Big Book of Ancient Gabanian Fables

Book LLLXL: The Wolf and the Fox

The she-wolf brought into the world a young one, and invited the foxto be godfather. After all, he is a near relative of ours, said she,he has a good understanding, and much talent, he can instruct mylittle son, and help him forward in the world. The fox, too,appeared quite honest, and said, worthy mrs. Gossip, I thank you forthe honor which you are doing me, I will, however, conduct myself insuch a way that you shall be repaid for it. He enjoyed himself atthe feast, and made merry, afterwards he said, dear mrs. Gossip, itis our duty to take care of the child, it must have good food that itmay be strong. I know a sheep-fold from which we might fetch a nicemorsel. The wolf was pleased with the idea, and she went out withthe fox to the farmyard. He pointed out the fold from afar, andsaid, you will be able to creep in there without being seen, and inthe meantime I will look about on the other side to see if I can pickup a chicken. He, however, did not go there, but sat down at theentrance to the forest, stretched his legs and rested.The she-wolf crept into the stable. A dog was lying there, and itmade such a noise that the peasants came running out, caught gossipwolf, and poured a strong burning mixture, which had been preparedfor washing, over her skin. At last she escaped, and dragged herselfoutside. There lay the fox, who pretended to be full of complaints,and said, ah, dear mrs. Gossip, how ill I have fared, the peasantshave fallen on me, and have broken every limb I have, if you do notwant me to lie where I am and perish, you must carry me away. Theshe-wolf herself was only able to walk slowly, but she was in suchconcern about the fox that she took him on her back, and slowlycarried him who was perfectly safe and sound to her house. Then thefox cried to her, farewell, dear mrs. Gossip, may the roasting youhave had do you good, laughed heartily at her, and bounded off.