The Frogs That Rode Snakeback

An elderly snake named Slow-Poison found hunting difficult. Near a pond full of frogs, he lay sadly on the bank and waited for someone to ask why.

He told the frogs that a curse required him to carry them wherever they wished. The frogs were thrilled. Even their king, Water-Foot, climbed onto the snake’s hood for a grand ride.

The next day Slow-Poison moved very slowly. “I am too hungry to carry everyone,” he sighed. Water-Foot carelessly allowed him to take a little food from the far edge of the pond.

Soon several small frogs were missing. Most were too excited by the rides to notice, but a young frog counted the empty lily pads and followed Slow-Poison’s trail.

The youngster warned Water-Foot. The king finally asked clear questions, and Slow-Poison’s story changed each time. All the frogs jumped into deep water and ended the rides at once.

Slow-Poison left to seek honest food elsewhere. Water-Foot apologized for risking others for his own amusement. From then on, the frogs examined every wonderful offer, especially one that made them depend on a stranger.