A THIEF came in the night to break into a house. He brought with him
several slices of meat in order to pacify the Housedog, so that he
would not alarm his master by barking. As the Thief threw him the
pieces of meat, the Dog said, “If you think to stop my mouth, you will
be greatly mistaken. This sudden kindness at your hands will only make
me more watchful, lest under these unexpected favours to myself, you
have some private ends to accomplish for your own benefit, and for my
master’s injury.”