Three fish move near a town. One warns about fishing nets, while the others keep delaying their departure.
When they are caught, the careful friend splashes around the net. The fisherman loosens it, and the trapped fish escape.
Adapted from Ellen C. Babbitt, More Jataka Tales (1916), chapter II · Source text & illustration
Fables use imaginary events to invite reflection; interpretations vary.
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Three Friends in the Forest
Mutual care includes returning for the one who helped you.