The Man and the Weasel

A Weasel, on being caught by a Man, wishing to escape impending death, "Pray," said she, "do spare me, for it is I who keep your house clear of troublesome mice." The Man answered; "If you did so for my sake, there would be a reason for thanking you, and I should have granted you the pardon you entreat. But, inasmuch as you do your best that you may enjoy the scraps which they would have gnawed, and devour the mice as well, don't think of placing your pretended services to my account." So saying, he put the wicked creature to death. Those persons ought to recognize this as applicable to themselves, whose object is private advantage.