THE DONKEY AND THE SALT.

e
ty NE time a merchant went to the seashore

~~ for a load of salt.

SOMOS There were many hills and streams to
cross on the journey.

As the path was narrow and rocky, the man made
his donkey carry the salt in large bags, upon his
back. It was a warm day, and the donkey did not
like his heavy load.

He hung down his head and went as slowly as
he could.

After a while they came to a stream which had
only a foot bridge over it.

The donkey went through the water, splash]
splash! splash! In the middle of the stream was a
large stone which he did not see.

He stumbled and fell, and the water ran over the
bags of salt.

Soon the donkey was glad that he had fallen, for
he found his load much lighter.

They came to another stream, but the donkey did
not stumble this time. He lay down in the middle
of the brook.

He was a wise donkey.