Wherever flattery gains admission, it seems to banish common sense.
A fox observed a raven perched on a tree branch with a fine piece of cheese in her beak. The fox immediately began to think of a way to get the cheese for himself. “Dear madam,” said the fox, “I am extremely pleased to see you this morning. Your beautiful shape and shiny feathers are a delight to my eyes. If you would condescend to favor me with a song, I have no doubt that your voice would match the rest of your wonderful qualities.”
Deluded by this flattering speech, the raven, eager to show off her voice, opened her mouth to sing. As soon as she did, the cheese fell to the ground. The fox quickly snatched it up and carried it away triumphantly, leaving the raven to lament her credulous vanity.
