The Man and the Bird

by Ambrose Bierce

　　A MAN with a Shotgun said to a Bird:"It is all nonsense, you know, about shooting being a cruel sport. I put my skill against your cunning-that is all there is of it. It is a fair game.""True," said the Bird, "but I don't wish to play.""Why not?" inquired the Man with a Shotgun."The game," the Bird replied, "is fair as you say; the chances are about even; but consider the stake. I am in it for you, but what is there in it for me?"Not being prepared with an answer to the question, the Man with a Shotgun sagaciously removed the propounder.