169. The Ass and the Old Shepherd



A SHEPHERD, watching his Ass feeding in a meadow, was alarmed all of a sudden by the cries of the enemy. He appealed to the Ass to fly with him, lest they should both be captured, but the animal lazily replied, "Why should I, pray? Do you think it likely the conqueror will place on me two sets of panniers?'

"No," rejoined the Shepherd.

"Then," said the Ass, "as long as I carry the panniers, what matters it to me whom I serve?'



In a change of government the poor change nothing beyond the name of their master.





170. The Kites and the Swans



TEE KITES of olden times, as well as the Swans, had the privilege of song. But having heard the neigh of the horse, they were so enchanted with the sound, that they tried to imitate it; and, in trying to neigh, they forgot how to sing.



The desire for imaginary benefits often involves the loss of present blessings.





171. The Wolves and the Sheepdogs



THE WOLVES thus addressed the Sheepdogs: "Why should you, who are like us in so many things, not be entirely of one mind with us, and live with us as brothers should? We differ from you in one point only. We live in freedom, but you bow down to and slave for men, who in return for your services flog you with whips and put collars on your necks. They make you also guard their sheep, and while they eat the mutton throw only the bones to you. If you will be persuaded by us, you will give us the sheep, and we will enjoy them in common, till we all are surfeited."

The Dogs listened favorably to these proposals, and, entering the den of the Wolves, they were set upon and torn to pieces.
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