274ページ中187ページ

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 is known by the company he keeps.

THE KID AND THE WOLF