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Character Index | Proverb Index |
Townsend version
A crab, forsaking the seashore, chose a neighboring green meadow as its feeding ground. A Fox came across him, and being very hungry ate him up. Just as he was on the point of being eaten, the Crab said, "I well deserve my fate, for what business had I on the land, when by my nature and habits I am only adapted for the sea?'
Moral
Contentment with our lot is an element of happiness.
L'Estrange version
A fox that was sharp-set, surpriz'd a crab, as he lay out of the sea upon the sands, and carry'd him away. The crab, when he found that he was to be eaten, Well (says he) this comes of meddling where we have nothing to do; for my bus'ness lay at sea, not upon the land.
Moral
No body pities a man for any misfortune that befalls him, in matters out of his way, bus'ness, or calling.
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Tom Simondi, All Rights Reserved