Aesop's Fables

A Panther, by some mishap, fell into a pit. The Shepherds discovered him, and some threw sticks at him and pelted him with stones, while others, moved with compassion toward one who was about to die even if no one hurt him, threw in some food to prolong his life. At night they returned home, not dreaming of any danger, but supposing that they would find him dead the next day. The Panther, however, when he had restored his weakened strength, freed himself from the pit with a sudden bound and hurried to his den with rapid steps. After a few days he came out and slaughtered the cattle, and, killing the Shepherds who had attacked him, he raged with angry fury. Then those who had spared his life, fearing for their safety, surrendered their flocks to him and begged only for their lives. To them the Panther made this reply: “I remember both those who sought my life with stones and those who gave me food. Set aside your fears, therefore. I return as an enemy only to those who injured me.”