A MEAN LITTLE PIG.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXIV, Issue XX, 19 May 1900, Page 959

A MEAN LITTLE PIG.

A little pig once had a field wherein he used to root up the ground with a good deal of industry, and raise a number of choice vegetables for market. so he in time acquired some little reputation as a market gardener. One season, however, there appeared in a corner of his garden a new and peculiar growth. No one knew what it was or cared to find out by t ry ing. The little pig was about to destroy it when one day a friendly goose looked in for a few moments’ chat. Upon being shown the stuff he said eagerly: “Why, that is a salad much used by a certain people with scrambled eggs. I know some folks who would buy all you have if you offered it to them with nice fresh eggs. I will lay some at once, and we will offer it together.” This the goose proceeded to do, and some days later offered the salad and eggs together, and sold the entire lot, much to the joy of the* little pig. who took a day off to celebrate bis good fortune and buy some new clothes. A few days later the goose came again to the little pig. saying that she had a few eggs on hand which she thought might be easily disposed of with salad. “Oh.” said the little pig. “but my salad is all gone,” and he rooted away busily. “Yes,” replied the goose, “but it grows very quickly, and if you will root up the bed a little there will be plenty in a few days, and it will be a favour to me.” “Sorry, indeed.” grunted the little pig. without looking up. “but my fimc is well occupied just now in raising vegetables that sell on their own merits.” and he continued grunting away to himself and rooting ns the poor goose walked sorrowfully on. Moral: Don't be goose enough to expert gratitude* from a little pig.