At sunset the bear met the fox.
They went across the frozen river until they came to a small hole in the ice.
"Now, Mr. Bear," said the fox, "sit down here on the ice and put your tail through the hole. You must keep still for a long while. That is the best way to catch fish.
Wait until a great many fish take hold of your tail. Then pull with all your might."
The bear sat very still for a long time.
At last he began to feel cold and he moved a little.
"Ow!" he cried, for his tail had begun freeze in the ice.
"Is it not time to pull out the fish?" said the bear.
"No, no," cried the fox.
"Wait until more fish have taken hold of your tail. You are very strong. You can wait a little longer."