There was once a wise old owl. He had spent his life working hard to make a living for himself, and the family he had always hoped to have. He planned to marry and have children that he could give his fortune to when he passed away. But the family he had always dreamed of never came. It was on one rainy Tuesday, when the owl received news from the doctor that his time was almost up. It was that day that the owl realized he would never have children of his own to pass his riches onto. Thus aroused the question, who would be the lucky one?

            The next day the owl flew to a nearby village. He hoped he might find someone worthy of his fortune. He came upon two orphaned animals, a dog, and a raccoon.

            “Why good day to you,” the owl said in his jolly voice. “You see children, there is a jar full of money in my home. If you were to come home with me I would give you each a small amount of it every day. Who knows, if you stay long enough, it could grow into a small fortune! That is, as long as you do not take more than your share.” The owl did not tell them though, that the grand prize for who did not rob was his entire wealth. If the animals had known this, they might have not shown their true personalities. Therefore, it was to be kept a secret.

            The animals looked at each other for a moment and then the raccoon stepped forward. “That sounds like a fine offer, I will be sure not to take more than you see fit.” he lied. The dog trotted along after him, smiling graciously at the owl as he followed him home.

            When the group arrived at the owl’s house, they had a good dinner, and went straight to bed. The next morning they were all awoken by the sounds of the birds chirping. The dog and raccoon raced into the kitchen to see if any of the money had been stolen. Sure enough, only a few coins remained in the jar.