A Fox, in swimming across a river, was forced down by the rapidity of
the stream to a place where the bank was so steep and slippery, that he
could not ascend it. While he was struggling in this situation, a swarm
of flies settled on his head and eyes, and tormented him grievously.
A Hedgehog, who saw and pitied his condition, offered to call in the
assistance of the Swallow to drive them away. No, no, friend, replies
the Fox, I thank you for your kind offer; but it is better to let this
swarm alone, for they are already pretty well filled, and should they
be driven away, a fresh and more hungry set would succeed them, and
suck me until I should not have a drop of blood left in my veins.