A Lion was awakened from sleep by a Mouse running over his face.
Rising up in anger, he caught the Mouse and was about to kill him. The Mouse piteously entreated, saying: "If you would only spare my life, I would be sure to repay your kindness." The Lion laughed and let him go.
It happened shortly after this that the Lion was caught by some hunters, who bound him with strong ropes to the ground.
The Mouse, recognizing his roar, came and gnawed the rope with his teeth. Setting him free, the Mouse exclaimed: "You ridiculed the idea of my ever being able to help you, not expecting any repayment of your favor. But now you know that it is possible for even a Mouse to help a Lion."
Little friends may prove great friends.