Page:The jade story book; stories from the Orient (IA jadestorybooksto00cous).pdf/340

324 and we are many. For generations has this old well been our home, and it is not for you to say that we must go. Take our advice and seek another well, or trouble will visit you."

"You insignificant little creatures, how dare you address me in such manner," roared the Lion. "Why, in one minute I can swallow you all and you will make only the very smallest part of a mouthful for me. Know that when I speak all beasts of the forest and the wilderness bow before me, and tremble. Now fly away, all of you, for I am going to drink."

"We know how great is your renown," said the Mosquitoes, "but we do not fear you. If you wish to fight us we are very willing to have it so, but we will not allow you to destroy our home."

The Lion was now enraged more than he had ever been before. Such language to him, the King, meant that destruction must be meted out to those who dared to use it. He roared again, and made ready to kill the foolish Mosquitoes.

But he found that he had undertaken no