Aesop's Fables
TWO
SOLDIERS traveling together were set upon by a
Robber. The one
fled away; the other stood his ground and
defended himself with his stout right hand. The Robber being
slain, the
timid companion ran up and drew his
sword, and then, throwing back his traveling
cloak said, "I'll at him, and I'll take care he shall learn whom he has attacked." On this, he who had fought with the Robber made answer, "I only
wish that you had helped me just now, even if it had been only with those words, for I should have been the more
encouraged, believing them to be true; but now put up your sword in its
sheath and hold your equally
useless tongue, till you can deceive others who do not know you. I, indeed, who have experienced with what speed you run away, know right well that no
dependence can be placed on your
valor."