<SPAN name="THE_FIR-TREE_AND_THE_BRAMBLE"></SPAN>
<h2>THE FIR-TREE AND THE BRAMBLE</h2>
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<p>A Fir-tree was boasting to a Bramble, and said, somewhat
contemptuously, "You poor creature, you are of no use whatever.
Now, look at me: I am useful for all sorts of things, particularly
when men build houses; they can't do without me then." But the
Bramble replied, "Ah, that's all very well: but you wait till they
come with axes and saws to cut you down, and then you'll wish you
were a Bramble and not a Fir."</p>
<p class="adage">Better poverty without a care than wealth with its
many obligations.</p>
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