A Mule had had a long rest and much good feeding. The Rabbit was quite angry for a Rabbit, and requested the Weasel to move out. But his plans were very much changed when he met a Lion, who, without making any excuses, took the Lamb away from him. Still he kept up a flow of sarcastic talk, just to exercise his wits and to have the fun of disputing. This answer took the Dolphin by surprise, and, turning his head, he now saw what it was he was carrying. Let me remind your lordship, said the Dog, his words interrupted now and then as he dodged a snap of the Wolf's teeth, how unpleasant it would be to eat me now. But though he washed and washed all day long, almost drowning himself at it, his feathers remained as black as ever. The Farmer knew how deadly the Snake could be, and yet he picked it up and put it in his bosom to warm it back to life. But instead of thinking, he dropped his bone and sprang at the Dog in the river, only to find himself swimming for dear life to reach the shore. Very well; now dance! And they turned their backs on the Grasshopper and went on with their work.
Honesty is the best policy.