The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse

A country mouse lived in a small, comfortable home beneath a tree near a quiet field.

He ate simple meals of grains, seeds, berries, and pieces of bread. His life was peaceful, and he was happy with what he had.

One day, his cousin from the town came to visit.

The country mouse welcomed him warmly and prepared the best food he could find.

He placed grains, nuts, berries, and a small piece of cheese on the table.

The town mouse looked at the meal and said:

— Is this all you eat? In the town, I enjoy cakes, fruit, cheese, and many delicious foods. You should come and see how well I live.

The country mouse became curious and agreed to visit.

That evening, the two mice travelled to a large house in the town.

They entered a beautiful dining room where the remains of a great feast were still on the table.

There were cakes, bread, fruit, cheese, and many other treats.

The country mouse had never seen so much food.

— You were right, — he said. — This is wonderful.

The mice began eating, but suddenly the dining-room door opened.

A large dog rushed into the room, barking loudly.

The mice jumped from the table and hid inside a small hole in the wall.

After the dog left, they returned to the food.

Before they could eat again, they heard footsteps. A servant entered the room and began clearing the table.

The frightened mice ran back to their hiding place.

When the room became quiet again, the town mouse said:

— Now we can continue our meal.

But the country mouse shook his head.

— Thank you for your wonderful food, but I am going home. I would rather eat simple meals in peace than enjoy rich food while constantly fearing for my life.

The country mouse returned to his quiet field, grateful for his safe and peaceful home.