The she-wolf gave birth to a cub and invited the fox to be its godfather. "He is, after all, a close relative," she said. "He is clever and talented; he can teach my little one and help him get ahead in the world."
The fox seemed very sincere. "Honorable Mrs. Gossip," he said, "thank you for this honor. I will conduct myself in a way that repays your kindness." He enjoyed the feast and made merry. Afterwards, he said, "Dear Mrs. Gossip, it's our duty to care for the child. He needs good food to grow strong. I know a sheepfold where we can fetch a nice morsel."
The wolf liked the idea and went with the fox to the farmyard. From a distance, he pointed out the fold. "You can creep in there unseen," he said. "Meanwhile, I'll look around the other side for a chicken." However, he did not go. Instead, he sat at the forest's edge, stretched his legs, and rested.
The she-wolf crept into the stable. A dog was lying there and barked so loudly that the farmers came running. They caught Gossip Wolf and poured a strong, burning liquid meant for washing over her skin. Finally, she escaped and dragged herself away.
There lay the fox, pretending to be full of complaints. "Ah, dear Mistress Gossip," he moaned, "I have fared so poorly! The farmers attacked me and broke all my limbs. If you don't want me to perish here, you must carry me away." The she-wolf could barely move herself, but she was so concerned for the fox that she took him on her back. Slowly, she carried him, perfectly safe and sound, to her house.
Then the fox cried out to her, "Farewell, dear Mistress Gossip! May the roasting you received do you good!" He laughed heartily at her and bounded away.