The Lion and the Hare

Deep in the forest, a proud Lion ruled over all the animals. Every day, he called one animal to come to him to be eaten. The animals were very afraid.

The animals took turns, one by one. At last it was the small Hare's turn. The Hare did not want to be eaten, so he walked very, very slowly.

Because he walked so slowly, the Hare arrived very late. The angry Lion leaped straight toward him, roaring loudly. The Hare took a deep breath.

'Uncle Lion, wait!' said the Hare. 'I am sorry I am late. But I was stopped by another lion! He lives nearby, and he says he is the true master of this forest, not you.'

'What!' roared the Lion. 'Show him to me! I will teach him who rules this forest!'

'Come along then,' said the Hare. He led the Lion far away, deep into the forest, until they came to an old stone well.

The Hare peered down into the dark well. 'He was here just now,' said the Hare quietly.

The Lion leaned over and looked down into the well. Deep in the dark water, he saw another lion staring right back up at him.

The Lion shook his great mane, and the lion in the well shook its mane too. 'Show him to me!' the Lion roared, and a roar echoed right back up at him.

With one mighty leap, the Lion jumped into the well. There was a great splash, the water grew still, and the forest fell quiet.

All the forest animals danced and cheered together. They were safe at last! They sang, 'The Hare is small, but by his wit, he now has got the best of it!'

That night the forest grew soft and peaceful. Every little creature curled up to sleep, warm and snug. A clever mind is stronger than sharp claws.