But the carrion crows preferred hot meat
To such reptile food, and began to eat,
And piece after piece from his cheek they tore,—
Such torture he felt he could scarce endure;
So he said, "Good crow, if you'll raise your claw,
No fish I'll entice from the cool stream more.
The worms in their holes shall be safe, I'm sure;
While the dryest of crusts with pleasure I'll gnaw,
And won't dream of a trout though I'm hungry sore."
"We'll grant your request," said the crow; "but mind,