The Fox and the Mosquitoes

A Fox after crossing a river got its tail entangled in a bush, and could not move. A number of Mosquitoes seeing its plight settled upon it and enjoyed a good meal undisturbed by its tail. A hedgehog strolling by took pity upon the Fox and went up to him: ‘You are in a bad way, neighbour,' said the hedgehog; ‘shall I relieve you by driving off those Mosquitoes who are sucking your blood?'

‘Thank you, Master Hedgehog,' said the Fox, ‘but I would rather not.'

‘Why, how is that?' asked the hedgehog.

‘Well, you see,' was the answer, ‘these Mosquitoes have had their fill; if you drive these away, others will come with fresh appetite and bleed me to death.'