Then follow the ass's eighteen years, when one
burden after another is laid on him, he has to carry the corn which feeds
others, and blows and kicks are the reward of his faithful services. Then
come the dog's twelve years, when he lies in the corner, and growls and
has no longer any teeth to bite with, and when this time is over the
monkey's ten years form the end. Then man is weak-headed and foolish,
does silly things, and becomes the jest of the children.
177 Death's Messengers
In ancient times a giant was once travelling on a great highway, when
suddenly an unknown man sprang up before him, and said, "Halt, not one
step farther!" "What!" cried the giant, "a creature whom I can crush
between my fingers, wants to block my way? Who art thou that thou darest
to speak so boldly?" "I am Death," answered the other. "No one resists me,
and thou also must obey my commands." But the giant refused, and began to
struggle with Death. It was a long, violent battle, at last the giant got
the upper hand, and struck Death down with his fist, so that he dropped
by a stone.
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