After crossing a river, a Fox got its tail entangled in a bush and could not move. A number of Mosquitoes seeing its plight settled upon it and enjoyed a good meal undisturbed by its tail. A Hedgehog strolling by took pity upon the Fox and went up to it: "You are in a bad way, neighbor," said the Hedgehog. "Shall I relieve you by driving off those Mosquitoes who are sucking your blood?" "Thank you, Master Hedgehog," said the Fox, "but I would rather not." "Why, how is that?" asked the Hedgehog. "Well, you see," was the answer, "these Mosquitoes have had their fill; if you drive these away, others will come with fresh appetite and bleed me to death." |