A fable by Ambrose Bierce
Satire for older readers

A herdsman who had lost a bullock fervently entreated the gods to reveal the identity of the thief. In his desperation, he vowed to sacrifice a goat in gratitude for their assistance.
Just then, a lion approached him, its jaws dripping with the blood of his stolen bullock.
"I thank you, good deities," said the herdsman, continuing his prayer with a mix of relief and reverence. "You have shown me the thief. And now, if you will take him away, I will gladly offer another goat in sacrifice."
Be careful what you wish for, because you may not want it when it comes.
Advertisement
Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane