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.
