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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."

The dishonest get no credit, even if they act 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.

Pride comes before a fall.

THE ESCAPED JACKDAW