The best animal in the forest
Many years ago an elephant and a monkey had a quarrel The elephant was proud because he was the strongest animal. The monkey was proud because he was the quickest animal. They went to Old Bird to ask for his help.
'We cannot agree,' they told Old Bird. Tell us, please. Which of us is the best animal in the forest?' Old Bird said, 'There are some big trees across that river. Go and get the fruit from the furthest tree. Bring it to me.'
The monkey could not swim. The elephant said to him, 'Get on my back' The tree was very high. Only the monkey could climb it. He threw the fruit to the elephant. Then they crossed the river again. They gave the fruit to Old Bird and said, 'Now tell us, please. Which of us is the best animal?'
'Can anybody answer the question: which is the best animal in the forest?' asked Old Bird. The elephant could not get the fruit alone. The monkey could not get the fruit alone. But the two could get it together.
