"
The mule answered: "When you are in a crowd balk and throw the basket to
the ground. People will see it, all will be discovered, and your master
will leave you in peace."
The man had heard every word of this. He filled his basket with earth only.
When they arrived at a crowd of people the ass kicked and threw the load to
the ground. Her master beat her till she had enough. He applied himself to
gathering the treasure, and became a rich merchant.
He had at home some chickens and a dog. One day he went into the granary,
and a hen followed him and ate the grain. A cock said to her:
"Bring me a little."
She answered, "Eat for yourself."
The master began to laugh. His wife asked him:
"What are you laughing at?"
"Nothing."
"You are laughing at me."
"Not at all."
"You must tell me what you are laughing at."
"If I tell you I shall die."
"You shall tell me, and you shall die."
"To-night." He brought out some grain and said to his wife, "Give alms." He
invited the people, bade them to eat, and when they had gone he brought
food to the dog, but he would not eat.
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