FABLES. 



22 7 



THE FOX AND THE HEDGEHOG. 



A Eox, in swimming across a river, was forced 

 down by the rapidity of the stream to a place where 

 the bank was so steep and slippery, jthat he could 

 not ascend it. While he was struggling in this 

 situation, a swarm of flies settled on his head and 

 eyes, and tormented him grievously. A Hedgehog, 

 who saw and pitied his condition, offered to call in 

 the assistance of the Swallow to drive them away. 

 No, no, friend, replies the Fox, I thank you for 

 your kind offer; but it is better to let this swarm 

 alone, for they are already pretty well filled, and 

 should they be driven away, a fresh and more 

 hungry set would succeed them, and suck me until 

 I should not have a drop of blood left in my 

 veins. 



