The Lion and the Mouse

A Lion was awakened by a Mouse running across his face. Rising angrily, he seized the Mouse and was about to kill him when the little creature pleaded for his life.

"If you would only spare my life, I would be sure to repay your kindness," the Mouse said.

The Lion laughed at the idea, but nevertheless let him go.

Shortly afterwards, the Lion was captured by hunters, who bound him to the ground with strong ropes. Recognising his roar, the Mouse came to his aid and chewed through the rope with his teeth, setting the Lion free.

"You ridiculed the idea that I could ever help you," the Mouse exclaimed,"and never expected me to repay your kindness. Now you know that even a Mouse can be of service to a Lion."