The Fox and the HedgehogA FOX swimming across a rapid river was carried by the force ofthe current into a very deep ravine, where he lay for a long timevery much bruised, sick, and unable to move.

　　A swarm of hungryblood-sucking flies settled upon him.

　　A Hedgehog, passing by,saw his anguish and inquired if he should drive away the fliesthat were tormenting him.

　　"By no means," replied the Fox; "praydo not molest them.""How is this?'

　　said the Hedgehog; "do younot want to be rid of them?'

　　"No," returned the Fox, "for theseflies which you see are full of blood, and sting me but little,and if you rid me of these which are already satiated, othersmore hungry will come in their place, and will drink up all theblood I have left."