The Lion and the Bull

The Lion and the Bull

A LION, greatly desiring to capture a Bull, and yet afraid to attack

him on account of his great size, resorted to a trick to ensure his

destruction. He approached the Bull and said, “I have slain a fine

sheep, my friend; and if you will come home and partake of him with me,

I shall be delighted to have your company.” The Lion said this in the

hope that, as the Bull was in the act of reclining to eat, he might

attack him to advantage, and make his meal on him. The Bull, on

approaching the Lion’s den, saw the huge spits and giant caldrons, and

no sign whatever of the sheep, and, without saying a word, quietly took

his departure. The Lion inquired why he went off so abruptly without a

word of salutation to his host, who had not given him any cause for

offense. “I have reasons enough,” said the Bull. “I see no indication

whatever of your having slaughtered a sheep, while I do see very

plainly every preparation for your dining on a bull.”