The Fox and the Partridge
The Fox having caught a Partridge was preparing to eat it. But the latter said:
“Blessed be God, who calls me to his kingdom, and delivers me from the evils of this world. But do you, Mr. Fox, render thanks to God for this feast upon me, which will be your great reward.”
The Fox sat down, looked up to heaven, and opened his mouth, saying:
“I thank thee, gracious God, for the excellent feast thou hast prepared for me.”
As he spoke, the Partridge slipped from his jaws, and flew away. Then the Fox said: “Fool and dotard that I am! I should have eaten first, and thanked God afterward.”
This fable warns us not to count on things that are promised, and not to thank anyone until we have actually received a favor.