The Birdcatcher and the Partridge
Long ago, a cheerful birdcatcher lived beside an old forest. He rose early and set huge nets in green meadows. The colorful forest birds loved his sweet whistle. One day, a small, lovely partridge fell into his cage. The frightened partridge beat its wings and began to cry. The birdcatcher lit the fire and prepared his supper pot.
Desperate to live, the partridge chose to flatter the birdcatcher. "Please spare me; I can help you," said the partridge. The birdcatcher asked, "How can such a small bird help?" The partridge quickly made a plan and offered a trick. "I will call others and lure them into your net." Hearing these wicked words, the birdcatcher frowned in surprise.
He took the partridge out but did not free it. "I never trust birds that betray their friends," he said. The cruel partridge understood its mistake, but too late. The birdcatcher cooked the disloyal partridge for supper without pity. Those who betray friends for profit finally lose alone. Who digs a pit for others falls into it.