Fantastic Fables by Ambrose Bierce

50 - The Thistles upon the Grave

The Sagacious Rat - 52

The Shadow of the Leader

A POLITICAL Leader was walking out one sunny day, when he observed his Shadow leaving him and walking rapidly away.

"Come back here, you scoundrel," he cried.

"If I had been a scoundrel," answered the Shadow, increasing its speed, "I should not have left you."

Contents

50 - The Thistles upon the Grave

The Sagacious Rat - 52