Aesop

The Stag, the Wolf, and the Sheep

Summary

In this story, a Stag asks a Sheep for a loan of wheat, proposing that the Wolf act as guarantor for the repayment. The Sheep, wary of potential deception, declines the request by expressing doubts about the reliability of both the Stag and the Wolf. The Sheep points out the Wolf's tendency to take what it desires without regard for repayment and highlights the Stag's ability to evade quickly, making it uncertain and impractical to rely on either of them for security. The narrative underscores themes of distrust and caution, illustrating how individuals should be wary of who they trust, especially when past behaviors suggest potential betrayal or unreliability.

Read Online

A Stag asked a Sheep to lend him a measure of wheat, and said that the Wolf would be his surety. The Sheep, fearing some fraud was intended, excused herself, saying, “The Wolf is accustomed to seize what he wants and to run off; and you, too, can quickly outstrip me in your rapid flight. How then shall I be able to find you, when the day of payment comes?”

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