A tortoise lived in a lake with two geese who were his best friends. He loved to talk, and he talked all day long.
One summer there was no rain, and the lake began to dry up. “We will fly to a bigger lake,” said the geese. “But how will you come with us?”
They had an idea. “Hold the middle of this stick in your mouth, and we will each hold one end and fly. But promise us one thing: whatever happens, do not open your mouth.” The tortoise promised.
Up they went, over fields and villages. People below pointed and laughed. “Look! Two geese are carrying a tortoise on a stick!”
The tortoise could not bear it. “What is it to you?” he began to say, and as soon as he opened his mouth, he let go of the stick and fell.
The geese flew on, sad for their friend. Sometimes the wisest thing to do is to keep quiet, especially when we have made a promise.