Aesop's Fables 64

The Fox and the Mosquitoes 

A Fox after crossing a river got its tail entangled in a bush, and could not move. A number of Mosquitoes seeing its plight settled upon it and enjoyed a good meal undisturbed by its tail. 

A hedgehog strolling by took pity upon the Fox and went up to him: "You are in a bad way, neighbor," said the hedgehog; "shall I relieve you by driving off those Mosquitoes who are sucking your blood?" 

"Thank you, Master Hedgehog," said the Fox, "but I would rather not." 

"Why, how is that?" asked the hedgehog. 

"Well, you see," was the answer, "these Mosquitoes have had their fill; if you drive these away, others will come with fresh appetite and bleed me to death."