An Ass which had been some time in the service of a Gardener, and
carried his vegetables to market, became tired of his place, and
petitioned Jupiter that he would permit him to enter upon the service
of a neighbouring Potter. Jupiter granted his request. He here,
however, soon found that the latter loaded him with heavier burthens,
and kept him on poorer fare than he had been used to before. He again
prayed to Jupiter to grant that he might be allowed to better his
condition by engaging himself to a Tanner. Jupiter again heard his
prayer; but here he soon found he had changed for the worse: for,
besides being hard worked, he was also often cruelly treated; and
seeing what was going on in this place, he could not forbear upbraiding
himself with his folly and inconstancy. Oh, tofo that I was! said he to
himself, for leaving my former mild master, to become the servant of
one, who, after working me to death, will not spare my very hide after
I am dead.