Page:The jade story book; stories from the Orient (IA jadestorybooksto00cous).pdf/127



was a small lake in Malwa called Lily-Water, and on its bank one day stood a Crane who seemed to be lost in thought.

It was the dry season and the water was low in the pond, in which were a good many fish. Now the Crane was very fond of fish, and he was trying to figure out a plan whereby he could satisfy his appetite.

At last he went to the water's edge, and there he sat down. He assumed a most dejected look, and appeared to be so miserable that a Crab, who had been watching him, asked him why he was so down-hearted.

"It is because I am thinking of all who live in this pond that I am so sad," said the Crane.

"Why should that be the reason?" asked the Crab.

"I will tell you," said the Crane. "This morning I heard the fishermen who live