THE LION AND THE HARE

          In a certain forest a mighty lion used to kill and devour animals right and left. The animals hit upon a novel plan foil their safety. In a meeting it was decided to send one animal daily for the lion’s meal. In exchange the lion agreed not to kill any other animals.

          From that day the animals of the forest drew lots and selected the victim every day. The lion got his daily food and gave up hunting.

          One day the turn came for a hare to be sent to the lion. On the way the hare hit upon a clever plan to put an end to the lion and save himself.

          The hare reached the lion’s den long after the usual hour. The hungry lion grew furious with rage and roared out, “Wretch, why are you so late?“

          With all humility the hare replied, “My lord, it’s not my fault. I was chased by another lion. He said that he was the king of the forest and would not let me come.”

          “Show me the way,” roared the angry lion, “I must kill my rival.”

          The clever hare took the lion to the side of a deep well and told him that the lion was in it. In great rage the lion looked down the well and saw his own image. He took it for another lion. With a great roar he jumped into the well and was drowned.

Moral: Wit is better than strength.