https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aesop-s-fables--6262852enBooksWise Owlhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c8d040108e4481855e3afcd05fdccf68.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/aesop-s-fables--6262852Mon, 23 Feb 2026 04:59:32 +0000Sophia AustinSophia Austinfeeds@spreaker.comA collection of Aesop's Fables.cleanepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-eagle-and-the-kite--70220359An Eagle sat high in the branches of a great Oak. She seemed very sad and drooping for an Eagle. A Kite saw her."Why do you look so woebegone?" asked the Kite."I want to get married," replied the Eagle, "and I can't find a mate who can provide for me as I should like.""Take me," said the Kite; "I am very strong, stronger even than you!""Do you really think you can provide for me?" asked the Eagle eagerly."Why, of course," replied the Kite. "That would be a very simple matter. I am so strong I can carry away an Ostrich in my talons as if it were a feather!"The Eagle accepted the Kite immediately. But after the wedding, when the Kite flew away to find something to eat for his bride, all he had when he returned, was a tiny Mouse."Is that the Ostrich you talked about?" said the Eagle in disgust."To win you I would have said and promised anything," replied the Kite.
Everything is fair in love.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70220359Mon, 23 Feb 2026 04:59:07 +0000Sophia AustinTHE EAGLE AND THE KITE An Eagle sat high in the branches of a great Oak. She seemed very sad and drooping for an Eagle. A Kite saw her."Why do you look so woebegone?" asked the Kite."I want to get married," replied the Eagle, "and I can't find a mate...An Eagle sat high in the branches of a great Oak. She seemed very sad and drooping for an Eagle. A Kite saw her."Why do you look so woebegone?" asked the Kite."I want to get married," replied the Eagle, "and I can't find a mate who can provide for me as I should like.""Take me," said the Kite; "I am very strong, stronger even than you!""Do you really think you can provide for me?" asked the Eagle eagerly."Why, of course," replied the Kite. "That would be a very simple matter. I am so strong I can carry away an Ostrich in my talons as if it were a feather!"The Eagle accepted the Kite immediately. But after the wedding, when the Kite flew away to find something to eat for his bride, all he had when he returned, was a tiny Mouse."Is that the Ostrich you talked about?" said the Eagle in disgust."To win you I would have said and promised anything," replied the Kite.
Everything is fair in love.]]>66aesops,eagle,fables,fair,kite,love,mintue,one,short,stories,storycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-flies-and-the-honey--67694854
A jar of honey was upset and the sticky sweetness flowed out on the table. The sweet smell of the honey soon brought a large number of Flies buzzing around. They did not wait for an invitation. No, indeed; they settled right down, feet and all, to gorge themselves. The Flies were quickly smeared from head to foot with honey. Their wings stuck together. They could not pull their feet out of the sticky mass. And so they died, giving their lives for the sake of a taste of sweetness.

Be not greedy for a little passing pleasure. It may destroy you.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67694854Sat, 18 Oct 2025 23:05:07 +0000Sophia AustinTHE FLIES AND THE HONEY A jar of honey was upset and the sticky sweetness flowed out on the table. The sweet smell of the honey soon brought a large number of Flies buzzing around. They did not wait for an invitation. No, indeed; they settled right...
A jar of honey was upset and the sticky sweetness flowed out on the table. The sweet smell of the honey soon brought a large number of Flies buzzing around. They did not wait for an invitation. No, indeed; they settled right down, feet and all, to gorge themselves. The Flies were quickly smeared from head to foot with honey. Their wings stuck together. They could not pull their feet out of the sticky mass. And so they died, giving their lives for the sake of a taste of sweetness.

Be not greedy for a little passing pleasure. It may destroy you.]]>41aesops,fable,flies,greedy,honey,sweetnesscleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-mother-and-the-wolf--67694845Early one morning a hungry Wolf was prowling around a cottage at the edge of a village, when he heard a child crying in the house. Then he heard the Mother's voice say:"Hush, child, hush! Stop your crying, or I will give you to the Wolf!"Surprised but delighted at the prospect of so delicious a meal, the Wolf settled down under an open window, expecting every moment to have the child handed out to him. But though the little one continued to fret, the Wolf waited all day in vain. Then, toward nightfall, he heard the Mother's voice again as she sat down near the window to sing and rock her baby to sleep."There, child, there! The Wolf shall not get you. No, no! Daddy is watching and Daddy will kill him if he should come near!"Just then the Father came within sight of the home, and the Wolf was barely able to save himself from the Dogs by a clever bit of running.

Do not believe everything you hear.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67694845Sat, 11 Oct 2025 23:00:07 +0000Sophia AustinTHE MOTHER AND THE WOLF Early one morning a hungry Wolf was prowling around a cottage at the edge of a village, when he heard a child crying in the house. Then he heard the Mother's voice say:"Hush, child, hush! Stop your crying, or I will give you to...Early one morning a hungry Wolf was prowling around a cottage at the edge of a village, when he heard a child crying in the house. Then he heard the Mother's voice say:"Hush, child, hush! Stop your crying, or I will give you to the Wolf!"Surprised but delighted at the prospect of so delicious a meal, the Wolf settled down under an open window, expecting every moment to have the child handed out to him. But though the little one continued to fret, the Wolf waited all day in vain. Then, toward nightfall, he heard the Mother's voice again as she sat down near the window to sing and rock her baby to sleep."There, child, there! The Wolf shall not get you. No, no! Daddy is watching and Daddy will kill him if he should come near!"Just then the Father came within sight of the home, and the Wolf was barely able to save himself from the Dogs by a clever bit of running.

Do not believe everything you hear.]]>68aesops,baby,daddy,fable,father,mother,old,story,wolfcleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-and-the-monkey--67621181At a great meeting of the Animals, who had gathered to elect a new ruler, the Monkey was asked to dance. This he did so well, with a thousand funny capers and grimaces, that the Animals were carried entirely off their feet with enthusiasm, and then and there, elected him their king.The Fox did not vote for the Monkey and was much disgusted with the Animals for electing so unworthy a ruler.One day he found a trap with a bit of meat in it. Hurrying to King Monkey, he told him he had found a rich treasure, which he had not touched because it belonged by right to his majesty the Monkey.The greedy Monkey followed the Fox to the trap. As soon as he saw the meat he grasped eagerly for it, only to find himself held fast in the trap. The Fox stood off and laughed."You pretend to be our king," he said, "and cannot even take care of yourself!"Shortly after that, another election among the Animals was held.

The true leader proves himself by his qualities.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67621181Sat, 04 Oct 2025 18:40:07 +0000Sophia AustinTHE FOX AND THE MONKEY At a great meeting of the Animals, who had gathered to elect a new ruler, the Monkey was asked to dance. This he did so well, with a thousand funny capers and grimaces, that the Animals were carried entirely off their feet with...At a great meeting of the Animals, who had gathered to elect a new ruler, the Monkey was asked to dance. This he did so well, with a thousand funny capers and grimaces, that the Animals were carried entirely off their feet with enthusiasm, and then and there, elected him their king.The Fox did not vote for the Monkey and was much disgusted with the Animals for electing so unworthy a ruler.One day he found a trap with a bit of meat in it. Hurrying to King Monkey, he told him he had found a rich treasure, which he had not touched because it belonged by right to his majesty the Monkey.The greedy Monkey followed the Fox to the trap. As soon as he saw the meat he grasped eagerly for it, only to find himself held fast in the trap. The Fox stood off and laughed."You pretend to be our king," he said, "and cannot even take care of yourself!"Shortly after that, another election among the Animals was held.

The true leader proves himself by his qualities.]]>74aesops,fables,fox,greedy,leader,minute,monkey,one,short,stories,story,truecleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-porcupine-and-the-snakes--67621131A Porcupine was looking for a good home. At last he found a little sheltered cave, where lived a family of Snakes. He asked them to let him share the cave with them, and the Snakes kindly consented.The Snakes soon wished they had not given him permission to stay. His sharp quills pricked them at every turn, and at last they politely asked him to leave."I am very well satisfied, thank you," said the Porcupine. "I intend to stay right here." And with that, he politely escorted the Snakes out of doors. And to save their skins, the Snakes had to look for another home.

Give a finger and lose a hand.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67621131Sat, 27 Sep 2025 18:35:07 +0000Sophia AustinTHE PORCUPINE AND THE SNAKES A Porcupine was looking for a good home. At last he found a little sheltered cave, where lived a family of Snakes. He asked them to let him share the cave with them, and the Snakes kindly consented.The Snakes soon wished...A Porcupine was looking for a good home. At last he found a little sheltered cave, where lived a family of Snakes. He asked them to let him share the cave with them, and the Snakes kindly consented.The Snakes soon wished they had not given him permission to stay. His sharp quills pricked them at every turn, and at last they politely asked him to leave."I am very well satisfied, thank you," said the Porcupine. "I intend to stay right here." And with that, he politely escorted the Snakes out of doors. And to save their skins, the Snakes had to look for another home.

Give a finger and lose a hand.]]>44aesop,aesops,fable,fables,finger,give,giving,hand,lose,porcupine,snakes,storycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/two-travelers-and-a-bear--67621095
Two Men were traveling in company through a forest, when, all at once, a huge Bear crashed out of the brush near them.One of the Men, thinking of his own safety, climbed a tree.The other, unable to fight the savage beast alone, threw himself on the ground and lay still, as if he were dead. He had heard that a Bear will not touch a dead body.It must have been true, for the Bear snuffed at the Man's head awhile, and then, seeming to be satisfied that he was dead, walked away.The Man in the tree climbed down."It looked just as if that Bear whispered in your ear," he said. "What did he tell you?""He said," answered the other, "that it was not at all wise to keep company with a fellow who would desert his friend in a moment of danger."

Misfortune is the test of true friendship.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67621095Sat, 20 Sep 2025 18:35:07 +0000Sophia AustinTwo Travelers and A Bear Two Men were traveling in company through a forest, when, all at once, a huge Bear crashed out of the brush near them.One of the Men, thinking of his own safety, climbed a tree.The other, unable to fight the savage beast...
Two Men were traveling in company through a forest, when, all at once, a huge Bear crashed out of the brush near them.One of the Men, thinking of his own safety, climbed a tree.The other, unable to fight the savage beast alone, threw himself on the ground and lay still, as if he were dead. He had heard that a Bear will not touch a dead body.It must have been true, for the Bear snuffed at the Man's head awhile, and then, seeming to be satisfied that he was dead, walked away.The Man in the tree climbed down."It looked just as if that Bear whispered in your ear," he said. "What did he tell you?""He said," answered the other, "that it was not at all wise to keep company with a fellow who would desert his friend in a moment of danger."

Misfortune is the test of true friendship.]]>58aesop,aesops,bear,fable,friendship,minute,short,story,travelerscleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-and-the-pheasants--67600047One moonlight evening as Master Fox was taking his usual stroll in the woods, he saw a number of Pheasants perched quite out of his reach on a limb of a tall old tree. The sly Fox soon found a bright patch of moonlight, where the Pheasants could see him clearly; there he raised himself up on his hind legs, and began a wild dance. First he whirled 'round and 'round like a top, then he hopped up and down, cutting all sorts of strange capers. The Pheasants stared giddily. They hardly dared blink for fear of losing him out of their sight a single instant.Now the Fox made as if to climb a tree, now he fell over and lay still, playing dead, and the next instant he was hopping on all fours, his back in the air, and his bushy tail shaking so that it seemed to throw out silver sparks in the moonlight.By this time the poor birds' heads were in a whirl. And when the Fox began his performance all over again, so dazed did they become, that they lost their hold on the limb, and fell down one by one to the Fox.

Too much attention to danger may cause us to fall victims to it.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67600047Sat, 13 Sep 2025 19:45:07 +0000Sophia AustinTHE FOX AND THE PHEASANTS One moonlight evening as Master Fox was taking his usual stroll in the woods, he saw a number of Pheasants perched quite out of his reach on a limb of a tall old tree. The sly Fox soon found a bright patch of moonlight, where...One moonlight evening as Master Fox was taking his usual stroll in the woods, he saw a number of Pheasants perched quite out of his reach on a limb of a tall old tree. The sly Fox soon found a bright patch of moonlight, where the Pheasants could see him clearly; there he raised himself up on his hind legs, and began a wild dance. First he whirled 'round and 'round like a top, then he hopped up and down, cutting all sorts of strange capers. The Pheasants stared giddily. They hardly dared blink for fear of losing him out of their sight a single instant.Now the Fox made as if to climb a tree, now he fell over and lay still, playing dead, and the next instant he was hopping on all fours, his back in the air, and his bushy tail shaking so that it seemed to throw out silver sparks in the moonlight.By this time the poor birds' heads were in a whirl. And when the Fox began his performance all over again, so dazed did they become, that they lost their hold on the limb, and fell down one by one to the Fox.

Too much attention to danger may cause us to fall victims to it.]]>86aesops,dance,fable,fox,minute,one,pheasants,short,story,tree,victimscleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-old-lion--67599994Lion had grown very old. His teeth were worn away. His limbs could no longer bear him, and the King of Beasts was very pitiful indeed as he lay gasping on the ground, about to die.Where now his strength and his former graceful beauty?Now a Boar spied him, and rushing at him, gored him with his yellow tusk. A Bull trampled him with his heavy hoofs. Even a contemptible Ass let fly his heels and brayed his insults in the face of the Lion.
It is cowardly to attack the defenseless, though he be an enemy.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67599994Wed, 10 Sep 2025 19:40:08 +0000Sophia AustinTHE OLD LIONA Lion had grown very old. His teeth were worn away. His limbs could no longer bear him, and the King of Beasts was very pitiful indeed as he lay gasping on the ground, about to die.Where now his strength and his former graceful beauty?Now...Lion had grown very old. His teeth were worn away. His limbs could no longer bear him, and the King of Beasts was very pitiful indeed as he lay gasping on the ground, about to die.Where now his strength and his former graceful beauty?Now a Boar spied him, and rushing at him, gored him with his yellow tusk. A Bull trampled him with his heavy hoofs. Even a contemptible Ass let fly his heels and brayed his insults in the face of the Lion.
It is cowardly to attack the defenseless, though he be an enemy.]]>44aesops,attack,cowardly,enemy,fable,lion,minute,old,short,storycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-boy-and-the-nettle--67380660Whatever you do, do with all your might.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67380660Wed, 03 Sep 2025 20:00:08 +0000Sophia AustinTHE BOY AND THE NETTLEA Boy, stung by a Nettle, ran home crying, to get his mother to blow on the hurt and kiss it."Son," said the Boy's mother, when she had comforted him, "the next time you come near a Nettle, grasp it firmly, and it will be as soft...Whatever you do, do with all your might.]]>22aesops,boy,minute,nettle,short,storycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cat-and-the-fox--67370675Once a Cat and a Fox were traveling together. As they went along, picking up provisions on the way—a stray mouse here, a fat chicken there—they began an argument to while away the time between bites. And, as usually happens when comrades argue, the talk began to get personal."You think you are extremely clever, don't you?" said the Fox. "Do you pretend to know more than I? Why, I know a whole sackful of tricks!""Well," retorted the Cat, "I admit I know one trick only, but that one, let me tell you, is worth a thousand of yours!"Just then, close by, they heard a hunter's horn and the yelping of a pack of hounds. In an instant the Cat was up a tree, hiding among the leaves."This is my trick," he called to the Fox. "Now let me see what yours are worth."But the Fox had so many plans for escape he could not decide which one to try first. He dodged here and there with the hounds at his heels. He doubled on his tracks, he ran at top speed, he entered a dozen burrows,—but all in vain. The hounds caught him, and soon put an end to the boaster and all his tricks.

Common sense is always worth more than cunning.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67370675Wed, 27 Aug 2025 20:15:08 +0000Sophia AustinTHE CAT AND THE FOX Once a Cat and a Fox were traveling together. As they went along, picking up provisions on the way—a stray mouse here, a fat chicken there—they began an argument to while away the time between bites. And, as usually happens when...Once a Cat and a Fox were traveling together. As they went along, picking up provisions on the way—a stray mouse here, a fat chicken there—they began an argument to while away the time between bites. And, as usually happens when comrades argue, the talk began to get personal."You think you are extremely clever, don't you?" said the Fox. "Do you pretend to know more than I? Why, I know a whole sackful of tricks!""Well," retorted the Cat, "I admit I know one trick only, but that one, let me tell you, is worth a thousand of yours!"Just then, close by, they heard a hunter's horn and the yelping of a pack of hounds. In an instant the Cat was up a tree, hiding among the leaves."This is my trick," he called to the Fox. "Now let me see what yours are worth."But the Fox had so many plans for escape he could not decide which one to try first. He dodged here and there with the hounds at his heels. He doubled on his tracks, he ran at top speed, he entered a dozen burrows,—but all in vain. The hounds caught him, and soon put an end to the boaster and all his tricks.

Common sense is always worth more than cunning.]]>85aesop's,cat,children,common,fable,fox,minute,one,sense,short,storiescleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-rose-and-the-butterfly--67291389Do not expect constancy in others if you have none yourself.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67291389Wed, 20 Aug 2025 22:30:07 +0000Sophia AustinA Butterfly once fell in love with a beautiful Rose. The Rose was not indifferent, for the Butterfly's wings were powdered in a charming pattern of gold and silver. And so, when he fluttered near and told how he loved her, she blushed rosily and said...Do not expect constancy in others if you have none yourself.]]>77aesops,butterfly,constancy,fable,minute,one,rose,short,storiescleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-mischievous-dog--67274495
Notoriety is not fame.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67274495Wed, 13 Aug 2025 17:45:08 +0000Sophia AustinThere was once a Dog who was so ill-natured and mischievous that his Master had to fasten a heavy wooden clog about his neck to keep him from annoying visitors and neighbors. But the Dog seemed to be very proud of the clog and dragged it about noisily...
Notoriety is not fame.]]>43aesops,children's,dog,fables,kids,minute,mischievous,one,storycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-without-a-tail--67274400A Fox that had been caught in a trap, succeeded at last, after much painful tugging, in getting away. But he had to leave his beautiful bushy tail behind him.For a long time he kept away from the other Foxes, for he knew well enough that they would all make fun of him and crack jokes and laugh behind his back. But it was hard for him to live alone, and at last he thought of a plan that would perhaps help him out of his trouble.He called a meeting of all the Foxes, saying that he had something of great importance to tell the tribe.When they were all gathered together, the Fox Without a Tail got up and made a long speech about those Foxes who had come to harm because of their tails.This one had been caught by hounds when his tail had become entangled in the hedge. That one had not been able to run fast enough because of the weight of his brush. Besides, it was well known, he said, that men hunt Foxes simply for their tails, which they cut off as prizes of the hunt. With such proof of the danger and uselessness of having a tail, said Master Fox, he would advise every Fox to cut it off, if he valued life and safety.When he had finished talking, an old Fox arose, and said, smiling:"Master Fox, kindly turn around for a moment, and you shall have your answer."When the poor Fox Without a Tail turned around, there arose such a storm of jeers and hooting, that he saw how useless it was to try any longer to persuade the Foxes to part with their tails.

Do not listen to the advice of him who seeks to lower you to his own level.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67274400Wed, 06 Aug 2025 16:33:43 +0000Sophia AustinTHE FOX WITHOUT A TAIL A Fox that had been caught in a trap, succeeded at last, after much painful tugging, in getting away. But he had to leave his beautiful bushy tail behind him.For a long time he kept away from the other Foxes, for he knew well...A Fox that had been caught in a trap, succeeded at last, after much painful tugging, in getting away. But he had to leave his beautiful bushy tail behind him.For a long time he kept away from the other Foxes, for he knew well enough that they would all make fun of him and crack jokes and laugh behind his back. But it was hard for him to live alone, and at last he thought of a plan that would perhaps help him out of his trouble.He called a meeting of all the Foxes, saying that he had something of great importance to tell the tribe.When they were all gathered together, the Fox Without a Tail got up and made a long speech about those Foxes who had come to harm because of their tails.This one had been caught by hounds when his tail had become entangled in the hedge. That one had not been able to run fast enough because of the weight of his brush. Besides, it was well known, he said, that men hunt Foxes simply for their tails, which they cut off as prizes of the hunt. With such proof of the danger and uselessness of having a tail, said Master Fox, he would advise every Fox to cut it off, if he valued life and safety.When he had finished talking, an old Fox arose, and said, smiling:"Master Fox, kindly turn around for a moment, and you shall have your answer."When the poor Fox Without a Tail turned around, there arose such a storm of jeers and hooting, that he saw how useless it was to try any longer to persuade the Foxes to part with their tails.

Do not listen to the advice of him who seeks to lower you to his own level.]]>115aesops,fables,fox,minute,one,short,story,tail,withoutcleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-quack-toad--64702139
An old Toad once informed all his neighbors that he was a learned doctor. In fact he could cure anything. The Fox heard the news and hurried to see the Toad. He looked the Toad over very carefully."Mr. Toad," he said, "I've been told that you cure anything! But just take a look at yourself, and then try some of your own medicine. If you can cure yourself of that blotchy skin and that rheumatic gait, someone might believe you. Otherwise, I should advise you to try some other profession."
Those who would mend others, should first mend themselves.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64702139Tue, 04 Mar 2025 22:21:08 +0000Sophia AustinTHE QUACK TOAD An old Toad once informed all his neighbors that he was a learned doctor. In fact he could cure anything. The Fox heard the news and hurried to see the Toad. He looked the Toad over very carefully."Mr. Toad," he said, "I've been told...
An old Toad once informed all his neighbors that he was a learned doctor. In fact he could cure anything. The Fox heard the news and hurried to see the Toad. He looked the Toad over very carefully."Mr. Toad," he said, "I've been told that you cure anything! But just take a look at yourself, and then try some of your own medicine. If you can cure yourself of that blotchy skin and that rheumatic gait, someone might believe you. Otherwise, I should advise you to try some other profession."
Those who would mend others, should first mend themselves.]]>46aesops,before,childrens,cure,fable,fairy,first,minute,one,others,self,story,toadcleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-bat-and-the-weasels--62388970A Bat blundered into the nest of a Weasel, who ran up to catch and eat him. The Bat begged for his life, but the Weasel would not listen."You are a Mouse," he said, "and I am a sworn enemy of Mice. Every Mouse I catch, I am going to eat!""But I am not a Mouse!" cried the Bat. "Look at my wings. Can Mice fly? Why, I am only a Bird! Please let me go!"The Weasel had to admit that the Bat was not a Mouse, so he let him go. But a few days later, the foolish Bat went blindly into the nest of another Weasel. This Weasel happened to be a bitter enemy of Birds, and he soon had the Bat under his claws, ready to eat him."You are a Bird," he said, "and I am going to eat you!""What," cried the Bat, "I, a Bird! Why, all Birds have feathers! I am nothing but a Mouse. 'Down with all Cats,' is my motto!"And so the Bat escaped with his life a second time.
Set your sails with the wind.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62388970Wed, 16 Oct 2024 21:04:47 +0000Sophia AustinTHE BAT AND THE WEASELS A Bat blundered into the nest of a Weasel, who ran up to catch and eat him. The Bat begged for his life, but the Weasel would not listen."You are a Mouse," he said, "and I am a sworn enemy of Mice. Every Mouse I catch, I am...A Bat blundered into the nest of a Weasel, who ran up to catch and eat him. The Bat begged for his life, but the Weasel would not listen."You are a Mouse," he said, "and I am a sworn enemy of Mice. Every Mouse I catch, I am going to eat!""But I am not a Mouse!" cried the Bat. "Look at my wings. Can Mice fly? Why, I am only a Bird! Please let me go!"The Weasel had to admit that the Bat was not a Mouse, so he let him go. But a few days later, the foolish Bat went blindly into the nest of another Weasel. This Weasel happened to be a bitter enemy of Birds, and he soon had the Bat under his claws, ready to eat him."You are a Bird," he said, "and I am going to eat you!""What," cried the Bat, "I, a Bird! Why, all Birds have feathers! I am nothing but a Mouse. 'Down with all Cats,' is my motto!"And so the Bat escaped with his life a second time.
Set your sails with the wind.]]>68bat,sail,set,weasels,wind,withcleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-and-the-hedgehog--62376579A Fox, swimming across a river, was barely able to reach the bank, where he lay bruised and exhausted from his struggle with the swift current. Soon a swarm of blood-sucking flies settled on him; but he lay quietly, still too weak to run away from them.A Hedgehog happened by. "Let me drive the flies away," he said kindly."No, no!" exclaimed the Fox, "do not disturb them! They have taken all they can hold. If you drive them away, another greedy swarm will come and take the little blood I have left."
Better to bear a lesser evil than to risk a greater in removing it.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62376579Tue, 15 Oct 2024 18:06:17 +0000Sophia AustinTHE FOX AND THE HEDGEHOG A Fox, swimming across a river, was barely able to reach the bank, where he lay bruised and exhausted from his struggle with the swift current. Soon a swarm of blood-sucking flies settled on him; but he lay quietly, still too...A Fox, swimming across a river, was barely able to reach the bank, where he lay bruised and exhausted from his struggle with the swift current. Soon a swarm of blood-sucking flies settled on him; but he lay quietly, still too weak to run away from them.A Hedgehog happened by. "Let me drive the flies away," he said kindly."No, no!" exclaimed the Fox, "do not disturb them! They have taken all they can hold. If you drive them away, another greedy swarm will come and take the little blood I have left."
Better to bear a lesser evil than to risk a greater in removing it.]]>51aesops,better,evil,fable,fox,little,meaning,minute,one,storycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wolf-and-the-house-dog--61955753There was once a Wolf who got very little to eat because the Dogs of the village were so wide awake and watchful. He was really nothing but skin and bones, and it made him very downhearted to think of it.One night this Wolf happened to fall in with a fine fat House Dog who had wandered a little too far from home. The Wolf would gladly have eaten him then and there, but the House Dog looked strong enough to leave his marks should he try it. So the Wolf spoke very humbly to the Dog, complimenting him on his fine appearance."You can be as well-fed as I am if you want to," replied the Dog. "Leave the woods; there you live miserably. Why, you have to fight hard for every bite you get. Follow my example and you will get along beautifully.""What must I do?" asked the Wolf."Hardly anything," answered the House Dog. "Chase people who carry canes, bark at beggars, and fawn on the people of the house. In return you will get tidbits of every kind, chicken bones, choice bits of meat, sugar, cake, and much more beside, not to speak of kind words and caresses."The Wolf had such a beautiful vision of his coming happiness that he almost wept. But just then he noticed that the hair on the Dog's neck was worn and the skin was chafed."What is that on your neck?""Nothing at all," replied the Dog."What! nothing!""Oh, just a trifle!""But please tell me.""Perhaps you see the mark of the collar to which my chain is fastened.""What! A chain!" cried the Wolf. "Don't you go wherever you please?""Not always! But what's the difference?" replied the Dog."All the difference in the world! I don't care a rap for your feasts and I wouldn't take all the tender young lambs in the world at that price." And away ran the Wolf to the woods.
There is nothing worth so much as liberty.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61955753Tue, 17 Sep 2024 15:17:35 +0000Sophia AustinTHE WOLF AND THE HOUSE DOG There was once a Wolf who got very little to eat because the Dogs of the village were so wide awake and watchful. He was really nothing but skin and bones, and it made him very downhearted to think of it.One night this Wolf...There was once a Wolf who got very little to eat because the Dogs of the village were so wide awake and watchful. He was really nothing but skin and bones, and it made him very downhearted to think of it.One night this Wolf happened to fall in with a fine fat House Dog who had wandered a little too far from home. The Wolf would gladly have eaten him then and there, but the House Dog looked strong enough to leave his marks should he try it. So the Wolf spoke very humbly to the Dog, complimenting him on his fine appearance."You can be as well-fed as I am if you want to," replied the Dog. "Leave the woods; there you live miserably. Why, you have to fight hard for every bite you get. Follow my example and you will get along beautifully.""What must I do?" asked the Wolf."Hardly anything," answered the House Dog. "Chase people who carry canes, bark at beggars, and fawn on the people of the house. In return you will get tidbits of every kind, chicken bones, choice bits of meat, sugar, cake, and much more beside, not to speak of kind words and caresses."The Wolf had such a beautiful vision of his coming happiness that he almost wept. But just then he noticed that the hair on the Dog's neck was worn and the skin was chafed."What is that on your neck?""Nothing at all," replied the Dog."What! nothing!""Oh, just a trifle!""But please tell me.""Perhaps you see the mark of the collar to which my chain is fastened.""What! A chain!" cried the Wolf. "Don't you go wherever you please?""Not always! But what's the difference?" replied the Dog."All the difference in the world! I don't care a rap for your feasts and I wouldn't take all the tender young lambs in the world at that price." And away ran the Wolf to the woods.
There is nothing worth so much as liberty.]]>1351,60,aesop's,chain,collar,dog,dogs,fables,feast,house,liberty,minute,one,sec,seconds,short,story,wolf,woodscleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-miser--61835972A Miser had buried his gold in a secret place in his garden. Every day he went to the spot, dug up the treasure and counted it piece by piece to make sure it was all there. He made so many trips that a Thief, who had been observing him, guessed what it was the Miser had hidden, and one night quietly dug up the treasure and made off with it.When the Miser discovered his loss, he was overcome with grief and despair. He groaned and cried and tore his hair.A passerby heard his cries and asked what had happened."My gold! O my gold!" cried the Miser, wildly, "someone has robbed me!""Your gold! There in that hole? Why did you put it there? Why did you not keep it in the house where you could easily get it when you had to buy things?""Buy!" screamed the Miser angrily. "Why, I never touched the gold. I couldn't think of spending any of it."The stranger picked up a large stone and threw it into the hole."If that is the case," he said, "cover up that stone. It is worth just as much to you as the treasure you lost!"
A possession is worth no more than the use we make of it.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61835972Mon, 16 Sep 2024 13:55:06 +0000Sophia AustinTHE MISER A Miser had buried his gold in a secret place in his garden. Every day he went to the spot, dug up the treasure and counted it piece by piece to make sure it was all there. He made so many trips that a Thief, who had been observing him,...A Miser had buried his gold in a secret place in his garden. Every day he went to the spot, dug up the treasure and counted it piece by piece to make sure it was all there. He made so many trips that a Thief, who had been observing him, guessed what it was the Miser had hidden, and one night quietly dug up the treasure and made off with it.When the Miser discovered his loss, he was overcome with grief and despair. He groaned and cried and tore his hair.A passerby heard his cries and asked what had happened."My gold! O my gold!" cried the Miser, wildly, "someone has robbed me!""Your gold! There in that hole? Why did you put it there? Why did you not keep it in the house where you could easily get it when you had to buy things?""Buy!" screamed the Miser angrily. "Why, I never touched the gold. I couldn't think of spending any of it."The stranger picked up a large stone and threw it into the hole."If that is the case," he said, "cover up that stone. It is worth just as much to you as the treasure you lost!"
A possession is worth no more than the use we make of it.]]>791,aesop,fable,fairy,gold,make,min,minute,miser,money,one,possession,quick,story,tale,tales,use,worthcleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-milkmaid-and-her-pail--61027313https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61027313Wed, 14 Aug 2024 16:03:27 +0000Sophia Austin69cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ass-and-the-lap-dog--61027239https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61027239Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:52:49 +0000Sophia Austin110cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-man-and-the-lion--61016270https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61016270Tue, 13 Aug 2024 17:07:16 +0000Sophia Austin521,aesop's,fables,minute,moral,quick,story,talescleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-old-lion-and-the-fox--61016233https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61016233Tue, 13 Aug 2024 17:01:20 +0000Sophia Austin69cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-eagle-and-the-beetle--61016177https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61016177Tue, 13 Aug 2024 16:55:30 +0000Sophia Austin81cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mercury-and-the-woodman--60994579https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994579Tue, 13 Aug 2024 03:40:03 +0000Sophia Austin1732,3,4,aesop's,axe,classic,english,fable,gold,grade,mercury,short,story,woodsmancleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-bull-and-the-goat--61008354https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61008354Tue, 13 Aug 2024 01:27:07 +0000Sophia Austin33cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-bear-and-the-bees--60994581https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994581Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:28:12 +0000Sophia Austin61cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ants-and-the-grasshopper--60994582https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994582Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:28:00 +0000Sophia Austin58cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ass-and-the-driver--60994583An Ass was being driven along a road leading down the mountain side, when he suddenly took it into his silly head to choose his own path. He could see his stall at the foot of the mountain, and to him the quickest way down seemed to be over the edge of the nearest cliff. Just as he was about to leap over, his master caught him by the tail and tried to pull him back, but the stubborn Ass would not yield and pulled with all his might."Very well," said his master, "go your way, you willful beast, and see where it leads you."With that he let go, and the foolish Ass tumbled head over heels down the mountain side.
They who will not listen to reason but stubbornly go their own way against the friendly advice of those who are wiser than they, are on the road to misfortune.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994583Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:27:48 +0000Sophia AustinTHE ASS AND HIS DRIVER An Ass was being driven along a road leading down the mountain side, when he suddenly took it into his silly head to choose his own path. He could see his stall at the foot of the mountain, and to him the quickest way down...An Ass was being driven along a road leading down the mountain side, when he suddenly took it into his silly head to choose his own path. He could see his stall at the foot of the mountain, and to him the quickest way down seemed to be over the edge of the nearest cliff. Just as he was about to leap over, his master caught him by the tail and tried to pull him back, but the stubborn Ass would not yield and pulled with all his might."Very well," said his master, "go your way, you willful beast, and see where it leads you."With that he let go, and the foolish Ass tumbled head over heels down the mountain side.
They who will not listen to reason but stubbornly go their own way against the friendly advice of those who are wiser than they, are on the road to misfortune.]]>54advice,aesops,ass,driver,fables,friendly,misfortune,roadclean115fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ass-and-the-load-of-salt--60994584https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994584Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:27:36 +0000Sophia Austin85cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-eagle-and-the-jackdaw--60994585An Eagle, swooping down on powerful wings, seized a lamb in her talons and made off with it to her nest. A Jackdaw saw the deed, and his silly head was filled with the idea that he was big and strong enough to do as the Eagle had done. So with much rustling of feathers and a fierce air, he came down swiftly on the back of a large Ram. But when he tried to rise again he found that he could not get away, for his claws were tangled in the wool. And so far was he from carrying away the Ram, that the Ram hardly noticed he was there.The Shepherd saw the fluttering Jackdaw and at once guessed what had happened. Running up, he caught the bird and clipped its wings. That evening he gave the Jackdaw to his children."What a funny bird this is!" they said laughing, "what do you call it, father?""That is a Jackdaw, my children. But if you should ask him, he would say he is an Eagle."
Do not let your vanity make you overestimate your powers.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994585Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:27:11 +0000Sophia AustinTHE EAGLE AND THE JACKDAW An Eagle, swooping down on powerful wings, seized a lamb in her talons and made off with it to her nest. A Jackdaw saw the deed, and his silly head was filled with the idea that he was big and strong enough to do as the Eagle...An Eagle, swooping down on powerful wings, seized a lamb in her talons and made off with it to her nest. A Jackdaw saw the deed, and his silly head was filled with the idea that he was big and strong enough to do as the Eagle had done. So with much rustling of feathers and a fierce air, he came down swiftly on the back of a large Ram. But when he tried to rise again he found that he could not get away, for his claws were tangled in the wool. And so far was he from carrying away the Ram, that the Ram hardly noticed he was there.The Shepherd saw the fluttering Jackdaw and at once guessed what had happened. Running up, he caught the bird and clipped its wings. That evening he gave the Jackdaw to his children."What a funny bird this is!" they said laughing, "what do you call it, father?""That is a Jackdaw, my children. But if you should ask him, he would say he is an Eagle."
Do not let your vanity make you overestimate your powers.]]>74aesops,eagle,fable,jackdaw,minute,one,power,quick,story,vanityclean17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cat-s-elopemet--60994586https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994586Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:26:56 +0000Sophia Austin439cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-crab-and-his-mother--60994587"Why in the world do you walk sideways like that?" said a Mother Crab to her son. "You should always walk straight forward with your toes turned out.""Show me how to walk, mother dear," answered the little Crab obediently, "I want to learn."So the old Crab tried and tried to walk straight forward. But she could walk sideways only, like her son. And when she wanted to turn her toes out she tripped and fell on her nose.
Do not tell others how to act unless you can set a good example.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994587Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:26:44 +0000Sophia AustinTHE YOUNG CRAB AND HIS MOTHER "Why in the world do you walk sideways like that?" said a Mother Crab to her son. "You should always walk straight forward with your toes turned out.""Show me how to walk, mother dear," answered the little Crab..."Why in the world do you walk sideways like that?" said a Mother Crab to her son. "You should always walk straight forward with your toes turned out.""Show me how to walk, mother dear," answered the little Crab obediently, "I want to learn."So the old Crab tried and tried to walk straight forward. But she could walk sideways only, like her son. And when she wanted to turn her toes out she tripped and fell on her nose.
Do not tell others how to act unless you can set a good example.]]>42aesop's,crab,example,fables,good,moral,motherclean13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-farmer-and-the-stork--60994588https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994588Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:26:31 +0000Sophia Austin44cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dog-the-rooster-and-the-fox--60994589A Dog and a Cock, who were the best of friends, wished very much to see something of the world. So they decided to leave the farmyard and to set out into the world along the road that led to the woods. The two comrades traveled along in the very best of spirits and without meeting any adventure to speak of.At nightfall the Cock, looking for a place to roost, as was his custom, spied nearby a hollow tree that he thought would do very nicely for a night's lodging. The Dog could creep inside and the Cock would fly up on one of the branches. So said, so done, and both slept very comfortably.With the first glimmer of dawn the Cock awoke. For the moment he forgot just where he was. He thought he was still in the farmyard where it had been his duty to arouse the household at daybreak. So standing on tip-toes he flapped his wings and crowed lustily. But instead of awakening the farmer, he awakened a Fox not far off in the wood. The Fox immediately had rosy visions of a very delicious breakfast. Hurrying to the tree where the Cock was roosting, he said very politely:"A hearty welcome to our woods, honored sir. I cannot tell you how glad I am to see you here. I am quite sure we shall become the closest of friends.""I feel highly flattered, kind sir," replied the Cock slyly. "If you will please go around to the door of my house at the foot of the tree, my porter will let you in."The hungry but unsuspecting Fox, went around the tree as he was told, and in a twinkling the Dog had seized him.
Those who try to deceive may expect to be paid in their own coin.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994589Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:26:20 +0000Sophia AustinTHE DOG, THE COCK, AND THE FOX A Dog and a Cock, who were the best of friends, wished very much to see something of the world. So they decided to leave the farmyard and to set out into the world along the road that led to the woods. The two comrades...A Dog and a Cock, who were the best of friends, wished very much to see something of the world. So they decided to leave the farmyard and to set out into the world along the road that led to the woods. The two comrades traveled along in the very best of spirits and without meeting any adventure to speak of.At nightfall the Cock, looking for a place to roost, as was his custom, spied nearby a hollow tree that he thought would do very nicely for a night's lodging. The Dog could creep inside and the Cock would fly up on one of the branches. So said, so done, and both slept very comfortably.With the first glimmer of dawn the Cock awoke. For the moment he forgot just where he was. He thought he was still in the farmyard where it had been his duty to arouse the household at daybreak. So standing on tip-toes he flapped his wings and crowed lustily. But instead of awakening the farmer, he awakened a Fox not far off in the wood. The Fox immediately had rosy visions of a very delicious breakfast. Hurrying to the tree where the Cock was roosting, he said very politely:"A hearty welcome to our woods, honored sir. I cannot tell you how glad I am to see you here. I am quite sure we shall become the closest of friends.""I feel highly flattered, kind sir," replied the Cock slyly. "If you will please go around to the door of my house at the foot of the tree, my porter will let you in."The hungry but unsuspecting Fox, went around the tree as he was told, and in a twinkling the Dog had seized him.
Those who try to deceive may expect to be paid in their own coin.]]>126aesop,deceive,dog,fable,fox,roosterclean15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-crow-and-the-pitcher--60994590https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994590Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:26:08 +0000Sophia Austin41cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fighting-bulls-and-the-frog--60994591https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994591Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:25:56 +0000Sophia Austin47cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dogs-and-the-hides--60994592https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994592Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:25:45 +0000Sophia Austin47cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cat-the-rooster-and-the-young-mouse--60994593https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994593Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:25:33 +0000Sophia Austin139cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-farmer-and-his-sons--60994594https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994594Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:25:17 +0000Sophia Austin86cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-house-in-the-wood--60994595https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994595Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:25:01 +0000Sophia Austin594cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-boys-and-the-frogs--60994596https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994596Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:24:49 +0000Sophia Austin47cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dog-in-the-manger--60994597https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994597Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:24:39 +0000Sophia Austin51cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-and-the-lion--60994598https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994598Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:24:27 +0000Sophia Austin45cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-lion-and-the-ass--60994599https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994599Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:24:15 +0000Sophia Austin63cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-goblin-and-the-grocer--60994600https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994600Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:24:05 +0000Sophia Austin470cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-and-the-goat--60994601https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994601Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:23:53 +0000Sophia Austin65cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-lion-and-the-mouse--60994602A Lion lay asleep in the forest, his great head resting on his paws. A timid little Mouse came upon him unexpectedly, and in her fright and haste to get away, ran across the Lion's nose. Roused from his nap, the Lion laid his huge paw angrily on the tiny creature to kill her."Spare me!" begged the poor Mouse. "Please let me go and some day I will surely repay you."The Lion was much amused to think that a Mouse could ever help him. But he was generous and finally let the Mouse go.Some days later, while stalking his prey in the forest, the Lion was caught in the toils of a hunter's net. Unable to free himself, he filled the forest with his angry roaring. The Mouse knew the voice and quickly found the Lion struggling in the net. Running to one of the great ropes that bound him, she gnawed it until it parted, and soon the Lion was free."You laughed when I said I would repay you," said the Mouse. "Now you see that even a Mouse can help a Lion."
A kindness is never wasted.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994602Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:23:41 +0000Sophia AustinTHE LION AND THE MOUSE A Lion lay asleep in the forest, his great head resting on his paws. A timid little Mouse came upon him unexpectedly, and in her fright and haste to get away, ran across the Lion's nose. Roused from his nap, the Lion laid his...A Lion lay asleep in the forest, his great head resting on his paws. A timid little Mouse came upon him unexpectedly, and in her fright and haste to get away, ran across the Lion's nose. Roused from his nap, the Lion laid his huge paw angrily on the tiny creature to kill her."Spare me!" begged the poor Mouse. "Please let me go and some day I will surely repay you."The Lion was much amused to think that a Mouse could ever help him. But he was generous and finally let the Mouse go.Some days later, while stalking his prey in the forest, the Lion was caught in the toils of a hunter's net. Unable to free himself, he filled the forest with his angry roaring. The Mouse knew the voice and quickly found the Lion struggling in the net. Running to one of the great ropes that bound him, she gnawed it until it parted, and soon the Lion was free."You laughed when I said I would repay you," said the Mouse. "Now you see that even a Mouse can help a Lion."
A kindness is never wasted.]]>76aesops,fable,kindness,lion,mouse,never,wastedclean117fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-heron--60994603https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994603Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:23:29 +0000Sophia Austin62cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-peacock-and-the-crane--60994604https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994604Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:23:17 +0000Sophia Austin46cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-and-the-grapes--60994605A Fox one day spied a beautiful bunch of ripe grapes hanging from a vine trained along the branches of a tree. The grapes seemed ready to burst with juice, and the Fox's mouth watered as he gazed longingly at them.The bunch hung from a high branch, and the Fox had to jump for it. The first time he jumped he missed it by a long way. So he walked off a short distance and took a running leap at it, only to fall short once more. Again and again he tried, but in vain.Now he sat down and looked at the grapes in disgust."What a fool I am," he said. "Here I am wearing myself out to get a bunch of sour grapes that are not worth gaping for."And off he walked very, very scornfully.
There are many who pretend to despise and belittle that which is beyond their reach.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994605Mon, 12 Aug 2024 15:23:05 +0000Sophia AustinTHE FOX AND THE GRAPES A Fox one day spied a beautiful bunch of ripe grapes hanging from a vine trained along the branches of a tree. The grapes seemed ready to burst with juice, and the Fox's mouth watered as he gazed longingly at them.The bunch hung...A Fox one day spied a beautiful bunch of ripe grapes hanging from a vine trained along the branches of a tree. The grapes seemed ready to burst with juice, and the Fox's mouth watered as he gazed longingly at them.The bunch hung from a high branch, and the Fox had to jump for it. The first time he jumped he missed it by a long way. So he walked off a short distance and took a running leap at it, only to fall short once more. Again and again he tried, but in vain.Now he sat down and looked at the grapes in disgust."What a fool I am," he said. "Here I am wearing myself out to get a bunch of sour grapes that are not worth gaping for."And off he walked very, very scornfully.
There are many who pretend to despise and belittle that which is beyond their reach.]]>59aesops,belittle,despite,fable,fox,grapes,minute,moral,one,quick,storyclean112fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-hares-and-the-frogs--60994606https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994606Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:58:54 +0000Sophia Austin55cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dolphin-and-the-monkey--60994607https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994607Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:58:44 +0000Sophia Austin111cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-kid-and-the-wolf--60994608A frisky young Kid had been left by the herdsman on the thatched roof of a sheep shelter to keep him out of harm's way. The Kid was browsing near the edge of the roof, when he spied a Wolf and began to jeer at him, making faces and abusing him to his heart's content."I hear you," said the Wolf, "and I haven't the least grudge against you for what you say or do. When you are up there it is the roof that's talking, not you."

Do not say anything at any time that you would not say at all times.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994608Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:58:33 +0000Sophia AustinTHE KID AND THE WOLF A frisky young Kid had been left by the herdsman on the thatched roof of a sheep shelter to keep him out of harm's way. The Kid was browsing near the edge of the roof, when he spied a Wolf and began to jeer at him, making faces...A frisky young Kid had been left by the herdsman on the thatched roof of a sheep shelter to keep him out of harm's way. The Kid was browsing near the edge of the roof, when he spied a Wolf and began to jeer at him, making faces and abusing him to his heart's content."I hear you," said the Wolf, "and I haven't the least grudge against you for what you say or do. When you are up there it is the roof that's talking, not you."

Do not say anything at any time that you would not say at all times.]]>43aesop,fable,kid,minute,moral,one,quick,story,tale,wolfclean110fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-oak-and-the-reeds--60994609https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994609Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:58:21 +0000Sophia Austin83cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-goose-and-the-golden-egg--60994610https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994610Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:58:11 +0000Sophia Austin54cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-and-the-leopard--60994611https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994611Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:57:59 +0000Sophia Austin69cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-monkey-and-the-cat--60994612https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994612Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:57:47 +0000Sophia Austin93cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-lion-and-the-gnat--60994613https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994613Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:57:36 +0000Sophia Austin79cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-frogs-and-the-ox--60994614An Ox came down to a reedy pool to drink. As he splashed heavily into the water, he crushed a young Frog into the mud. The old Frog soon missed the little one and asked his brothers and sisters what had become of him."A great big monster," said one of them, "stepped on little brother with one of his huge feet!""Big, was he!" said the old Frog, puffing herself up. "Was he as big as this?""Oh, much bigger!" they cried.The Frog puffed up still more."He could not have been bigger than this," she said. But the little Frogs all declared that the monster was much, much bigger and the old Frog kept puffing herself out more and more until, all at once, she burst.
Do not attempt the impossible.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994614Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:57:25 +0000Sophia AustinTHE FROGS AND THE OX An Ox came down to a reedy pool to drink. As he splashed heavily into the water, he crushed a young Frog into the mud. The old Frog soon missed the little one and asked his brothers and sisters what had become of him."A great...An Ox came down to a reedy pool to drink. As he splashed heavily into the water, he crushed a young Frog into the mud. The old Frog soon missed the little one and asked his brothers and sisters what had become of him."A great big monster," said one of them, "stepped on little brother with one of his huge feet!""Big, was he!" said the old Frog, puffing herself up. "Was he as big as this?""Oh, much bigger!" they cried.The Frog puffed up still more."He could not have been bigger than this," she said. But the little Frogs all declared that the monster was much, much bigger and the old Frog kept puffing herself out more and more until, all at once, she burst.
Do not attempt the impossible.]]>66aesop's,attempt,fable,frogs,impossible,oxclean14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-plane-tree--60994615https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994615Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:57:13 +0000Sophia Austin40cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-monkey-and-the-camel--60994616https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994616Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:57:02 +0000Sophia Austin77cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-frog-and-the-mouse--60994617https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994617Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:56:51 +0000Sophia Austin91cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-gnat-and-the-bull--60994618A Gnat flew over the meadow with much buzzing for so small a creature and settled on the tip of one of the horns of a Bull. After he had rested a short time, he made ready to fly away. But before he left he begged the Bull's pardon for having used his horn for a resting place."You must be very glad to have me go now," he said."It's all the same to me," replied the Bull. "I did not even know you were there."
We are often of greater importance in our own eyes than in the eyes of our neighbor.The smaller the mind the greater the conceit.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994618Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:56:38 +0000Sophia AustinTHE GNAT AND THE BULL A Gnat flew over the meadow with much buzzing for so small a creature and settled on the tip of one of the horns of a Bull. After he had rested a short time, he made ready to fly away. But before he left he begged the Bull's...A Gnat flew over the meadow with much buzzing for so small a creature and settled on the tip of one of the horns of a Bull. After he had rested a short time, he made ready to fly away. But before he left he begged the Bull's pardon for having used his horn for a resting place."You must be very glad to have me go now," he said."It's all the same to me," replied the Bull. "I did not even know you were there."
We are often of greater importance in our own eyes than in the eyes of our neighbor.The smaller the mind the greater the conceit.]]>43aesops,bull,conceit,fable,gnat,minds,smallclean119fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-peacock--60994619https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994619Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:56:27 +0000Sophia Austin86cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-shepherd-boy-and-the-wolf--60994620A Shepherd Boy tended his master's Sheep near a dark forest not far from the village. Soon he found life in the pasture very dull. All he could do to amuse himself was to talk to his dog or play on his shepherd's pipe.One day as he sat watching the Sheep and the quiet forest, and thinking what he would do should he see a Wolf, he thought of a plan to amuse himself.His Master had told him to call for help should a Wolf attack the flock, and the Villagers would drive it away. So now, though he had not seen anything that even looked like a Wolf, he ran toward the village shouting at the top of his voice, "Wolf! Wolf!"As he expected, the Villagers who heard the cry dropped their work and ran in great excitement to the pasture. But when they got there they found the Boy doubled up with laughter at the trick he had played on them.A few days later the Shepherd Boy again shouted, "Wolf! Wolf!" Again the Villagers ran to help him, only to be laughed at again.Then one evening as the sun was setting behind the forest and the shadows were creeping out over the pasture, a Wolf really did spring from the underbrush and fall upon the Sheep.In terror the Boy ran toward the village shouting "Wolf! Wolf!" But though the Villagers heard the cry, they did not run to help him as they had before. "He cannot fool us again," they said.The Wolf killed a great many of the Boy's sheep and then slipped away into the forest.Liars are not believed even when they speak the truth.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994620Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:55:57 +0000Sophia AustinTHE SHEPHERD BOY AND THE WOLF A Shepherd Boy tended his master's Sheep near a dark forest not far from the village. Soon he found life in the pasture very dull. All he could do to amuse himself was to talk to his dog or play on his shepherd's pipe.One...A Shepherd Boy tended his master's Sheep near a dark forest not far from the village. Soon he found life in the pasture very dull. All he could do to amuse himself was to talk to his dog or play on his shepherd's pipe.One day as he sat watching the Sheep and the quiet forest, and thinking what he would do should he see a Wolf, he thought of a plan to amuse himself.His Master had told him to call for help should a Wolf attack the flock, and the Villagers would drive it away. So now, though he had not seen anything that even looked like a Wolf, he ran toward the village shouting at the top of his voice, "Wolf! Wolf!"As he expected, the Villagers who heard the cry dropped their work and ran in great excitement to the pasture. But when they got there they found the Boy doubled up with laughter at the trick he had played on them.A few days later the Shepherd Boy again shouted, "Wolf! Wolf!" Again the Villagers ran to help him, only to be laughed at again.Then one evening as the sun was setting behind the forest and the shadows were creeping out over the pasture, a Wolf really did spring from the underbrush and fall upon the Sheep.In terror the Boy ran toward the village shouting "Wolf! Wolf!" But though the Villagers heard the cry, they did not run to help him as they had before. "He cannot fool us again," they said.The Wolf killed a great many of the Boy's sheep and then slipped away into the forest.Liars are not believed even when they speak the truth.]]>106aesops,believed,fable,liars,not,shepherd,telling,truth,wolfclean118fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-lion-the-bear-and-the-fox--60994621https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994621Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:55:44 +0000Sophia Austin49cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fox-and-the-stork--60994622https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994622Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:55:33 +0000Sophia Austin111cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-mice-and-the-weasels--60994623https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994623Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:55:16 +0000Sophia Austin92cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-spendthrift-and-the-swallow--60994624https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994624Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:55:04 +0000Sophia Austin69cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-stag-and-his-reflection--60994625https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994625Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:54:53 +0000Sophia Austin60cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-tortoise-and-the-ducks--60994626The Tortoise, you know, carries his house on his back. No matter how hard he tries, he cannot leave home. They say that Jupiter punished him so, because he was such a lazy stay-at-home that he would not go to Jupiter's wedding, even when especially invited.After many years, Tortoise began to wish he had gone to that wedding. When he saw how gaily the birds flew about and how the Hare and the Chipmunk and all the other animals ran nimbly by, always eager to see everything there was to be seen, the Tortoise felt very sad and discontented. He wanted to see the world too, and there he was with a house on his back and little short legs that could hardly drag him along.One day he met a pair of Ducks and told them all his trouble."We can help you to see the world," said the Ducks. "Take hold of this stick with your teeth and we will carry you far up in the air where you can see the whole countryside. But keep quiet or you will be sorry."The Tortoise was very glad indeed. He seized the stick firmly with his teeth, the two Ducks took hold of it one at each end, and away they sailed up toward the clouds.Just then a Crow flew by. He was very much astonished at the strange sight and cried:"This must surely be the King of Tortoises!""Why certainly——" began the Tortoise.But as he opened his mouth to say these foolish words he lost his hold on the stick, and down he fell to the ground, where he was dashed to pieces on a rock.
Foolish curiosity and vanity often lead to misfortune.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994626Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:54:42 +0000Sophia AustinTHE TORTOISE AND THE DUCKS The Tortoise, you know, carries his house on his back. No matter how hard he tries, he cannot leave home. They say that Jupiter punished him so, because he was such a lazy stay-at-home that he would not go to Jupiter's...The Tortoise, you know, carries his house on his back. No matter how hard he tries, he cannot leave home. They say that Jupiter punished him so, because he was such a lazy stay-at-home that he would not go to Jupiter's wedding, even when especially invited.After many years, Tortoise began to wish he had gone to that wedding. When he saw how gaily the birds flew about and how the Hare and the Chipmunk and all the other animals ran nimbly by, always eager to see everything there was to be seen, the Tortoise felt very sad and discontented. He wanted to see the world too, and there he was with a house on his back and little short legs that could hardly drag him along.One day he met a pair of Ducks and told them all his trouble."We can help you to see the world," said the Ducks. "Take hold of this stick with your teeth and we will carry you far up in the air where you can see the whole countryside. But keep quiet or you will be sorry."The Tortoise was very glad indeed. He seized the stick firmly with his teeth, the two Ducks took hold of it one at each end, and away they sailed up toward the clouds.Just then a Crow flew by. He was very much astonished at the strange sight and cried:"This must surely be the King of Tortoises!""Why certainly——" began the Tortoise.But as he opened his mouth to say these foolish words he lost his hold on the stick, and down he fell to the ground, where he was dashed to pieces on a rock.
Foolish curiosity and vanity often lead to misfortune.]]>120aesop's,curiousity,ducks,fables,minute,one,tortoise,vanityclean12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wold-in-sheep-s-clothing--60994627https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994627Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:54:30 +0000Sophia Austin54cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-vain-jackdaw-and-his-borrowed-feathers--60994628https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994628Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:54:15 +0000Sophia Austin86cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wild-boar-and-the-fox--60994629https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994629Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:54:04 +0000Sophia Austin57cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wolf-and-the-ass--60994630https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994630Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:53:52 +0000Sophia Austin84cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-two-goats--60994631https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994631Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:53:41 +0000Sophia Austin60cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wolf-and-the-kid--60994632Do not let anything turn you from your purpose.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994632Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:53:30 +0000Sophia AustinThere was once a little Kid whose growing horns made him think he was a grown-up Billy Goat and able to take care of himself. So one evening when the flock started home from the pasture and his mother called, the Kid paid no heed and kept right on...Do not let anything turn you from your purpose.]]>112aesops,fables,kid,minute,moral,one,purpose,quick,short,story,wolfclean11fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-two-pots--60994633https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994633Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:53:19 +0000Sophia Austin71cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wolf-and-the-shepherd--60994634https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994634Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:53:07 +0000Sophia Austin46cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wolf-and-the-goat--60994635https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994635Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:52:56 +0000Sophia Austin53cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wolf-and-the-crane--60994636A Wolf had been feasting too greedily, and a bone had stuck crosswise in his throat. He could get it neither up nor down, and of course he could not eat a thing. Naturally that was an awful state of affairs for a greedy Wolf.So away he hurried to the Crane. He was sure that she, with her long neck and bill, would easily be able to reach the bone and pull it out."I will reward you very handsomely," said the Wolf, "if you pull that bone out for me."The Crane, as you can imagine, was very uneasy about putting her head in a Wolf's throat. But she was grasping in nature, so she did what the Wolf asked her to do.When the Wolf felt that the bone was gone, he started to walk away."But what about my reward!" called the Crane anxiously."What!" snarled the Wolf, whirling around. "Haven't you got it? Isn't it enough that I let you take your head out of my mouth without snapping it off?"
Expect no reward for serving the wicked.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994636Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:52:45 +0000Sophia AustinTHE WOLF AND THE CRANE A Wolf had been feasting too greedily, and a bone had stuck crosswise in his throat. He could get it neither up nor down, and of course he could not eat a thing. Naturally that was an awful state of affairs for a greedy Wolf.So...A Wolf had been feasting too greedily, and a bone had stuck crosswise in his throat. He could get it neither up nor down, and of course he could not eat a thing. Naturally that was an awful state of affairs for a greedy Wolf.So away he hurried to the Crane. He was sure that she, with her long neck and bill, would easily be able to reach the bone and pull it out."I will reward you very handsomely," said the Wolf, "if you pull that bone out for me."The Crane, as you can imagine, was very uneasy about putting her head in a Wolf's throat. But she was grasping in nature, so she did what the Wolf asked her to do.When the Wolf felt that the bone was gone, he started to walk away."But what about my reward!" called the Crane anxiously."What!" snarled the Wolf, whirling around. "Haven't you got it? Isn't it enough that I let you take your head out of my mouth without snapping it off?"
Expect no reward for serving the wicked.]]>69aesop,crane,fable,no,reward,serving,wicked,wolfclean114fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-town-mouse-and-the-country-mouse--60994637A Town Mouse once visited a relative who lived in the country. For lunch the Country Mouse served wheat stalks, roots, and acorns, with a dash of cold water for drink. The Town Mouse ate very sparingly, nibbling a little of this and a little of that, and by her manner making it very plain that she ate the simple food only to be polite.After the meal the friends had a long talk, or rather the Town Mouse talked about her life in the city while the Country Mouse listened. They then went to bed in a cozy nest in the hedgerow and slept in quiet and comfort until morning. In her sleep the Country Mouse dreamed she was a Town Mouse with all the luxuries and delights of city life that her friend had described for her. So the next day when the Town Mouse asked the Country Mouse to go home with her to the city, she gladly said yes.When they reached the mansion in which the Town Mouse lived, they found on the table in the dining room the leavings of a very fine banquet. There were sweetmeats and jellies, pastries, delicious cheeses, indeed, the most tempting foods that a Mouse can imagine. But just as the Country Mouse was about to nibble a dainty bit of pastry, she heard a Cat mew loudly and scratch at the door. In great fear the Mice scurried to a hiding place, where they lay quite still for a long time, hardly daring to breathe. When at last they ventured back to the feast, the door opened suddenly and in came the servants to clear the table, followed by the House Dog.The Country Mouse stopped in the Town Mouse's den only long enough to pick up her carpet bag and umbrella."You may have luxuries and dainties that I have not," she said as she hurried away, "but I prefer my plain food and simple life in the country with the peace and security that go with it."
Poverty with security is better than plenty in the midst of fear and uncertainty.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994637Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:52:25 +0000Sophia AustinTHE TOWN MOUSE AND THE COUNTRY MOUSE A Town Mouse once visited a relative who lived in the country. For lunch the Country Mouse served wheat stalks, roots, and acorns, with a dash of cold water for drink. The Town Mouse ate very sparingly, nibbling a...A Town Mouse once visited a relative who lived in the country. For lunch the Country Mouse served wheat stalks, roots, and acorns, with a dash of cold water for drink. The Town Mouse ate very sparingly, nibbling a little of this and a little of that, and by her manner making it very plain that she ate the simple food only to be polite.After the meal the friends had a long talk, or rather the Town Mouse talked about her life in the city while the Country Mouse listened. They then went to bed in a cozy nest in the hedgerow and slept in quiet and comfort until morning. In her sleep the Country Mouse dreamed she was a Town Mouse with all the luxuries and delights of city life that her friend had described for her. So the next day when the Town Mouse asked the Country Mouse to go home with her to the city, she gladly said yes.When they reached the mansion in which the Town Mouse lived, they found on the table in the dining room the leavings of a very fine banquet. There were sweetmeats and jellies, pastries, delicious cheeses, indeed, the most tempting foods that a Mouse can imagine. But just as the Country Mouse was about to nibble a dainty bit of pastry, she heard a Cat mew loudly and scratch at the door. In great fear the Mice scurried to a hiding place, where they lay quite still for a long time, hardly daring to breathe. When at last they ventured back to the feast, the door opened suddenly and in came the servants to clear the table, followed by the House Dog.The Country Mouse stopped in the Town Mouse's den only long enough to pick up her carpet bag and umbrella."You may have luxuries and dainties that I have not," she said as she hurried away, "but I prefer my plain food and simple life in the country with the peace and security that go with it."
Poverty with security is better than plenty in the midst of fear and uncertainty.]]>140aesops,country,fable,moral,mouse,story,townclean111fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wolf-and-the-lamb--60994638https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994638Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:52:13 +0000Sophia Austin111cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/three-bullocks-and-a-lion--60994639https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994639Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:52:03 +0000Sophia Austin66cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wolf-and-the-lion--60994640https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994640Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:51:50 +0000Sophia Austin47cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-astrologer--60994580https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994580Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:51:15 +0000Sophia Austin79cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/belling-the-cat--60994566The Mice once called a meeting to decide on a plan to free themselves of their enemy, the Cat. At least they wished to find some way of knowing when she was coming, so they might have time to run away. Indeed, something had to be done, for they lived in such constant fear of her claws that they hardly dared stir from their dens by night or day.Many plans were discussed, but none of them was thought good enough. At last a very young Mouse got up and said:"I have a plan that seems very simple, but I know it will be successful. All we have to do is to hang a bell about the Cat's neck. When we hear the bell ringing we will know immediately that our enemy is coming."All the Mice were much surprised that they had not thought of such a plan before. But in the midst of the rejoicing over their good fortune, an old Mouse arose and said:"I will say that the plan of the young Mouse is very good. But let me ask one question: Who will bell the Cat?"
It is one thing to say that something should be done, but quite a different matter to do it.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60994566Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:38:25 +0000Sophia AustinBELLING THE CAT The Mice once called a meeting to decide on a plan to free themselves of their enemy, the Cat. At least they wished to find some way of knowing when she was coming, so they might have time to run away. Indeed, something had to be done,...The Mice once called a meeting to decide on a plan to free themselves of their enemy, the Cat. At least they wished to find some way of knowing when she was coming, so they might have time to run away. Indeed, something had to be done, for they lived in such constant fear of her claws that they hardly dared stir from their dens by night or day.Many plans were discussed, but none of them was thought good enough. At last a very young Mouse got up and said:"I have a plan that seems very simple, but I know it will be successful. All we have to do is to hang a bell about the Cat's neck. When we hear the bell ringing we will know immediately that our enemy is coming."All the Mice were much surprised that they had not thought of such a plan before. But in the midst of the rejoicing over their good fortune, an old Mouse arose and said:"I will say that the plan of the young Mouse is very good. But let me ask one question: Who will bell the Cat?"
It is one thing to say that something should be done, but quite a different matter to do it.]]>83aesop's,against,belling,cat,cats,fable,fairy,group,mice,short,story,tale,theclean16full