The Tortoise and the King of Animals
The quadrupeds and birds assembled one day at an entertainment given by the King of Beasts. Both those who go on foot and those who fly were there.
The Tortoise arrived late because of his slow motion, and asked pardon for his want of punctuality.
“I have such a pleasant home,” said he, “that I never leave it without regret.”
“At some future time,” cried the Lion in a rage, “you will have a house of stone which you can never leave.”
This fable is addressed to those who, instead of keeping to their own vocation, are anxious to attend the entertainments of the great.