Jackal, "get thee at a distance; for if thou dost not, I will put thee
to death."

"Hear me for a moment," replied Puss, "and then determine whether I
merit either to be punished or to be killed; for what is any one,
simply by birth, to be punished or applauded? When his deeds have been
scrutinized, he may, indeed, be either praiseworthy or punishable."

The Jackal after this desired the Cat to give some account of himself,
and he complied in the following words: "I am," said he, "in the
constant habit of performing ablutions on the side of this river; I
never eat flesh, and I lead that mode of life which is called
Brahma-Charya[2]. So, as thou art distinguished amongst those of thy
own species, noted for skill in religious matters, and as a repository
of confidence, and as the birds here are always speaking before me in
praise of thy good qualities, I am come to hear from thy mouth, who art
so old in wisdom, the duties of religion. Thou, master, art acquainted
with the customs of life; but these young birds, who are in ignorance,
would fain drive me, who am a stranger, away. The duties of a
housekeeper are thus enjoined:

"Hospitality is commanded to be exercised, even toward an enemy, when
he cometh to thine house. The tree doth not withdraw its shade, even
from the wood-cutter.

"And again:

"Some straw, a room, water, and in the fourth place, gentle words.
These things are never to be refused in good men's houses."