The Hares once gathered to cry about their unhappiness, being exposed to dangers on all sides and lacking strength and courage. Men, dogs, birds and beasts were all their enemies, and killed and devoured them: sooner than endure such persecution, they determined to end their lives.
They rushed to a neighboring pool, intending to drown themselves. On the bank were a number of Frogs, who, hearing the noise of the Hares, leaped into the water and hid themselves there. Then one of the older, wiser Hares cried out, "Stop, friends, take heart; don't let us destroy ourselves. For here are creatures who are afraid of us, and who must be still more timid than ourselves."
