A Stag, drinking from a crystal spring, saw himself mirrored in the clear water. Let us agree, said the Sun, that he is the stronger who can strip that Traveler of his cloak. No need of witnesses, said one of the hearers. Suppose this city is Rhodes. What did he tell you? He had heard that a Bear will not touch a dead body. Soon the Mouse line gave way before the attack and the whole army fled for cover. He tied the Mouse's leg to his own with a tough reed. But the Serpent's hold only tightened, and slowly the Eagle sank back to earth, gasping for breath. Yes, answered the Monkey, proudly. My family is one of the noblest in the city. Follow me if you can, he said, But the Peacock stood where he was among the birds of the barnyard, while the Crane soared in freedom far up into the blue sky.
Our best blessings are often the least appreciated.