The Grasshopper, a great musician,
a celebrated master of song,
sang all through the summer days,
carefree beneath the sun.

But when the north wind came
and winter spread across the land,
he found himself with neither food
nor shelter from the cold.

Then suddenly he thought
of paying a visit to the Ant.
He begged him earnestly
for a few grains to borrow

until the coming harvest.
"I shall repay you," he swore,
"before August comes again,
with interest and principal together."

The Ant was not accustomed
to giving away his stores;
that, perhaps, was the least
of his shortcomings.

"What did you do," he asked,
"during those pleasant days,
that now you ask for my compassion?"

"Day and night, forgive me,
I sang without ceasing."

"You sang? I am delighted to hear it. Well then, dance now."