A Wild Ass, who was wandering idly about, one day came upon a Pack-Ass lying at full length in a sunny spot and thoroughly enjoying himself. Going up to him, he said, “What a lucky beast you are! Your sleek coat shows how well you live: how I envy you!” Not long after the Wild Ass saw his acquaintance again, but this time he was carrying a heavy load, and his driver was following behind and beating him with a thick stick. “Ah, my friend,” said the Wild Ass, “I don't envy you any more: for I see you pay dear for your comforts.”
Advantages that are dearly bought are doubtful blessings.
一只四处闲逛的野驴有一天碰到了一只驮驴，驮驴平躺在地上晒着太阳，看上去十分享受。他走上前去，说：“你可真是个好命的牲口啊！你的皮毛光滑，说明你生活得很好，我真是嫉妒你啊！”没多久，野驴又看到了驮驴，这次驮驴运载着沉重的货物，赶驴的人跟在后面，拿一根粗棍子打着他。野驴说：“啊呀，我的朋友，我再也不嫉妒你了，你为了享受舒适付出的代价可是很昂贵的。”
训诫：付出高昂代价换来的好处很难说是福分。