A Merchant, driving his Ass homeward from the seashore with a heavy load of salt, came to a river crossed by a shallow ford. The Miller did not like to be laughed at, so he told his son to climb up and ride. Here was the culprit who had brought misfortune on all of them! Mad with rage, the Lion struck fiercely at the Gnat, but only succeeded in tearing himself with his claws. At last the Lion decided to call a council. The foolish Grasshopper was taken in by the Owl's flattering words. Why, I never touched the gold. I couldn't think of spending any of it. The honor is not meant for you but for the image you are carrying.
It is unwise to treat old friends badly for the sake of new ones.