Lion. I will not. The deer is mine.
Mother Deer. O Lion, it is the only one I have. I beg of you, give it back to me.
Lion. A lion does not give back what he has taken. Be off, or I will eat you.
Scene II—Another Part of the Forest
Mother Deer. Can you not help me, animals? The lion has taken my little deer, the only one I had.
Elephant. I am sorry for you. But the lion is the king of the forest. He takes what he will and keeps what he likes. I cannot help you.
Mother Deer. [Goes on.] Can you not help me, Camel? You are always kind and gentle.
Camel. The lion did wrong to take your deer. He did a great wrong, but I cannot help you.
Mother Deer. [Goes on.] Surely, little jackal, you will help me.
Jackal. Sh! Sh! I’m afraid of the lion, myself. We’ve never been very good friends. I wish I could help you. Let me see. I have it! Go to Bunny Rabbit. He’s a little creature, but he’s wise and brave.