One day, a long time ago, an old Miller and his Son were on their way to market with an Ass which they hoped to sell. So away he hurried to the Crane. When the Mice peeped out and saw him in that position, they thought he had been hung up there in punishment for some misdeed. But to his own flock, he gave only just enough food to keep them alive. Then, though the Tiger, the Bear, the Wolf, and all the savage beasts recited the most wicked deeds, all were excused and made to appear very saint-like and innocent. Then one day the Bullocks had a quarrel, and when the hungry Lion came to look at them and lick his chops as he was accustomed to do, he found them in separate corners of the field The grapes seemed ready to burst with juice, and the Fox's mouth watered as he gazed longingly at them. 'Down with all Cats,' is my motto! Then he heard the Mother's voice say: Hush, child, hush! Your feathers may do very well in spring, replied the Crow, but I don't remember ever having seen you around in winter, and that's when I enjoy myself most.
Self-help is the best help.