Aesop

The Partridge and the Fowler

Summary

This fable tells the story of a trapped Partridge that desperately pleads for its life by offering to betray other Partridges in exchange for freedom. The Fowler, a bird hunter, is unmoved by the Partridge's plea, as he finds the offer of betrayal to be dishonorable. He decides to kill the Partridge, reasoning that its willingness to endanger its own kind for self-preservation marks it as untrustworthy and disloyal. The moral of the story centers on the idea that self-serving betrayal is frowned upon, and that trust and integrity should hold greater value than personal gain. This tale can teach children about the importance of maintaining loyalty and integrity rather than resorting to deceit, even when faced with difficult situations.

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A Fowler caught a Partridge and was about to kill it. The Partridge earnestly begged him to spare his life, saying, “Pray, master, permit me to live and I will entice many Partridges to you in recompense for your mercy to me.” The Fowler replied, “I shall now with less scruple take your life, because you are willing to save it at the cost of betraying your friends and relations.”

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