Aesop's fables: Affected kindness to serve selfish purpose

Retold by Panchamee Hewavissenti

It's believed that the animals live beside River Nile are very alert of crocodiles in the river. Especially dogs and foxes are very vigilant when they drink water from the river. It's also believed that those four legged animals drink water while running. The reason is that, if they stop to drink water , they would easily become prey to crocodiles.

While a fox was drinking water hurriedly from the river, a "pretend to be sympathetic crocodile" inquired from the fox " My dear fox, why are you drinking water in a hurry. This huge river will not cease to flow. So, relax, calm and drink water to your heart's content.

Although, the wise fox, knowing the wicked and crook aim of the crocodile, was not beguiled by the cunning words. The fox walked aback and replied louder " How can I quench my thirst from this river calmly and relaxed while you are impatiently waiting for a chance to snatch me for your lunch". The crocodile became so ashamed and vanished under water in no time.

Moral of the story

Haven't you met people of aforementioned crocodile's nature who turn sympathetic eye to serve their greedy purpose? Such wickedness and cowardice are hateful. There're those who extend evil admonitions, but people who are smart and alert would not be caught in their traps. Perhaps the cautious people would ridicule and laugh off when they detect the evil purpose behind pretended kindness.