Lesson:

1. A boy was once taking care of some sheep, not far from a forest. Nearby was a village, and he was told to call for help if there was any danger.


2. One day, in order to have some fun, he cried out, with all his might, 'The wolf is coming! the wolf is coming!'


3. The men came running with clubs and axes to destroy the wolf. As they saw nothing they went home again, and left John laughing in his sleeve.


4. As he had had so much fun this time, John cried out again, the next day, 'The wolf! the wolf!'


5. The men came again, but not so many as the first time. Again they saw no trace of the wolf; so they shook their heads, and went back.


6. On the third day, the wolf came in earnest. John cried in dismay, 'Help! help! the wolf! the wolf!' But not a single man came to help him.


7. The wolf broke into the flock, and killed a great many sheep. Among them was a beautiful lamb, which belonged to John.


8. Then he felt very sorry that he had deceived his friends and neighbors, and grieved over the loss of his pet lamb.





The truth itself is not believed,


From one who often has deceived.