Original content

English translation

A fox was standing at the head of a road, keeping a watchful eye to the left and right, when suddenly a dark shape appeared in the distance. As it drew near, he saw that a ravening wolf and a large dog were coming along together in the guise of true friends and harmonious companions, the one having no suspicion of deceit from the other, nor the other any fear of harm from the one. The fox ran forward, greeted them, and duly paid his respects, saying: 'Praise be to God that the old rancor has turned into fresh affection, and the ancient enmity has been exchanged for a new friendship. But I wish to know: what is the cause of this union, and who is the reason for this security?' The dog said: 'The cause of our union is enmity toward the shepherd. As for the enmity between wolf and shepherd, it needs no explanation. And the cause of my own enmity with him is that yesterday this wolf, whose fortune of companionship I now enjoy, attacked our flock and carried off a lamb. I, as was my habit, ran after him to recover the lamb, but I did not catch up with him. When I came back, the shepherd raised his staff at me and, without cause, injured me. So I too severed the bond of friendship with him and joined with his old enemy.' Befriend the enemy in such a way that the sword of enmity may never scratch your skin. Do not carry enmity with a friend so far that, in spite of you, he becomes friends with your enemy.