A proclamation by the lion, king of animals, announced that he was sick, and wished each species to depute and send ambassadors to visit him.
“Let none for safety fear: His Majesty’s ill health and word of honor, both, are guarantees against his using tooth or claw.”
And so, this edict being issued, many beasts complied.
The foxes only stayed away. Explaining why, one said, “We duly thank the king, but must respectfully decline his invitation. Though our hearts applaud his guarantee, our minds—and eyes—misgive us. For we see quite plainly how his guests arrive, but not how they depart. We see their footprints going in, but we see none returning in the opposite direction.”
Let others’ mishaps teach you circumspection.