Page:The jade story book; stories from the Orient (IA jadestorybooksto00cous).pdf/105



a forest called Champak-Grove lived two friends, a Deer and a Crow. The Deer was roaming among the trees one day, when he was observed by a Jackal.

"Ho! Ho!" said the Jackal to himself, "If I can only win the confidence of this Deer, it may be that he will make a very fine meal for me." So he approached the Deer, and wished him a very good morning.

"Who are you?" said the Deer.

"I'm Small-wit, the Jackal," replied the other. "I live here all alone in the wood, and it is very lonely without anyone to talk to. It makes me very happy to know you, and I hope you will look upon me as your friend."

"Very well," said the Deer, so off they went together.