The Birds, the Beasts, and the Bat

The Birds waged war with the Beasts,and each were by turns the conquerors. A Bat, fearing the uncertain issues ofthe fight, alwaysfought on the side which he felt was the strongest. When peace was proclaimed, his deceitful conduct was apparent to bothcombatants. Therefore being condemned by each for his treachery, he was driven forth from the light of day, and henceforth concealed himself in dark hiding-places,flying always alone and at night.