3. The men came running with clubs and axes to destroy
the wolf. As they saw nothing they went home again, and
left John laughing in his sleeve.
4. As he had had so much fun this time, John cried out
again, the next day, "The wolf! the wolf!"
5. The men came again, but not so many as the first time.
Again they saw no trace of the wolf; so they shook their
heads, and went back.
6. On the third day, the wolf came in earnest. John cried in
dismay, "Help! help!

THIRD READER. 43
the wolf! the wolf!" But not a single man came to help him.
7. The wolf broke into the flock, and killed

a great many sheep. Among them was a beautiful lamb,
which belonged to John.
8. Then he felt very sorry that he had deceived his friends
and neighbors, and grieved over the loss of his pet lamb.

The truth itself is not believed,
From one who often has deceived.

44 ECLECTIC SERIES.

LESSON XIV.