Aesop
Ancient Greek fabulist of possibly African descent, by tradition a slave who credited the African goddess Isis for his gift.
Thinking to get at once all the gold the goose could give, he killed it and opened it only to find - nothing.
Familiarity breeds contempt or Acquaintance softens prejudices.
The boy cried "Wolf, wolf!" and the villagers came out to help him.
Slow and steady wins the race.
Be content with your lot; one cannot be first in everything.
Better be wise by the misfortunes of others than by your own.
Any excuse will serve a tyrant.
We would often be sorry if our wishes were gratified.
A crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety.
It is thrifty to prepare today for the wants of tomorrow.
I am sure the grapes are sour.
While I see many hoof marks going in, I see none coming out. It is easier to get into the enemy's toils than out again.
Beware lest you lose the substance by grasping at the shadow.
Put your shoulder to the wheel.
Never trust the advice of a man in difficulties.
Do not count your chickens before they are hatched.
In critical moments even the very powerful have need of the weakest.
I will have nought to do with a man who can blow hot and cold with the same breath.
The fly sat upon the axel-tree of the chariot-wheel and said, What a dust do I raise!
Persuasion is often more effectual than force.