The Sick Lion

A LION, unable from old age and infirmities to provide himself with

food by force, resolved to do so by artifice. He returned to his den,

and lying down there, pretended to be sick, taking care that his

sickness should be publicly known. The beasts expressed their sorrow,

and came one by one to his den, where the Lion devoured them. After

many of the beasts had thus disappeared, the Fox discovered the trick

and presenting himself to the Lion, stood on the outside of the cave,

at a respectful distance, and asked him how he was. “I am very

middling,” replied the Lion, “but why do you stand without? Pray enter

within to talk with me.” “No, thank you,” said the Fox. “I notice that

there are many prints of feet entering your cave, but I see no trace of

any returning.”

He is wise who is warned by the misfortunes of others.