afraid of its getting into my ear: if it once gets in, I'm dead and done for." The Lion's spirits rose at once when he heard this: "For," he said to himself, "if the Elephant, huge as he is, is afraid of a gnat, I needn't be so much ashamed of being afraid of a cock, who is ten thousand times bigger than a gnat."
The Lion, despite his size and strength, along with his sharp teeth and claws, has one big flaw: he can't stand the sound of a rooster crowing and runs away whenever he hears it. He complained to Jupiter about this, but Jupiter told him it wasn’t his fault; he had done the best he could, and since this was his only weakness, he should be satisfied. However, the Lion wouldn’t be consoled and was so embarrassed by his fear that he wished he could die. Feeling down, he met the Elephant and talked with him. He noticed that the Elephant was constantly perked up, as if he were listening for something, and he asked what was going on. Just then, a gnat buzzed by, and the Elephant said, "Do you see that annoying little bug? I'm really afraid it might get into my ear: if it does, I'm done for." The Lion's mood lifted immediately when he heard this: "Because," he thought, "if the huge Elephant is scared of a gnat, I shouldn’t feel so ashamed about being afraid of a rooster, who is way bigger than a gnat."
THE PIG AND THE SHEEP
A Pig found his way into a meadow where a flock of Sheep were grazing. The shepherd caught him, and was proceeding to carry him off to the butcher's when he set up a loud squealing and struggled to get free. The Sheep rebuked him for making such a to-do, and said to him, "The shepherd catches us regularly and drags us off just like that, and we don't make any fuss." "No, I dare say not," replied the Pig, "but my case and yours are altogether different: he only wants you for wool, but he wants me for bacon."
A pig wandered into a meadow where a flock of sheep were grazing. The shepherd caught him and was about to take him to the butcher when the pig started squealing loudly and tried to escape. The sheep scolded him for making such a scene and said, "The shepherd catches us all the time and drags us off like that, and we don’t make a fuss." "Maybe not," replied the pig, "but my situation and yours are completely different: he only wants you for your wool, but he wants me for bacon."
THE GARDENER AND HIS DOG
A Gardner's Dog fell into a deep well, from which his master used to draw water for the plants in his garden with a rope and a bucket. Failing to get the Dog out by means of these, the Gardener went down into the well himself in order to fetch him up. But the Dog thought he had come to make sure of drowning him; so he bit his master as soon as he came within reach, and hurt him a good deal, with the result that he left the Dog to his fate and climbed out of the well, remarking, "It serves me quite right for trying to save so determined a suicide."
A gardener's dog fell into a deep well where his owner used to draw water for the plants in his garden with a rope and a bucket. When the gardener couldn’t get the dog out that way, he decided to go down into the well himself to rescue him. But the dog thought he was there to drown him, so he bit his owner as soon as he got close, injuring him quite a bit. As a result, the gardener left the dog to his fate and climbed out of the well, saying, "I guess I deserve this for trying to save such a determined suicide."
THE RIVERS AND THE SEA
Once upon a time all the Rivers combined to protest against the action of the Sea in making their waters salt. "When we come to you," said they to the Sea, "we are sweet and drinkable: but when once we have mingled with you, our waters become as briny and unpalatable as your own." The Sea replied shortly, "Keep away from me and you'll remain sweet."
Once upon a time, all the Rivers joined together to complain about the Sea turning their waters salty. "When we reach you," they told the Sea, "we're fresh and drinkable. But once we mix with you, our waters become as salty and unpleasant as yours." The Sea curtly responded, "Stay away from me, and you'll stay fresh."
THE LION IN LOVE
A Lion fell deeply in love with the daughter of a cottager and wanted to marry her; but her father was unwilling to give her to so fearsome a husband, and yet didn't want to offend the Lion; so he hit upon the following expedient. He went to the Lion and said, "I think you will make a very good husband for my daughter: but I cannot consent to your union unless you let me draw your teeth and pare your nails, for my daughter is terribly afraid of them." The Lion was so much in love that he readily agreed that this should be done. When once, however, he was thus disarmed, the Cottager was afraid of him no longer, but drove him away with his club.
A Lion fell deeply in love with a cottager's daughter and wanted to marry her; but her father didn't want to give her to such a fearsome husband, and still wanted to keep the Lion from getting angry. So he came up with a clever plan. He approached the Lion and said, "I think you would make a great husband for my daughter: but I can't agree to your marriage unless you let me remove your teeth and trim your nails, because my daughter is really scared of them." The Lion was so in love that he quickly agreed to this. But once he was disarmed, the Cottager wasn't afraid anymore and chased him away with his club.
THE BEE-KEEPER
A Thief found his way into an apiary when the Bee-keeper was away, and stole all the honey. When the Keeper returned and found the hives empty, he was very much upset and stood staring at them for some time. Before long the bees came back from gathering honey, and, finding their hives overturned and the Keeper standing by, they made for him with their stings. At this he fell into a passion and cried, "You ungrateful scoundrels, you let the thief who stole my honey get off scot-free, and then you go and sting me who have always taken such care of you!"
A thief broke into a beehive while the beekeeper was away and stole all the honey. When the beekeeper returned and saw the empty hives, he was really upset and just stood there staring at them for a while. Soon enough, the bees came back from gathering nectar and, finding their hives messed up and the beekeeper standing there, they swarmed him with their stings. Angered, he shouted, "You ungrateful little pests! You let the thief who stole my honey get away without a scratch, and then you come and sting me, the one who has always cared for you!"
When you hit back make sure you have got the right man.
When you fight back, make sure you've got the right person.
THE WOLF AND THE HORSE
A Wolf on his rambles came to a field of oats, but, not being able to eat them, he was passing on his way when a Horse came along. "Look," said the Wolf, "here's a fine field of oats. For your sake I have left it untouched, and I shall greatly enjoy the sound of your teeth munching the ripe grain." But the Horse replied, "If wolves could eat oats, my fine friend, you would hardly have indulged your ears at the cost of your belly."
A Wolf was wandering around when he came across a field of oats. Since he couldn't eat them, he was about to move on when a Horse came by. "Look," said the Wolf, "here’s a great field of oats. I left it untouched just for you, and I can’t wait to hear you munching on the ripe grain." But the Horse replied, "If wolves could eat oats, my good friend, you wouldn't be enjoying the sound at the expense of your own hunger."
There is no virtue in giving to others what is useless to oneself.
There’s no point in giving others something that’s useless to you.
THE BAT, THE BRAMBLE, AND THE SEAGULL
A Bat, a Bramble, and a Seagull went into partnership and determined to go on a trading voyage together. The Bat borrowed a sum of money for his venture; the Bramble laid in a stock of clothes of various kinds; and the Seagull took a quantity of lead: and so they set out. By and by a great storm came on, and their boat with all the cargo went to the bottom, but the three travellers managed to reach land. Ever since then the Seagull flies to and fro over the sea, and every now and then dives below the surface, looking for the lead he's lost; while the Bat is so afraid of meeting his creditors that he hides away by day and only comes out at night to feed; and the Bramble catches hold of the clothes of every one who passes by, hoping some day to recognise and recover the lost garments.
A Bat, a Bramble, and a Seagull decided to team up and go on a trading trip together. The Bat borrowed some money for his venture; the Bramble stocked up on clothes of all kinds; and the Seagull brought a lot of lead. And off they went. Eventually, a big storm hit, and their boat, along with all their cargo, sank, but the three travelers managed to make it to land. Ever since, the Seagull flies back and forth over the sea, occasionally diving below the surface, searching for the lead he lost; the Bat, scared of facing his creditors, hides during the day and only comes out at night to eat; and the Bramble grabs onto the clothes of everyone who walks by, hoping one day to recognize and recover the lost garments.
All men are more concerned to recover what they lose than to acquire what they lack.
All people care more about getting back what they've lost than about gaining what they don’t have.
THE DOG AND THE WOLF
A Dog was lying in the sun before a farmyard gate when a Wolf pounced upon him and was just going to eat him up; but he begged for his life and said, "You see how thin I am and what a wretched meal I should make you now: but if you will only wait a few days my master is going to give a feast. All the rich scraps and pickings will fall to me and I shall get nice and fat: then will be the time for you to eat me." The Wolf thought this was a very good plan and went away. Some time afterwards he came to the farmyard again, and found the Dog lying out of reach on the stable roof. "Come down," he called, "and be eaten: you remember our agreement?" But the Dog said coolly, "My friend, if ever you catch me lying down by the gate there again, don't you wait for any feast."
A dog was lying in the sun by a farm gate when a wolf jumped on him and was about to eat him. But the dog begged for his life and said, "Look how thin I am; I wouldn't make much of a meal for you right now. If you just wait a few days, my owner is throwing a feast. I’ll be getting all the rich scraps and leftovers, and I’ll get nice and fat. That’ll be the perfect time for you to eat me." The wolf thought this was a great idea and left. Some time later, he returned to the farmyard and found the dog lying out of reach on the roof of the stable. "Come down," he called, "and let’s stick to our agreement." But the dog replied nonchalantly, "My friend, if you ever catch me lying by the gate again, don’t bother waiting for any feast."
Once bitten, twice shy.
Once hurt, twice cautious.
THE WASP AND THE SNAKE
A Wasp settled on the head of a Snake, and not only stung him several times, but clung obstinately to the head of his victim. Maddened with pain the Snake tried every means he could think of to get rid of the creature, but without success. At last he became desperate, and crying, "Kill you I will, even at the cost of my own life," he laid his head with the Wasp on it under the wheel of a passing waggon, and they both perished together.
A wasp landed on a snake's head and not only stung him multiple times but also stubbornly stayed there. Driven crazy by the pain, the snake tried everything he could think of to shake off the wasp, but nothing worked. Finally, in desperation, he shouted, "I'll kill you, even if it costs me my life," and he put his head under the wheel of a passing wagon, and they both died together.
THE EAGLE AND THE BEETLE
An Eagle was chasing a hare, which was running for dear life and was at her wits' end to know where to turn for help. Presently she espied a Beetle, and begged it to aid her. So when the Eagle came up the Beetle warned her not to touch the hare, which was under its protection. But the Eagle never noticed the Beetle because it was so small, seized the hare and ate her up. The Beetle never forgot this, and used to keep an eye on the Eagle's nest, and whenever the Eagle laid an egg it climbed up and rolled it out of the nest and broke it. At last the Eagle got so worried over the loss of her eggs that she went up to Jupiter, who is the special protector of Eagles, and begged him to give her a safe place to nest in: so he let her lay her eggs in his lap. But the Beetle noticed this and made a ball of dirt the size of an Eagle's egg, and flew up and deposited it in Jupiter's lap. When Jupiter saw the dirt, he stood up to shake it out of his robe, and, forgetting about the eggs, he shook them out too, and they were broken just as before. Ever since then, they say, Eagles never lay their eggs at the season when Beetles are about.
An eagle was chasing a hare, which was running for its life and was desperate for help. Soon, it spotted a beetle and asked it for assistance. When the eagle caught up, the beetle warned it not to touch the hare, saying it was under its protection. But the eagle ignored the beetle since it was so small and seized the hare, eating it. The beetle never forgot this and started keeping an eye on the eagle's nest. Whenever the eagle laid an egg, the beetle would climb up and roll it out of the nest, breaking it. Eventually, the eagle became so worried about the loss of her eggs that she went to Jupiter, the special protector of eagles, and asked him to give her a safe place to nest. He allowed her to lay her eggs in his lap. But the beetle noticed this and made a ball of dirt the size of an eagle's egg, then flew up and placed it in Jupiter's lap. When Jupiter saw the dirt, he stood up to shake it out of his robe, and in the process, he forgot about the eggs and accidentally shook them out too, breaking them just like before. Since then, it’s said that eagles don’t lay their eggs during the season when beetles are around.
The weak will sometimes find ways to avenge an insult, even upon the strong.
The weak will sometimes find ways to get back at an insult, even against the strong.
THE FOWLER AND THE LARK
A Fowler was setting his nets for little birds when a Lark came up to him and asked him what he was doing. "I am engaged in founding a city," said he, and with that he withdrew to a short distance and concealed himself. The Lark examined the nets with great curiosity, and presently, catching sight of the bait, hopped on to them in order to secure it, and became entangled in the meshes. The Fowler then ran up quickly and captured her. "What a fool I was!" said she: "but at any rate, if that's the kind of city you are founding, it'll be a long time before you find fools enough to fill it."
A birdcatcher was setting his traps for small birds when a lark approached him and asked what he was doing. "I'm in the process of building a city," he replied, and then moved a short distance away to hide. The lark inspected the traps with great curiosity, and soon, noticing the bait, hopped onto them to grab it, only to get caught in the mesh. The birdcatcher quickly ran over and caught her. "What a fool I was!" she exclaimed, "but at least if that's the kind of city you're building, it will take a long time before you find enough fools to fill it."
THE FISHERMAN PIPING
A Fisherman who could play the flute went down one day to the sea-shore with his nets and his flute; and, taking his stand on a projecting rock, began to play a tune, thinking that the music would bring the fish jumping out of the sea. He went on playing for some time, but not a fish appeared: so at last he threw down his flute and cast his net into the sea, and made a great haul of fish. When they were landed and he saw them leaping about on the shore, he cried, "You rascals! you wouldn't dance when I piped: but now I've stopped, you can do nothing else!"
A fisherman who could play the flute went down to the shore one day with his nets and his flute. He stood on a protruding rock and started to play a tune, hoping the music would make the fish jump out of the sea. He played for a while, but no fish showed up. Finally, he put down his flute and cast his net into the sea, catching a huge amount of fish. Once he had pulled them in and saw them flopping around on the shore, he exclaimed, “You tricksters! You wouldn’t dance when I played, but now that I’ve stopped, you can’t do anything else!”
THE WEASEL AND THE MAN
A Man once caught a Weasel, which was always sneaking about the house, and was just going to drown it in a tub of water, when it begged hard for its life, and said to him, "Surely you haven't the heart to put me to death? Think how useful I have been in clearing your house of the mice and lizards which used to infest it, and show your gratitude by sparing my life." "You have not been altogether useless, I grant you," said the Man: "but who killed the fowls? Who stole the meat? No, no! You do much more harm than good, and die you shall."
A man once caught a weasel that had been sneaking around his house. He was about to drown it in a tub of water when the weasel begged for its life, saying, "You can't seriously want to kill me? Remember how useful I've been in getting rid of the mice and lizards that used to infest your home? Please show some gratitude and spare my life." The man replied, "I admit you haven’t been completely useless, but who killed the chickens? Who stole the meat? No way! You do way more harm than good, and you’re going to die."
THE PLOUGHMAN, THE ASS, AND THE OX
A Ploughman yoked his Ox and his Ass together, and set to work to plough his field. It was a poor makeshift of a team, but it was the best he could do, as he had but a single Ox. At the end of the day, when the beasts were loosed from the yoke, the Ass said to the Ox, "Well, we've had a hard day: which of us is to carry the master home?" The Ox looked surprised at the question. "Why," said he, "you, to be sure, as usual."
A farmer hitched his ox and his donkey together and started plowing his field. It was a pretty rough team, but it was the best he could manage since he only had one ox. At the end of the day, when the animals were freed from the yoke, the donkey said to the ox, "Wow, it’s been a tough day: which one of us is carrying the master home?" The ox was taken aback by the question. "Well," he replied, "you, of course, just like always."
DEMADES AND HIS FABLE
Demades the orator was once speaking in the Assembly at Athens; but the people were very inattentive to what he was saying, so he stopped and said, "Gentlemen, I should like to tell you one of Aesop's fables." This made every one listen intently. Then Demades began: "Demeter, a Swallow, and an Eel were once travelling together, and came to a river without a bridge: the Swallow flew over it, and the Eel swam across"; and then he stopped. "What happened to Demeter?" cried several people in the audience. "Demeter," he replied, "is very angry with you for listening to fables when you ought to be minding public business."
Demades the orator was speaking in the Assembly in Athens, but the audience was completely ignoring him, so he paused and said, "Hey everyone, I’d like to share one of Aesop's fables." This got everyone's attention. Then Demades started: "Demeter, a Swallow, and an Eel were once traveling together and came to a river without a bridge: the Swallow flew over it, and the Eel swam across." Then he stopped. "What happened to Demeter?" several people in the audience shouted. "Demeter," he replied, "is very angry with you for listening to fables when you should be focused on public affairs."
THE MONKEY AND THE DOLPHIN
When people go on a voyage they often take with them lap-dogs or monkeys as pets to wile away the time. Thus it fell out that a man returning to Athens from the East had a pet Monkey on board with him. As they neared the coast of Attica a great storm burst upon them, and the ship capsized. All on board were thrown into the water, and tried to save themselves by swimming, the Monkey among the rest. A Dolphin saw him, and, supposing him to be a man, took him on his back and began swimming towards the shore. When they got near the Piraeus, which is the port of Athens, the Dolphin asked the Monkey if he was an Athenian. The Monkey replied that he was, and added that he came of a very distinguished family. "Then, of course, you know the Piraeus," continued the Dolphin. The Monkey thought he was referring to some high official or other, and replied, "Oh, yes, he's a very old friend of mine." At that, detecting his hypocrisy, the Dolphin was so disgusted that he dived below the surface, and the unfortunate Monkey was quickly drowned.
When people go on a journey, they often bring along small pets like lapdogs or monkeys to pass the time. So it happened that a man returning to Athens from the East had a pet monkey with him on board. As they approached the coast of Attica, a huge storm hit, and the ship capsized. Everyone on board ended up in the water and tried to save themselves by swimming, including the monkey. A dolphin spotted him and, thinking he was a human, took him on its back and started swimming toward the shore. When they got close to Piraeus, the port of Athens, the dolphin asked the monkey if he was an Athenian. The monkey replied that he was and claimed to come from a very distinguished family. "Then, of course, you know the Piraeus," the dolphin continued. The monkey, thinking the dolphin meant some high official, answered, "Oh, yes, he's a very old friend of mine." Upon realizing the monkey was lying, the dolphin was so disgusted that he dove underwater, and the unfortunate monkey quickly drowned.
THE CROW AND THE SNAKE
A hungry Crow spied a Snake lying asleep in a sunny spot, and, picking it up in his claws, he was carrying it off to a place where he could make a meal of it without being disturbed, when the Snake reared its head and bit him. It was a poisonous Snake, and the bite was fatal, and the dying Crow said, "What a cruel fate is mine! I thought I had made a lucky find, and it has cost me my life!"
A hungry Crow spotted a Snake sleeping in a sunny spot and, grabbing it with his claws, was carrying it off to a place where he could eat it without being interrupted. Just then, the Snake lifted its head and bit him. It was a poisonous Snake, and the bite was deadly. As the Crow lay dying, he said, "What a cruel fate I have! I thought I had stumbled upon a lucky find, and it has cost me my life!"
THE DOGS AND THE FOX
Some Dogs once found a lion's skin, and were worrying it with their teeth. Just then a Fox came by, and said, "You think yourselves very brave, no doubt; but if that were a live lion you'd find his claws a good deal sharper than your teeth."
Some dogs once found a lion's skin and were tugging at it with their teeth. Just then, a fox came by and said, "You probably think you're very brave, but if that were a real lion, you'd find his claws a lot sharper than your teeth."
THE NIGHTINGALE AND THE HAWK
A Nightingale was sitting on a bough of an oak and singing, as her custom was. A hungry Hawk presently spied her, and darting to the spot seized her in his talons. He was just about to tear her in pieces when she begged him to spare her life: "I'm not big enough," she pleaded, "to make you a good meal: you ought to seek your prey among the bigger birds." The Hawk eyed her with some contempt. "You must think me very simple," said he, "if you suppose I am going to give up a certain prize on the chance of a better of which I see at present no signs."
A nightingale was perched on an oak branch, singing as usual. A hungry hawk soon spotted her and swooped down, catching her in his claws. He was just about to tear her apart when she pleaded for her life: "I'm not big enough," she said, "to be a decent meal for you. You should look for larger birds instead." The hawk looked at her with some disdain. "You must think I'm really foolish," he replied, "if you think I'm going to let go of a sure thing for a chance at something better that I can't even see right now."
THE ROSE AND THE AMARANTH
A Rose and an Amaranth blossomed side by side in a garden, and the Amaranth said to her neighbour, "How I envy you your beauty and your sweet scent! No wonder you are such a universal favourite." But the Rose replied with a shade of sadness in her voice, "Ah, my dear friend, I bloom but for a time: my petals soon wither and fall, and then I die. But your flowers never fade, even if they are cut; for they are everlasting."
A Rose and an Amaranth bloomed next to each other in a garden, and the Amaranth said to her neighbor, "I really envy your beauty and sweet fragrance! It's no surprise you're such a favorite." But the Rose replied with a hint of sadness in her voice, "Oh, my dear friend, I only bloom for a little while: my petals quickly wither and fall, and then I die. But your flowers never fade, even when they're cut; they endure forever."
THE MAN, THE HORSE, THE OX, AND THE DOG
One winter's day, during a severe storm, a Horse, an Ox, and a Dog came and begged for shelter in the house of a Man. He readily admitted them, and, as they were cold and wet, he lit a fire for their comfort: and he put oats before the Horse, and hay before the Ox, while he fed the Dog with the remains of his own dinner. When the storm abated, and they were about to depart, they determined to show their gratitude in the following way. They divided the life of Man among them, and each endowed one part of it with the qualities which were peculiarly his own. The Horse took youth, and hence young men are high-mettled and impatient of restraint; the Ox took middle age, and accordingly men in middle life are steady and hard-working; while the Dog took old age, which is the reason why old men are so often peevish and ill-tempered, and, like dogs, attached chiefly to those who look to their comfort, while they are disposed to snap at those who are unfamiliar or distasteful to them.
One winter day, during a terrible storm, a Horse, an Ox, and a Dog showed up and asked for shelter at a Man's house. He welcomed them in, and since they were cold and wet, he started a fire for their comfort. He gave the Horse some oats, the Ox some hay, and fed the Dog the leftovers from his own dinner. When the storm calmed down and they were ready to leave, they decided to express their gratitude in the following way. They divided a human's life among themselves, each giving one part its unique qualities. The Horse took youth, which is why young men are often energetic and resist being held back; the Ox took middle age, leading to the idea that men in their middle years are reliable and hard-working; while the Dog took old age, explaining why older men are often grumpy and irritable, and like dogs, they mainly bond with those who ensure their comfort, but tend to snap at those who are unfamiliar or unappealing to them.
THE WOLVES, THE SHEEP, AND THE RAM
The Wolves sent a deputation to the Sheep with proposals for a lasting peace between them, on condition of their giving up the sheep-dogs to instant death. The foolish Sheep agreed to the terms; but an old Ram, whose years had brought him wisdom, interfered and said, "How can we expect to live at peace with you? Why, even with the dogs at hand to protect us, we are never secure from your murderous attacks!"
The Wolves sent a delegation to the Sheep with offers for a lasting peace, on the condition that they surrender the sheep-dogs to be killed immediately. The foolish Sheep accepted the terms; but an old Ram, who had gained wisdom with age, intervened and said, "How can we expect to live in peace with you? Even with the dogs here to protect us, we are never safe from your deadly attacks!"
THE SWAN
The Swan is said to sing but once in its life—when it knows that it is about to die. A certain man, who had heard of the song of the Swan, one day saw one of these birds for sale in the market, and bought it and took it home with him. A few days later he had some friends to dinner, and produced the Swan, and bade it sing for their entertainment: but the Swan remained silent. In course of time, when it was growing old, it became aware of its approaching end and broke into a sweet, sad song. When its owner heard it, he said angrily, "If the creature only sings when it is about to die, what a fool I was that day I wanted to hear its song! I ought to have wrung its neck instead of merely inviting it to sing."
The Swan is said to sing only once in its life—when it knows it's about to die. A man, who had heard about the Swan's song, one day found one for sale in the market, bought it, and took it home. A few days later, he had some friends over for dinner and brought out the Swan, asking it to sing for their entertainment: but the Swan stayed silent. Eventually, as it grew old, it realized its end was near and began to sing a sweet, sad song. When the owner heard it, he became angry and said, "If this creature only sings when it's about to die, what a fool I was that day I wanted to hear its song! I should have just wrung its neck instead of inviting it to sing."
THE SNAKE AND JUPITER
A Snake suffered a good deal from being constantly trodden upon by man and beast, owing partly to the length of his body and partly to his being unable to raise himself above the surface of the ground: so he went and complained to Jupiter about the risks to which he was exposed. But Jupiter had little sympathy for him. "I dare say," said he, "that if you had bitten the first that trod on you, the others would have taken more trouble to look where they put their feet."
A snake endured a lot from being constantly stepped on by people and animals, partly because of his long body and partly because he couldn’t lift himself off the ground. So, he went to Jupiter to complain about the dangers he faced. But Jupiter didn’t have much sympathy for him. "I would say," he remarked, "that if you had bitten the first person who stepped on you, the others would have been more careful about where they placed their feet."
THE WOLF AND HIS SHADOW
A Wolf, who was roaming about on the plain when the sun was getting low in the sky, was much impressed by the size of his shadow, and said to himself, "I had no idea I was so big. Fancy my being afraid of a lion! Why, I, not he, ought to be King of the beasts"; and, heedless of danger, he strutted about as if there could be no doubt at all about it. Just then a lion sprang upon him and began to devour him. "Alas," he cried, "had I not lost sight of the facts, I shouldn't have been ruined by my fancies."
A Wolf was roaming the plain when the sun was setting and was really impressed by how big his shadow was. He thought to himself, "I had no idea I was this huge. How could I have been scared of a lion? I should be the King of the beasts, not him!" Ignoring the danger, he strutted around as if there was absolutely no doubt about it. Just then, a lion pounced on him and started to eat him. "Oh no," he cried, "if I hadn't lost touch with reality, I wouldn't have been doomed by my fantasies."
THE PLOUGHMAN AND THE WOLF
A Ploughman loosed his oxen from the plough, and led them away to the water to drink. While he was absent a half-starved Wolf appeared on the scene, and went up to the plough and began chewing the leather straps attached to the yoke. As he gnawed away desperately in the hope of satisfying his craving for food, he somehow got entangled in the harness, and, taking fright, struggled to get free, tugging at the traces as if he would drag the plough along with him. Just then the Ploughman came back, and seeing what was happening, he cried, "Ah, you old rascal, I wish you would give up thieving for good and take to honest work instead."
A farmer unyoked his oxen from the plow and led them to drink some water. While he was gone, a half-starved wolf showed up and approached the plow, starting to chew on the leather straps of the yoke. As he gnawed away desperately, hoping to satisfy his hunger, he got tangled in the harness. Panicking, he struggled to escape, pulling at the reins as if he wanted to drag the plow with him. Just then, the farmer returned and, seeing what was happening, shouted, "Oh, you old thief, I wish you'd give up stealing for good and start working honestly instead."
MERCURY AND THE MAN BITTEN BY AN ANT
A Man once saw a ship go down with all its crew, and commented severely on the injustice of the gods. "They care nothing for a man's character," said he, "but let the good and the bad go to their deaths together." There was an ant-heap close by where he was standing, and, just as he spoke, he was bitten in the foot by an Ant. Turning in a temper to the ant-heap he stamped upon it and crushed hundreds of unoffending ants. Suddenly Mercury appeared, and belaboured him with his staff, saying as he did so, "You villain, where's your nice sense of justice now?"
A man once witnessed a ship sink with all its crew on board and harshly criticized the unfairness of the gods. "They don't care about a person's character," he said, "but allow both good and bad people to die together." Nearby, there was an ant mound, and just as he spoke, an ant bit him on the foot. Angered, he turned to the ant mound and stomped on it, crushing hundreds of innocent ants. Suddenly, Mercury appeared and struck him with his staff, saying, "You hypocrite, where's your sense of justice now?"
THE WILY LION
A Lion watched a fat Bull feeding in a meadow, and his mouth watered when he thought of the royal feast he would make, but he did not dare to attack him, for he was afraid of his sharp horns. Hunger, however, presently compelled him to do something: and as the use of force did not promise success, he determined to resort to artifice. Going up to the Bull in friendly fashion, he said to him, "I cannot help saying how much I admire your magnificent figure. What a fine head! What powerful shoulders and thighs! But, my dear friend, what in the world makes you wear those ugly horns? You must find them as awkward as they are unsightly. Believe me, you would do much better without them." The Bull was foolish enough to be persuaded by this flattery to have his horns cut off; and, having now lost his only means of defence, fell an easy prey to the Lion.
A Lion saw a fat Bull eating in a meadow, and his mouth watered at the thought of the feast he would enjoy, but he didn’t dare to attack because he was afraid of the Bull's sharp horns. However, hunger soon forced him to take action: and since using force didn’t seem promising, he decided to use trickery. Approaching the Bull in a friendly way, he said, "I have to say how much I admire your amazing physique. What a great head! What strong shoulders and thighs! But, my dear friend, why do you wear those ugly horns? They must feel as awkward as they look. Honestly, you would be better off without them." The Bull, foolishly swayed by this flattery, agreed to have his horns removed; and now that he had lost his only means of defense, he became an easy target for the Lion.
THE PARROT AND THE CAT
A Man once bought a Parrot and gave it the run of his house. It revelled in its liberty, and presently flew up on to the mantelpiece and screamed away to its heart's content. The noise disturbed the Cat, who was asleep on the hearthrug. Looking up at the intruder, she said, "Who may you be, and where have you come from?" The Parrot replied, "Your master has just bought me and brought me home with him." "You impudent bird," said the Cat, "how dare you, a newcomer, make a noise like that? Why, I was born here, and have lived here all my life, and yet, if I venture to mew, they throw things at me and chase me all over the place." "Look here, mistress," said the Parrot, "you just hold your tongue. My voice they delight in; but yours—yours is a perfect nuisance."
A man bought a parrot and let it roam around his house. The parrot enjoyed its freedom and soon flew up to the mantelpiece, squawking happily. The noise woke up the cat, who was dozing on the rug. Looking at the newcomer, she asked, "Who are you, and where did you come from?" The parrot answered, "Your owner just bought me and brought me home." "You rude bird," the cat replied, "how dare you, a newcomer, make that kind of noise? I've lived here my whole life, and if I try to meow, they throw things at me and chase me around." "Listen up, lady," said the parrot, "just keep quiet. They love my voice, but yours is just annoying."
THE STAG AND THE LION
A Stag was chased by the hounds, and took refuge in a cave, where he hoped to be safe from his pursuers. Unfortunately the cave contained a Lion, to whom he fell an easy prey. "Unhappy that I am," he cried, "I am saved from the power of the dogs only to fall into the clutches of a Lion."
A Stag was chased by the hounds and sought safety in a cave, where he hoped to escape his pursuers. Unfortunately, the cave was home to a Lion, and he quickly became its easy prey. "How unfortunate I am," he exclaimed, "I escaped the power of the dogs only to end up in the clutches of a Lion."
Out of the frying-pan into the fire.
Out of the frying pan and into the fire.
THE IMPOSTOR
A certain man fell ill, and, being in a very bad way, he made a vow that he would sacrifice a hundred oxen to the gods if they would grant him a return to health. Wishing to see how he would keep his vow, they caused him to recover in a short time. Now, he hadn't an ox in the world, so he made a hundred little oxen out of tallow and offered them up on an altar, at the same time saying, "Ye gods, I call you to witness that I have discharged my vow." The gods determined to be even with him, so they sent him a dream, in which he was bidden to go to the sea-shore and fetch a hundred crowns which he was to find there. Hastening in great excitement to the shore, he fell in with a band of robbers, who seized him and carried him off to sell as a slave: and when they sold him a hundred crowns was the sum he fetched.
A certain man got sick, and since he was in really bad shape, he promised he would sacrifice a hundred oxen to the gods if they helped him get better. Wanting to see if he would keep his promise, they made him recover quickly. However, he didn’t own a single ox, so he made a hundred little oxen out of tallow and offered them on an altar, saying, "You gods, I call you to witness that I have fulfilled my vow." The gods decided to teach him a lesson, so they sent him a dream telling him to go to the beach and collect a hundred crowns he would find there. Eagerly rushing to the shore, he encountered a group of robbers, who captured him and sold him into slavery: and when they sold him, he fetched a hundred crowns.
Do not promise more than you can perform.
Don't promise more than you can actually deliver.
THE DOGS AND THE HIDES
Once upon a time a number of Dogs, who were famished with hunger, saw some Hides steeping in a river, but couldn't get at them because the water was too deep. So they put their heads together, and decided to drink away at the river till it was shallow enough for them to reach the Hides. But long before that happened they burst themselves with drinking.
Once there were a group of Dogs who were starving. They spotted some Hides soaking in a river, but they couldn't reach them because the water was too deep. So, they came together and decided to drink the river dry until it was shallow enough to get the Hides. However, before they could do that, they ended up bursting from drinking too much.
THE LION, THE FOX, AND THE ASS
A Lion, a Fox, and an Ass went out hunting together. They had soon taken a large booty, which the Lion requested the Ass to divide between them. The Ass divided it all into three equal parts, and modestly begged the others to take their choice; at which the Lion, bursting with fury, sprang upon the Ass and tore him to pieces. Then, glaring at the Fox, he bade him make a fresh division. The Fox gathered almost the whole in one great heap for the Lion's share, leaving only the smallest possible morsel for himself. "My dear friend," said the Lion, "how did you get the knack of it so well?" The Fox replied, "Me? Oh, I took a lesson from the Ass."
A Lion, a Fox, and a Donkey went out hunting together. They soon caught a big haul, which the Lion asked the Donkey to divide among them. The Donkey split it all into three equal parts and politely asked the others to choose first. Furious, the Lion pounced on the Donkey and ripped him to shreds. Then, glaring at the Fox, he ordered him to make a new division. The Fox piled almost everything into one big heap for the Lion's share, leaving just a tiny piece for himself. "My dear friend," said the Lion, "how did you figure that out so well?" The Fox replied, "Me? Oh, I learned from the Donkey."
Happy is he who learns from the misfortunes of others.
Happy is the person who learns from other people's mistakes.
THE FOWLER, THE PARTRIDGE, AND THE COCK
One day, as a Fowler was sitting down to a scanty supper of herbs and bread, a friend dropped in unexpectedly. The larder was empty; so he went out and caught a tame Partridge, which he kept as a decoy, and was about to wring her neck when she cried, "Surely you won't kill me? Why, what will you do without me next time you go fowling? How will you get the birds to come to your nets?" He let her go at this, and went to his hen-house, where he had a plump young Cock. When the Cock saw what he was after, he too pleaded for his life, and said, "If you kill me, how will you know the time of night? and who will wake you up in the morning when it is time to get to work?" The Fowler, however, replied, "You are useful for telling the time, I know; but, for all that, I can't send my friend supperless to bed." And therewith he caught him and wrung his neck.
One day, as a birdcatcher was sitting down to a meager supper of herbs and bread, a friend dropped by unexpectedly. The pantry was bare, so he went out and caught a tame partridge he used as a decoy, and was about to wring its neck when it cried out, "You can't seriously be thinking of killing me! What will you do without me the next time you go birdcatching? How will you lure the birds into your nets?" He let it go at this and headed to his henhouse, where he had a plump young rooster. When the rooster saw what he was after, it also pleaded for its life and said, "If you kill me, how will you know the time of night? Who will wake you up in the morning when it's time to get to work?" The birdcatcher, however, replied, "I know you're useful for telling time, but I can’t let my friend go to bed without supper." And with that, he caught the rooster and wrung its neck.
THE GNAT AND THE LION
A Gnat once went up to a Lion and said, "I am not in the least afraid of you: I don't even allow that you are a match for me in strength. What does your strength amount to after all? That you can scratch with your claws and bite with your teeth—just like a woman in a temper—and nothing more. But I'm stronger than you: if you don't believe it, let us fight and see." So saying, the Gnat sounded his horn, and darted in and bit the Lion on the nose. When the Lion felt the sting, in his haste to crush him he scratched his nose badly, and made it bleed, but failed altogether to hurt the Gnat, which buzzed off in triumph, elated by its victory. Presently, however, it got entangled in a spider's web, and was caught and eaten by the spider, thus falling a prey to an insignificant insect after having triumphed over the King of the Beasts.
A gnat once approached a lion and said, "I'm not scared of you at all. I don’t even think you're stronger than I am. What does your strength really mean? You can scratch with your claws and bite with your teeth—just like an angry woman—and that’s it. But I’m stronger than you: if you don’t believe me, let’s fight and see." With that, the gnat buzzed its horn and quickly darted in to bite the lion on the nose. When the lion felt the sting, he tried to crush the gnat in his haste, scratching his own nose badly and making it bleed, but he couldn’t hurt the gnat at all, which flew off feeling victorious. Soon, though, it got caught in a spider's web and was trapped and eaten by the spider, thus becoming prey to a tiny insect after having defeated the King of the Beasts.
THE FARMER AND HIS DOGS
A Farmer was snowed up in his farmstead by a severe storm, and was unable to go out and procure provisions for himself and his family. So he first killed his sheep and used them for food; then, as the storm still continued, he killed his goats; and, last of all, as the weather showed no signs of improving, he was compelled to kill his oxen and eat them. When his Dogs saw the various animals being killed and eaten in turn, they said to one another, "We had better get out of this or we shall be the next to go!"
A farmer was trapped at his farm by a bad storm and couldn't go out to get food for himself and his family. So, he first killed his sheep and used them for food; then, as the storm continued, he killed his goats; and finally, since the weather showed no signs of improving, he had to kill his oxen and eat them. When his dogs saw the different animals being killed and eaten one after another, they said to each other, "We better get out of here or we'll be next!"
THE EAGLE AND THE FOX
An Eagle and a Fox became great friends and determined to live near one another: they thought that the more they saw of each other the better friends they would be. So the Eagle built a nest at the top of a high tree, while the Fox settled in a thicket at the foot of it and produced a litter of cubs. One day the Fox went out foraging for food, and the Eagle, who also wanted food for her young, flew down into the thicket, caught up the Fox's cubs, and carried them up into the tree for a meal for herself and her family. When the Fox came back, and found out what had happened, she was not so much sorry for the loss of her cubs as furious because she couldn't get at the Eagle and pay her out for her treachery. So she sat down not far off and cursed her. But it wasn't long before she had her revenge. Some villagers happened to be sacrificing a goat on a neighbouring altar, and the Eagle flew down and carried off a piece of burning flesh to her nest. There was a strong wind blowing, and the nest caught fire, with the result that her fledglings fell half-roasted to the ground. Then the Fox ran to the spot and devoured them in full sight of the Eagle.
An Eagle and a Fox became great friends and decided to live close to each other, believing that the more they saw each other, the better friends they would be. So, the Eagle built a nest at the top of a tall tree, while the Fox settled in a thicket at the base of it and had a litter of cubs. One day, the Fox went out searching for food, and the Eagle, also in need of food for her young, flew down into the thicket, grabbed the Fox's cubs, and took them up into her tree for a meal for herself and her family. When the Fox returned and discovered what had happened, she was not only upset about losing her cubs but also enraged because she couldn't reach the Eagle to get back at her for her betrayal. So, she sat down not far away and cursed her. But it wasn't long before she got her revenge. Some villagers were sacrificing a goat at a nearby altar, and the Eagle swooped down to grab a piece of burning meat for her nest. A strong wind blew, setting the nest on fire, causing her fledglings to fall, half-roasted, to the ground. The Fox then rushed to the spot and devoured them right in front of the Eagle.
False faith may escape human punishment, but cannot escape the divine.
False faith might avoid human punishment, but it can't escape divine judgment.
THE BUTCHER AND HIS CUSTOMERS
Two Men were buying meat at a Butcher's stall in the market-place, and, while the Butcher's back was turned for a moment, one of them snatched up a joint and hastily thrust it under the other's cloak, where it could not be seen. When the Butcher turned round, he missed the meat at once, and charged them with having stolen it: but the one who had taken it said he hadn't got it, and the one who had got it said he hadn't taken it. The Butcher felt sure they were deceiving him, but he only said, "You may cheat me with your lying, but you can't cheat the gods, and they won't let you off so lightly."
Two guys were buying meat at a butcher's stall in the marketplace, and while the butcher was momentarily turned away, one of them quickly grabbed a piece of meat and shoved it under the other's cloak, where it couldn't be seen. When the butcher turned back, he immediately noticed the missing meat and accused them of stealing it. The one who took it denied having it, while the one who had it insisted he didn't take it. The butcher was convinced they were lying to him, but he simply said, "You might fool me with your lies, but you can't fool the gods, and they won't let you get away with this."
Prevarication often amounts to perjury.
Lying often amounts to perjury.
HERCULES AND MINERVA
Hercules was once travelling along a narrow road when he saw lying on the ground in front of him what appeared to be an apple, and as he passed he stamped upon it with his heel. To his astonishment, instead of being crushed it doubled in size; and, on his attacking it again and smiting it with his club, it swelled up to an enormous size and blocked up the whole road. Upon this he dropped his club, and stood looking at it in amazement. Just then Minerva appeared, and said to him, "Leave it alone, my friend; that which you see before you is the apple of discord: if you do not meddle with it, it remains small as it was at first, but if you resort to violence it swells into the thing you see."
Hercules was traveling down a narrow road when he spotted what looked like an apple lying on the ground in front of him. As he walked past, he stepped on it with his heel. To his surprise, instead of being crushed, it doubled in size. When he hit it again with his club, it grew to an enormous size and blocked the entire road. He dropped his club and stood there, staring at it in shock. Just then, Minerva appeared and said to him, "Leave it alone, my friend; what you see before you is the apple of discord. If you don’t interfere with it, it stays small like it was at first, but if you use force, it becomes the thing you see."
THE FOX WHO SERVED A LION
A Lion had a Fox to attend on him, and whenever they went hunting the Fox found the prey and the Lion fell upon it and killed it, and then they divided it between them in certain proportions. But the Lion always got a very large share, and the Fox a very small one, which didn't please the latter at all; so he determined to set up on his own account. He began by trying to steal a lamb from a flock of sheep: but the shepherd saw him and set his dogs on him. The hunter was now the hunted, and was very soon caught and despatched by the dogs.
A Lion had a Fox that accompanied him, and whenever they went hunting, the Fox found the prey while the Lion attacked and killed it. They divided the catch between them in specific portions. However, the Lion always took a much larger share, leaving the Fox with a very small portion, which the Fox was not happy about at all. So, he decided to go out on his own. He started by attempting to steal a lamb from a flock of sheep, but the shepherd noticed him and unleashed his dogs. Now the hunter became the hunted, and soon the dogs caught him and took him down.
Better servitude with safety than freedom with danger.
Better to be safe in servitude than to be free and in danger.
THE QUACK DOCTOR
A certain man fell sick and took to his bed. He consulted a number of doctors from time to time, and they all, with one exception, told him that his life was in no immediate danger, but that his illness would probably last a considerable time. The one who took a different view of his case, who was also the last to be consulted, bade him prepare for the worst: "You have not twenty-four hours to live," said he, "and I fear I can do nothing." As it turned out, however, he was quite wrong; for at the end of a few days the sick man quitted his bed and took a walk abroad, looking, it is true, as pale as a ghost. In the course of his walk he met the Doctor who had prophesied his death. "Dear me," said the latter, "how do you do? You are fresh from the other world, no doubt. Pray, how are our departed friends getting on there?" "Most comfortably," replied the other, "for they have drunk the water of oblivion, and have forgotten all the troubles of life. By the way, just before I left, the authorities were making arrangements to prosecute all the doctors, because they won't let sick men die in the course of nature, but use their arts to keep them alive. They were going to charge you along with the rest, till I assured them that you were no doctor, but a mere impostor."
A man got sick and stayed in bed. He saw several doctors over time, and they all told him that, except for one, his life wasn’t in immediate danger but that his illness would likely last a long time. The one doctor who thought differently, and who was the last to be consulted, told him to prepare for the worst: "You have less than twenty-four hours to live," he said, "and I’m afraid there’s nothing I can do." However, he was completely wrong; a few days later, the sick man got out of bed and took a walk outside, looking, of course, as pale as a ghost. During his walk, he ran into the doctor who had predicted his death. "Oh my," said the doctor, "how are you? You must have just come from the other side. Tell me, how are our friends doing over there?" "Quite well," the man replied, "because they’ve drunk the water of forgetfulness and have left all life’s troubles behind. By the way, just before I departed, the authorities were planning to go after all the doctors because they don’t let sick people die naturally and instead use their skills to keep them alive. They were going to include you in the charges until I told them you weren't a doctor, just a fraud."
THE LION, THE WOLF, AND THE FOX
A Lion, infirm with age, lay sick in his den, and all the beasts of the forest came to inquire after his health with the exception of the Fox. The Wolf thought this was a good opportunity for paying off old scores against the Fox, so he called the attention of the Lion to his absence, and said, "You see, sire, that we have all come to see how you are except the Fox, who hasn't come near you, and doesn't care whether you are well or ill." Just then the Fox came in and heard the last words of the Wolf. The Lion roared at him in deep displeasure, but he begged to be allowed to explain his absence, and said, "Not one of them cares for you so much as I, sire, for all the time I have been going round to the doctors and trying to find a cure for your illness." "And may I ask if you have found one?" said the Lion. "I have, sire," said the Fox, "and it is this: you must flay a Wolf and wrap yourself in his skin while it is still warm." The Lion accordingly turned to the Wolf and struck him dead with one blow of his paw, in order to try the Fox's prescription; but the Fox laughed and said to himself, "That's what comes of stirring up ill-will."
A lion, old and sick, lay in his den, and all the animals of the forest came to check on him except for the fox. The wolf saw this as a chance to settle old scores with the fox, so he pointed out the fox's absence to the lion and said, "You see, Your Majesty, everyone is here to see how you are, except the fox, who hasn't bothered to come and clearly doesn't care if you're well or sick." Just then, the fox arrived and overheard the wolf’s last words. The lion roared at him in anger, but the fox asked for a chance to explain his absence and said, "No one here cares for you more than I do, Your Majesty. I've been out looking for doctors to find a cure for your illness." "And may I ask if you've found one?" the lion replied. "I have, Your Majesty," said the fox, "and it is this: you should skin a wolf and wrap yourself in his fresh hide." The lion then turned to the wolf and struck him dead with one swipe of his paw to test the fox's advice; but the fox just laughed to himself, thinking, "That's what you get for stirring up trouble."
HERCULES AND PLUTUS
When Hercules was received among the gods and was entertained at a banquet by Jupiter, he responded courteously to the greetings of all with the exception of Plutus, the god of wealth. When Plutus approached him, he cast his eyes upon the ground, and turned away and pretended not to see him. Jupiter was surprised at this conduct on his part, and asked why, after having been so cordial with all the other gods, he had behaved like that to Plutus. "Sire," said Hercules, "I do not like Plutus, and I will tell you why. When we were on earth together I always noticed that he was to be found in the company of scoundrels."
When Hercules was welcomed among the gods and was treated to a banquet by Jupiter, he politely responded to the greetings of everyone except Plutus, the god of wealth. When Plutus approached him, he looked down, turned away, and acted like he didn't see him. Jupiter was surprised by this behavior and asked why, after being so friendly with all the other gods, he had acted that way toward Plutus. "Sir," said Hercules, "I don't like Plutus, and I'll tell you why. When we were on earth together, I always noticed that he hung out with a bunch of dishonest people."
THE FOX AND THE LEOPARD
A Fox and a Leopard were disputing about their looks, and each claimed to be the more handsome of the two. The Leopard said, "Look at my smart coat; you have nothing to match that." But the Fox replied, "Your coat may be smart, but my wits are smarter still."
A Fox and a Leopard were arguing about who was better looking, and each insisted they were the more attractive one. The Leopard said, "Check out my stunning coat; you can't compete with that." But the Fox responded, "Your coat may be stunning, but my smarts are even better."
THE FOX AND THE HEDGEHOG
A Fox, in swimming across a rapid river, was swept away by the current and carried a long way downstream in spite of his struggles, until at last, bruised and exhausted, he managed to scramble on to dry ground from a backwater. As he lay there unable to move, a swarm of horseflies settled on him and sucked his blood undisturbed, for he was too weak even to shake them off. A Hedgehog saw him, and asked if he should brush away the flies that were tormenting him; but the Fox replied, "Oh, please, no, not on any account, for these flies have sucked their fill and are taking very little from me now; but, if you drive them off, another swarm of hungry ones will come and suck all the blood I have left, and leave me without a drop in my veins."
A Fox, while swimming across a fast river, was swept away by the current and carried a long way downstream despite his struggles. Finally, bruised and exhausted, he managed to scramble onto dry land from a backwater. As he lay there unable to move, a swarm of horseflies settled on him and drank his blood undisturbed, as he was too weak to even shake them off. A Hedgehog saw him and asked if he should brush away the flies that were tormenting him. But the Fox replied, "Oh, please, no, not at all. These flies have had their fill and are taking very little from me now. But if you drive them off, another hungry swarm will come and drain the last of my blood, leaving me with nothing."
THE CROW AND THE RAVEN
A Crow became very jealous of a Raven, because the latter was regarded by men as a bird of omen which foretold the future, and was accordingly held in great respect by them. She was very anxious to get the same sort of reputation herself; and, one day, seeing some travellers approaching, she flew on to a branch of a tree at the roadside and cawed as loud as she could. The travellers were in some dismay at the sound, for they feared it might be a bad omen; till one of them, spying the Crow, said to his companions, "It's all right, my friends, we can go on without fear, for it's only a crow and that means nothing."
A Crow became really jealous of a Raven because the Raven was seen by people as a bird that predicted the future and was highly respected for it. The Crow desperately wanted the same kind of reputation. One day, when she saw some travelers approaching, she flew up to a branch of a tree by the road and cawed as loudly as she could. The travelers were a bit alarmed by the sound, fearing it might be a bad sign, until one of them spotted the Crow and said to his friends, "It's okay, guys, we can keep going without any worry, because it’s just a crow, and that doesn’t mean anything."
Those who pretend to be something they are not only make themselves ridiculous.
People who pretend to be something they’re not only make themselves look foolish.
THE WITCH
A Witch professed to be able to avert the anger of the gods by means of charms, of which she alone possessed the secret; and she drove a brisk trade, and made a fat livelihood out of it. But certain persons accused her of black magic and carried her before the judges, and demanded that she should be put to death for dealings with the Devil. She was found guilty and condemned to death: and one of the judges said to her as she was leaving the dock, "You say you can avert the anger of the gods. How comes it, then, that you have failed to disarm the enmity of men?"
A witch claimed she could calm the gods' anger with spells that only she knew. She was doing well and making a good living from it. But some people accused her of dark magic and brought her before the judges, demanding she be executed for working with the Devil. She was found guilty and sentenced to death. One of the judges told her as she left the stand, "You say you can calm the gods' anger. So why couldn’t you stop the hatred of humans?"
THE OLD MAN AND DEATH
An Old Man cut himself a bundle of faggots in a wood and started to carry them home. He had a long way to go, and was tired out before he had got much more than half-way. Casting his burden on the ground, he called upon Death to come and release him from his life of toil. The words were scarcely out of his mouth when, much to his dismay, Death stood before him and professed his readiness to serve him. He was almost frightened out of his wits, but he had enough presence of mind to stammer out, "Good sir, if you'd be so kind, pray help me up with my burden again."
An old man gathered a bundle of sticks in the woods and set off to carry them home. He had a long journey ahead and was exhausted by the time he reached just about halfway. Dropping his load on the ground, he cried out for Death to come and free him from his hard life. As soon as he finished speaking, to his shock, Death appeared before him and said he was ready to help. The old man was nearly terrified, but he managed to gather his thoughts long enough to say, "Please, if you wouldn’t mind, could you help me lift my burden back up?"
THE MISER
A Miser sold everything he had, and melted down his hoard of gold into a single lump, which he buried secretly in a field. Every day he went to look at it, and would sometimes spend long hours gloating over his treasure. One of his men noticed his frequent visits to the spot, and one day watched him and discovered his secret. Waiting his opportunity, he went one night and dug up the gold and stole it. Next day the Miser visited the place as usual, and, finding his treasure gone, fell to tearing his hair and groaning over his loss. In this condition he was seen by one of his neighbours, who asked him what his trouble was. The Miser told him of his misfortune; but the other replied, "Don't take it so much to heart, my friend; put a brick into the hole, and take a look at it every day: you won't be any worse off than before, for even when you had your gold it was of no earthly use to you."
A miser sold everything he owned and melted down his stash of gold into a single lump, which he secretly buried in a field. Every day, he would go check on it and sometimes spend hours just admiring his treasure. One of his workers noticed his frequent visits to the spot, and one day he watched him and figured out his secret. Waiting for the right moment, he went one night, dug up the gold, and stole it. The next day, the miser went to the place as usual, and when he found his treasure gone, he began tearing his hair out and moaning over his loss. In this state, a neighbor saw him and asked what was wrong. The miser told him about his misfortune, but the neighbor replied, "Don't take it so hard, my friend; just put a brick in the hole and look at it every day: you won't be any worse off than before, because even when you had your gold, it was of no use to you."
THE FOXES AND THE RIVER
A number of Foxes assembled on the bank of a river and wanted to drink; but the current was so strong and the water looked so deep and dangerous that they didn't dare to do so, but stood near the edge encouraging one another not to be afraid. At last one of them, to shame the rest, and show how brave he was, said, "I am not a bit frightened! See, I'll step right into the water!" He had no sooner done so than the current swept him off his feet. When the others saw him being carried down-stream they cried, "Don't go and leave us! Come back and show us where we too can drink with safety." But he replied, "I'm afraid I can't yet: I want to go to the seaside, and this current will take me there nicely. When I come back I'll show you with pleasure."
A group of foxes gathered by a riverbank, wanting to drink, but the current was really strong and the water looked deep and dangerous, so they didn’t dare go in. They stood near the edge, trying to encourage each other not to be scared. Finally, one of them, wanting to impress the others and prove he was brave, said, "I’m not scared at all! Look, I'll step right into the water!" As soon as he did, the current knocked him off his feet. When the others saw him being swept downstream, they shouted, "Don't leave us! Come back and show us where we can safely drink too." But he replied, "I’m afraid I can’t right now: I want to go to the seaside, and this current will take me there just fine. When I come back, I’ll be happy to show you."
THE HORSE AND THE STAG
There was once a Horse who used to graze in a meadow which he had all to himself. But one day a Stag came into the meadow, and said he had as good a right to feed there as the Horse, and moreover chose all the best places for himself. The Horse, wishing to be revenged upon his unwelcome visitor, went to a man and asked if he would help him to turn out the Stag. "Yes," said the man, "I will by all means; but I can only do so if you let me put a bridle in your mouth and mount on your back." The Horse agreed to this, and the two together very soon turned the Stag out of the pasture: but when that was done, the Horse found to his dismay that in the man he had got a master for good.
Once there was a Horse who grazed in a meadow all on his own. One day, a Stag came into the meadow and claimed he had just as much right to eat there as the Horse, and he started to take all the best spots for himself. The Horse, wanting to get back at this unwanted visitor, went to a man and asked for help in getting rid of the Stag. "Sure," said the man, "I'll help you, but only if you let me put a bridle in your mouth and ride on your back." The Horse agreed, and together they quickly chased the Stag out of the pasture. But once that was done, the Horse realized with horror that he had now ended up with the man as his permanent master.
THE FOX AND THE BRAMBLE
In making his way through a hedge a Fox missed his footing and caught at a Bramble to save himself from falling. Naturally, he got badly scratched, and in disgust he cried to the Bramble, "It was your help I wanted, and see how you have treated me! I'd sooner have fallen outright." The Bramble, interrupting him, replied, "You must have lost your wits, my friend, to catch at me, who am myself always catching at others."
While navigating a hedge, a Fox lost his footing and grabbed onto a bramble to avoid falling. Naturally, he ended up getting scratched up badly and, feeling frustrated, shouted at the bramble, "I needed your help, and look how you treated me! I would have preferred to just fall!" The bramble interrupted him, saying, "You must have lost your mind, my friend, to grab onto me, someone who is always snagging others."
THE FOX AND THE SNAKE
A Snake, in crossing a river, was carried away by the current, but managed to wriggle on to a bundle of thorns which was floating by, and was thus carried at a great rate down-stream. A Fox caught sight of it from the bank as it went whirling along, and called out, "Gad! the passenger fits the ship!"
A Snake was crossing a river when the current swept it away, but it managed to grab onto a bundle of thorns floating by, getting carried downstream quickly. A Fox saw it from the bank as it was being swept along and shouted, "Wow! The passenger fits the ship!"
THE LION, THE FOX, AND THE STAG
A Lion lay sick in his den, unable to provide himself with food. So he said to his friend the Fox, who came to ask how he did, "My good friend, I wish you would go to yonder wood and beguile the big Stag, who lives there, to come to my den: I have a fancy to make my dinner off a stag's heart and brains." The Fox went to the wood and found the Stag and said to him, "My dear sir, you're in luck. You know the Lion, our King: well, he's at the point of death, and has appointed you his successor to rule over the beasts. I hope you won't forget that I was the first to bring you the good news. And now I must be going back to him; and, if you take my advice, you'll come too and be with him at the last." The Stag was highly flattered, and followed the Fox to the Lion's den, suspecting nothing. No sooner had he got inside than the Lion sprang upon him, but he misjudged his spring, and the Stag got away with only his ears torn, and returned as fast as he could to the shelter of the wood. The Fox was much mortified, and the Lion, too, was dreadfully disappointed, for he was getting very hungry in spite of his illness. So he begged the Fox to have another try at coaxing the Stag to his den. "It'll be almost impossible this time," said the Fox, "but I'll try"; and off he went to the wood a second time, and found the Stag resting and trying to recover from his fright. As soon as he saw the Fox he cried, "You scoundrel, what do you mean by trying to lure me to my death like that? Take yourself off, or I'll do you to death with my horns." But the Fox was entirely shameless. "What a coward you were," said he; "surely you didn't think the Lion meant any harm? Why, he was only going to whisper some royal secrets into your ear when you went off like a scared rabbit. You have rather disgusted him, and I'm not sure he won't make the wolf King instead, unless you come back at once and show you've got some spirit. I promise you he won't hurt you, and I will be your faithful servant." The Stag was foolish enough to be persuaded to return, and this time the Lion made no mistake, but overpowered him, and feasted right royally upon his carcase. The Fox, meanwhile, watched his chance and, when the Lion wasn't looking, filched away the brains to reward him for his trouble. Presently the Lion began searching for them, of course without success: and the Fox, who was watching him, said, "I don't think it's much use your looking for the brains: a creature who twice walked into a Lion's den can't have got any."
A Lion was sick in his den and couldn't get food for himself. He asked his friend the Fox, who came to check on him, "Hey, could you go to that woods over there and trick the big Stag living there into coming to my den? I really want to have a stag’s heart and brains for dinner." The Fox went to the woods, found the Stag, and said, "Hey there! You're in for some good luck. You know the Lion, our King? Well, he's on his deathbed and has chosen you as his successor to lead the animals. Don’t forget that I was the first to share this great news with you. I have to head back to him, and you should definitely come along to be with him at the end." The Stag, feeling flattered, followed the Fox to the Lion's den, unaware of the trap. As soon as he got inside, the Lion pounced on him but misjudged the leap, and the Stag narrowly escaped with just torn ears, quickly returning to the safety of the woods. The Fox felt embarrassed, and the Lion was frustrated, getting hungrier despite his illness. He urged the Fox to try again to bring the Stag. "This will be really tough," the Fox said, "but I’ll give it a shot." He went back to the woods again and found the Stag resting, still shaken. The Stag shouted, "You scoundrel! Why are you trying to lead me to my death? Get lost or I'll gore you with my horns!" But the Fox was completely unashamed. "What a coward you are," he replied; "did you really think the Lion meant any harm? He just wanted to share some royal secrets with you when you bolted like a scared rabbit. You’ve really disappointed him, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he makes the wolf King instead, unless you come back right now and show you’ve got some guts. I promise he won't hurt you, and I’ll be your loyal servant." The Stag was foolish enough to be convinced to return, and this time the Lion didn’t miss, overpowering him and enjoying a royal feast on his body. Meanwhile, the Fox waited for his chance and, when the Lion wasn't looking, snatched away the brains as a reward for his efforts. Soon the Lion started searching for them but found nothing. The Fox, watching him, said, "I don’t think it’s going to help to look for the brains: a creature that walked into a Lion's den twice couldn't possibly have any."
THE MAN WHO LOST HIS SPADE
A Man was engaged in digging over his vineyard, and one day on coming to work he missed his Spade. Thinking it may have been stolen by one of his labourers, he questioned them closely, but they one and all denied any knowledge of it. He was not convinced by their denials, and insisted that they should all go to the town and take oath in a temple that they were not guilty of the theft. This was because he had no great opinion of the simple country deities, but thought that the thief would not pass undetected by the shrewder gods of the town. When they got inside the gates the first thing they heard was the town crier proclaiming a reward for information about a thief who had stolen something from the city temple. "Well," said the Man to himself, "it strikes me I had better go back home again. If these town gods can't detect the thieves who steal from their own temples, it's scarcely likely they can tell me who stole my Spade."
A man was busy digging in his vineyard when one day he arrived at work and realized his spade was missing. Assuming one of his laborers might have taken it, he asked them all directly, but each one denied knowing anything about it. He wasn’t convinced by their denials and insisted they all go to town and swear in a temple that they weren't guilty of the theft. This was because he didn’t think much of the simple country gods and believed the thief wouldn’t escape the notice of the smarter city gods. Once they arrived at the town, the first thing they heard was the town crier announcing a reward for information about a thief who had stolen something from the city temple. "Well," the man thought to himself, "I might as well head back home. If these city gods can’t figure out who’s stealing from their own temples, there’s no way they’ll know who took my spade."
THE PARTRIDGE AND THE FOWLER
A Fowler caught a Partridge in his nets, and was just about to wring its neck when it made a piteous appeal to him to spare its life and said, "Do not kill me, but let me live and I will repay you for your kindness by decoying other partridges into your nets." "No," said the Fowler, "I will not spare you. I was going to kill you anyhow, and after that treacherous speech you thoroughly deserve your fate."
A birdcatcher caught a partridge in his nets and was just about to break its neck when it made a sad plea for its life, saying, "Please don't kill me. Let me live, and I will repay your kindness by luring other partridges into your nets." "No," said the birdcatcher, "I won't spare you. I was going to kill you anyway, and after that deceitful speech, you completely deserve your fate."
THE RUNAWAY SLAVE
A Slave, being discontented with his lot, ran away from his master. He was soon missed by the latter, who lost no time in mounting his horse and setting out in pursuit of the fugitive. He presently came up with him, and the Slave, in the hope of avoiding capture, slipped into a treadmill and hid himself there. "Aha," said his master, "that's the very place for you, my man!"
A slave, unhappy with his situation, ran away from his master. His master quickly noticed he was gone and wasted no time getting on his horse to chase after him. Soon, he caught up to the slave, who, hoping to escape capture, slipped into a treadmill and hid there. "Aha," said his master, "that's the perfect place for you, my man!"
THE HUNTER AND THE WOODMAN
A Hunter was searching in the forest for the tracks of a lion, and, catching sight presently of a Woodman engaged in felling a tree, he went up to him and asked him if he had noticed a lion's footprints anywhere about, or if he knew where his den was. The Woodman answered, "If you will come with me, I will show you the lion himself." The Hunter turned pale with fear, and his teeth chattered as he replied, "Oh, I'm not looking for the lion, thanks, but only for his tracks."
A hunter was scouring the forest for lion tracks when he spotted a woodcutter busy chopping down a tree. He approached the woodcutter and asked if he had seen any lion footprints nearby or knew where the lion's den was. The woodcutter replied, "If you follow me, I can show you the lion himself." The hunter went pale with fear, and his teeth started to chatter as he responded, "Oh, I'm not looking for the lion, thanks, just his tracks."
THE SERPENT AND THE EAGLE
An Eagle swooped down upon a Serpent and seized it in his talons with the intention of carrying it off and devouring it. But the Serpent was too quick for him and had its coils round him in a moment; and then there ensued a life-and-death struggle between the two. A countryman, who was a witness of the encounter, came to the assistance of the Eagle, and succeeded in freeing him from the Serpent and enabling him to escape. In revenge the Serpent spat some of his poison into the man's drinking-horn. Heated with his exertions, the man was about to slake his thirst with a draught from the horn, when the Eagle knocked it out of his hand, and spilled its contents upon the ground.
An Eagle swooped down on a Serpent and snatched it up in its talons, planning to carry it off and eat it. But the Serpent was too quick, wrapping its coils around the Eagle in no time. This led to a fierce struggle between the two. A farmer who witnessed the fight came to help the Eagle and managed to free it from the Serpent, allowing it to escape. In retaliation, the Serpent spat some of its poison into the man’s drinking horn. Overheated from his efforts, the man was about to quench his thirst with a drink from the horn when the Eagle knocked it from his hand, spilling its contents on the ground.
One good turn deserves another.
One good deed deserves another.
THE ROGUE AND THE ORACLE
A Rogue laid a wager that he would prove the Oracle at Delphi to be untrustworthy by procuring from it a false reply to an inquiry by himself. So he went to the temple on the appointed day with a small bird in his hand, which he concealed under the folds of his cloak, and asked whether what he held in his hand were alive or dead. If the Oracle said "dead," he meant to produce the bird alive: if the reply was "alive," he intended to wring its neck and show it to be dead. But the Oracle was one too many for him, for the answer he got was this: "Stranger, whether the thing that you hold in your hand be alive or dead is a matter that depends entirely on your own will."
A schemer made a bet that he could prove the Oracle at Delphi to be fake by getting a false answer to a question he asked. So, on the designated day, he went to the temple with a small bird hidden under his cloak and asked whether the bird in his hand was alive or dead. If the Oracle said "dead," he planned to show the bird alive; if it said "alive," he intended to break its neck and show it dead. However, the Oracle outsmarted him with this answer: "Stranger, whether the thing you hold in your hand is alive or dead depends entirely on your own choice."
THE HORSE AND THE ASS
A Horse, proud of his fine harness, met an Ass on the high-road. As the Ass with his heavy burden moved slowly out of the way to let him pass, the Horse cried out impatiently that he could hardly resist kicking him to make him move faster. The Ass held his peace, but did not forget the other's insolence. Not long afterwards the Horse became broken-winded, and was sold by his owner to a farmer. One day, as he was drawing a dung-cart, he met the Ass again, who in turn derided him and said, "Aha! you never thought to come to this, did you, you who were so proud! Where are all your gay trappings now?"
A Horse, proud of his fancy harness, encountered an Ass on the road. As the Ass, burdened heavily, moved slowly out of the way, the Horse impatiently shouted that he could barely resist kicking him to make him hurry. The Ass stayed silent but didn’t forget the Horse’s rudeness. Soon after, the Horse became out of shape and was sold by his owner to a farmer. One day, while pulling a dung cart, he saw the Ass again, who mocked him and said, "Aha! You never thought you'd end up like this, did you, you who were so proud! Where are all your fancy decorations now?"
THE DOG CHASING A WOLF
A Dog was chasing a Wolf, and as he ran he thought what a fine fellow he was, and what strong legs he had, and how quickly they covered the ground. "Now, there's this Wolf," he said to himself, "what a poor creature he is: he's no match for me, and he knows it and so he runs away." But the Wolf looked round just then and said, "Don't you imagine I'm running away from you, my friend: it's your master I'm afraid of."
A dog was chasing a wolf, and while he ran, he thought about what a great dog he was, how strong his legs were, and how fast he was able to run. "Look at this wolf," he said to himself, "what a weak creature he is: he can't compete with me, and he knows it, so he's running away." But just then, the wolf looked back and said, "Don't think I'm running away from you, my friend; it's your owner I'm scared of."
GRIEF AND HIS DUE
When Jupiter was assigning the various gods their privileges, it so happened that Grief was not present with the rest: but when all had received their share, he too entered and claimed his due. Jupiter was at a loss to know what to do, for there was nothing left for him. However, at last he decided that to him should belong the tears that are shed for the dead. Thus it is the same with Grief as it is with the other gods. The more devoutly men render to him his due, the more lavish is he of that which he has to bestow. It is not well, therefore, to mourn long for the departed; else Grief, whose sole pleasure is in such mourning, will be quick to send fresh cause for tears.
When Jupiter was distributing privileges among the gods, Grief happened to be absent at the time. But once everyone else had received their share, he came in and claimed what was rightfully his. Jupiter was unsure of what to do since there was nothing left for him. Eventually, he decided that Grief would be entitled to the tears shed for the dead. Just like the other gods, Grief rewards those who honor him with their mourning. So, it’s not a good idea to grieve for too long, because Grief, whose only joy comes from such mourning, will quickly bring about more reasons to cry.
THE HAWK, THE KITE, AND THE PIGEONS
The Pigeons in a certain dovecote were persecuted by a Kite, who every now and then swooped down and carried off one of their number. So they invited a Hawk into the dovecote to defend them against their enemy. But they soon repented of their folly: for the Hawk killed more of them in a day than the Kite had done in a year.
The pigeons in a certain dove house were harassed by a kite, which occasionally swooped down and grabbed one of them. So, they invited a hawk into the dove house to protect them from their enemy. But they quickly regretted their decision: the hawk killed more of them in a day than the kite had in a year.
THE WOMAN AND THE FARMER
A Woman, who had lately lost her husband, used to go every day to his grave and lament her loss. A Farmer, who was engaged in ploughing not far from the spot, set eyes upon the Woman and desired to have her for his wife: so he left his plough and came and sat by her side, and began to shed tears himself. She asked him why he wept; and he replied, "I have lately lost my wife, who was very dear to me, and tears ease my grief." "And I," said she, "have lost my husband." And so for a while they mourned in silence. Then he said, "Since you and I are in like case, shall we not do well to marry and live together? I shall take the place of your dead husband, and you, that of my dead wife." The Woman consented to the plan, which indeed seemed reasonable enough: and they dried their tears. Meanwhile, a thief had come and stolen the oxen which the Farmer had left with his plough. On discovering the theft, he beat his breast and loudly bewailed his loss. When the Woman heard his cries, she came and said, "Why, are you weeping still?" To which he replied, "Yes, and I mean it this time."
A woman who had recently lost her husband went to his grave every day to mourn her loss. A farmer, who was plowing nearby, noticed her and wanted to make her his wife. So he left his plow, came over, and sat beside her, starting to cry himself. She asked him why he was crying, and he replied, "I recently lost my wife, who meant everything to me, and crying helps ease my sorrow." "And I," she said, "have lost my husband." They sat together in silence, mourning. Then he suggested, "Since we’re both in the same situation, why don’t we marry and live together? I can be your deceased husband, and you can be my deceased wife." The woman agreed, as it seemed reasonable, and they wiped their tears away. Meanwhile, a thief came and stole the oxen the farmer had left with his plow. When he realized his oxen were gone, he started to beat his chest and loudly lament his loss. When the woman heard his cries, she came over and said, "Why are you still crying?" He replied, "Yes, and this time I really mean it."
PROMETHEUS AND THE MAKING OF MAN
At the bidding of Jupiter, Prometheus set about the creation of Man and the other animals. Jupiter, seeing that Mankind, the only rational creatures, were far outnumbered by the irrational beasts, bade him redress the balance by turning some of the latter into men. Prometheus did as he was bidden, and this is the reason why some people have the forms of men but the souls of beasts.
At the request of Jupiter, Prometheus began creating Man and the other animals. Jupiter, noticing that humans, the only rational beings, were greatly outnumbered by the irrational animals, instructed him to fix the imbalance by transforming some of them into men. Prometheus followed his orders, and that's why some people have the appearance of humans but the instincts of beasts.
THE SWALLOW AND THE CROW
A Swallow was once boasting to a Crow about her birth. "I was once a princess," said she, "the daughter of a King of Athens, but my husband used me cruelly, and cut out my tongue for a slight fault. Then, to protect me from further injury, I was turned by Juno into a bird." "You chatter quite enough as it is," said the Crow. "What you would have been like if you hadn't lost your tongue, I can't think."
A Swallow was once bragging to a Crow about her origins. "I used to be a princess," she said, "the daughter of a King of Athens, but my husband treated me horribly and cut out my tongue for a minor mistake. To keep me safe from more harm, Juno transformed me into a bird." "You already talk plenty as it is," said the Crow. "I can’t imagine how much you would have talked if you hadn't lost your tongue."
THE HUNTER AND THE HORSEMAN
A Hunter went out after game, and succeeded in catching a hare, which he was carrying home with him when he met a man on horseback, who said to him, "You have had some sport I see, sir," and offered to buy it. The Hunter readily agreed; but the Horseman had no sooner got the hare in his hands than he set spurs to his horse and went off at full gallop. The Hunter ran after him for some little distance; but it soon dawned upon him that he had been tricked, and he gave up trying to overtake the Horseman, and, to save his face, called after him as loud as he could, "All right, sir, all right, take your hare: it was meant all along as a present."
A Hunter went out looking for game and managed to catch a hare, which he was carrying home when he ran into a man on horseback. The man said, "Looks like you had some fun, sir," and offered to buy it. The Hunter agreed without hesitation; but as soon as the Horseman had the hare, he urged his horse into a full gallop and took off. The Hunter chased him for a short distance, but soon realized he had been tricked, so he stopped trying to catch up and, to save face, shouted after him as loudly as he could, "No problem, sir, no problem, take your hare: I was just intending it as a gift all along."
THE GOATHERD AND THE WILD GOATS
A Goatherd was tending his goats out at pasture when he saw a number of Wild Goats approach and mingle with his flock. At the end of the day he drove them home and put them all into the pen together. Next day the weather was so bad that he could not take them out as usual: so he kept them at home in the pen, and fed them there. He only gave his own goats enough food to keep them from starving, but he gave the Wild Goats as much as they could eat and more; for he was very anxious for them to stay, and he thought that if he fed them well they wouldn't want to leave him. When the weather improved, he took them all out to pasture again; but no sooner had they got near the hills than the Wild Goats broke away from the flock and scampered off. The Goatherd was very much disgusted at this, and roundly abused them for their ingratitude. "Rascals!" he cried, "to run away like that after the way I've treated you!" Hearing this, one of them turned round and said, "Oh, yes, you treated us all right—too well, in fact; it was just that that put us on our guard. If you treat newcomers like ourselves so much better than your own flock, it's more than likely that, if another lot of strange goats joined yours, _we_ should then be neglected in favour of the last comers."
A goatherd was taking care of his goats in the pasture when he saw a group of wild goats come over and mix with his flock. At the end of the day, he brought them all home and put them in the pen together. The next day, the weather was so bad that he couldn't take them out as usual, so he kept them in the pen and fed them there. He gave his own goats just enough food to keep them from starving, but he fed the wild goats as much as they could eat and even more because he was really hoping they would stay, thinking that if he took good care of them, they wouldn’t want to leave him. When the weather got better, he took them all out to pasture again; but as soon as they got close to the hills, the wild goats broke away from the flock and ran off. The goatherd was very upset about this and scolded them for being ungrateful. “You rascals!” he shouted, “to run away like that after everything I’ve done for you!” Hearing this, one of them turned around and said, “Oh, yes, you treated us well—too well, actually; that’s what made us cautious. If you treat newcomers like us better than your own goats, it’s likely that if another bunch of strange goats joins yours, we would then be ignored in favor of the last arrivals.”
THE NIGHTINGALE AND THE SWALLOW
A Swallow, conversing with a Nightingale, advised her to quit the leafy coverts where she made her home, and to come and live with men, like herself, and nest under the shelter of their roofs. But the Nightingale replied, "Time was when I too, like yourself, lived among men: but the memory of the cruel wrongs I then suffered makes them hateful to me, and never again will I approach their dwellings."
A Swallow was talking to a Nightingale and suggested she leave the leafy areas where she lived and come live with people, like her, and build her nest under their roofs. But the Nightingale replied, "There was a time when I, like you, lived among humans: but the memory of the terrible wrongs I experienced back then makes them repulsive to me, and I will never go near their homes again."
The scene of past sufferings revives painful memories.
The sight of past struggles brings back painful memories.
THE TRAVELLER AND FORTUNE
A Traveller, exhausted with fatigue after a long journey, sank down at the very brink of a deep well and presently fell asleep. He was within an ace of falling in, when Dame Fortune appeared to him and touched him on the shoulder, cautioning him to move further away. "Wake up, good sir, I pray you," she said; "had you fallen into the well, the blame would have been thrown not on your own folly but on me, Fortune."
A traveler, worn out from a long journey, collapsed at the edge of a deep well and soon fell asleep. He was just about to fall in when Lady Luck appeared and touched his shoulder, warning him to move back. "Wake up, good sir, please," she said; "if you had fallen into the well, people would have blamed not your own mistake but me, Fortune."
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