The Fly and the Draught-Mule
A fly sat on the axle of a chariot and, addressing the draught-mule, said, "How slow you are! Why do you not go faster? See if I do not prick your neck with my sting."
The draught-mule replied, "I do not heed your threats. I only care for him who sits above you, and who quickens my pace with his whip or holds me back with the reins. Away, therefore, with your insolence, for I know well when to go fast and when to go slow."