The Monkey And The Camel

by Aesop

　　At a great celebration in honor of King Lion, the Monkey wasasked to dance for the company. His dancing was very cleverindeed, and the animals were all highly pleased with his graceand lightness.

　　The praise that was showered on the Monkey made the Camelenvious. He was very sure that he could dance quite as well asthe Monkey, if not better, so he pushed his way into the crowdthat was gathered around the Monkey, and rising on his hind legs,began to dance. But the big hulking Camel made himself veryridiculous as he kicked out his knotty legs and twisted his longclumsy neck. Besides, the animals found it hard to keep theirtoes from under his heavy hoofs.

　　At last, when one of his huge feet came within an inch of KingLion's nose, the animals were so disgusted that they set upon theCamel in a rage and drove him out into the desert.

　　Shortly afterward, refreshments, consisting mostly of Camel'shump and ribs, were served to the company.

　　Do not try to ape your betters.