The Treacherous Cur

15. THE TREACHEROUS CUR. A certaom Merchant had a Dog called "Clerk," in whom he placed a particular confidence. He fed the creature from his own table, and, in short, took more care of him than of any of his fellows. This kindness, however, was but ill repaid; for, one day, no sooner was the Merchant's back turned, than the rascally hound flew to the safe, tore it open, and helped himself to all the choice bits that his benefactor, with much care, had scraped together for the sustenance of his own children. But, fortunately, his Master returned in time to detect him in the act, and bade him prepare for punishment.
"Master," said the Cur, in excuse, "bethink you, I am one of your family. I am a Dog who has hitherto borne a good name. Punish me not for this first offence; rather turn your displeasure upon those rascals the Wolves, who make a daily practice of plunder."
"No! No!" replies his Master. "I would rather spare forty Wolves, who rob through want or evil-training, than a Dog like you, who is faithless to trust and insensible to kindness."
So the Dog was bound and carried out of the house, and consigned to the mercy of deep water, with a heavy chain attached to him to keep him from finding his way back again.
MORAL. In the country of Traitors the mere Thief is chosen as king, on account of his superior honesty. [more info]