A Fox after crossing a river got its tail entangled¹ 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 strolling² by took pity upon the Fox and went up to him:
"You are in a bad way, neighbour," 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."

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