A Dog, running along the banks of the Nile, grew thirsty, but fearing
to be seized by the monsters of that river, he would not stop to
satiate his drought, but lapped as he ran.
A Crocodile, raising his head above the surface of the water, asked him
why he was in such a hurry. He had often, he said, wished for his
acquaintance, and should be glad to embrace the present opportunity.
"You do me great honour," said the Dog, "but it is to avoid such
companions as you that I am in so much haste!"