The Ass and his Purchaser

英语自学网

The Ass and his Purchaser
        A man who wanted to buy an Ass went to market, and, coming across
        a likely-looking beast, arranged with the owner that he should be
        allowed to take him home on trial to see what he was like. When he
        reached home, he put him into his stable along with the other asses.
        The newcomer took a look round, and immediately went and chose a place
        next to the laziest and greediest beast in the stable. When the master
        saw this he put a halter on him at once, and led him off and handed
        him over to his owner again. The latter was a good deal surprised to
        seem him back so soon, and said, "Why, do you mean to say you have
        tested him already?" "I don't want to put him through any more tests,"
        replied the other. "I could see what sort of beast he is from the
        companion he chose for himself."
         
       
        "A man is known by the company he keeps."