J. H. Stickney

The Dog in the Manger

A SLEEPY Dog went to the barn, and jumped into a manger full of hay, curling himself up there for an afternoon nap.

When he had been sleeping comfortably for some time, the Oxen came for their supper.

The Dog woke in a great rage at being disturbed, and began to growl and bark at them. He would not let them get at the hay.

"Stop a moment," said one of the Oxen. "Do you want to eat this hay?"

"No," said the Dog; "I shouldn't think of such a thing."

"Very well, then," said the Ox, "we do want to eat it, for we are hungry and tired."

"Oh, go away," growled the Dog, "and let me sleep."

"What an ugly, snappish fellow!" said the Ox. "He will neither eat the hay himself nor let us eat it!"