A large dog was kept chained in a stable-yard, in the roof of one of the
out-buildings of which a raven had his abode. The dog and bird had
become great friends. Yet the latter could not help amusing himself at
the expense of his four-footed companion. Sometimes he would snatch a
piece of food from the dog's pan, often when he did not wish to eat it
himself. As the dog submitted without complaint at first, the raven
would come again and take another piece away, then bring it back just
within reach, and dangle it over the dog's nose. As soon as he opened
his mouth to catch it, the raven would dart off again out of his reach.
At other times he would hide a piece just beyond the length of the dog's
chain, and then, with a cunning look, perch upon his head.
Yet, mischievous as he was, the bird would never altogether run away
with the quadruped's food, but would after a while return it, with the
exception of any small bit which he might wish to keep for himself.
These tricks in no way offended the good-natured dog. He showed a
remarkable instance of his affection, when on one occasion the raven
happened to tumble into a tub of water, just beyond his range. Seeing
the poor bird struggling, he exerted all his strength, and dragged his
heavy kennel forward till he could put his head over the edge of the
tub, when he took the raven up in his mouth and laid him gently on the
ground to recover.