[Illustration: THE TWO POTS.]
An Earthen Pot, and one of Brass, standing together upon the river's
brink, were both carried away by the flowing-in of the tide. The Earthen
Pot showed some uneasiness, as fearing he should be broken; but his
companion of Brass bid him be under no apprehensions, for that he would
take care of him.--'O,' replies the other, 'keep as far off as ever you
can, I entreat you; it is you I am most afraid of: for, whether the
stream dashes you against me, or me against you, I am sure to be the
sufferer; and therefore, I beg of you, do not let us come near one
another.'