第255页 / 共274页

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."

THE HORSE AND THE STAG