One day long ago in rome, a slave named Androcles ran away from his evil master. He ran and ran into the woods. At last Androcles came to a stop. I will be safe here,he said. Two days went by, but no food or water. What would Androcles do – how could he live? All of a sudden, there was a deep moan. Then a full, big roar. Oh, my said Androcles. It s a lion Full of fear, he ran as fast as his legs could go. But Androcles did not see a tree root under his foot. Then, thwap His face went down on the ground. And his foot was stuck. He had to get his foot free from the root, and fast! Soon Androcles was up on his feet again but - Oh no! There coming slowly right at him, was the lion! It moaned and walked in an odd way. Could it be hurt? Androcles froze in fear. The lion held out one paw to Androcles, and moaned again. After a bit, Androcles said, Are you hurt? The lion gave Androcles a big sad look, like a kitten. I must be out of my mind to even think about doing this, he said. Just the same, Androcles stepped closer to the lion. And what did he see in the paw held out to him, but one big ugly thorn! You poor thing! said Androcles in a soft voice. He knew the lion would not feel better until the thorn was gone. But should he pull it out? That would hurt a lot, and the lion could get very mad! But he beast looked at Androcles with very big eyes. And he gave such a low sad moan that Androcles knew at once what he must do. With great care, Androcles stepped close to the lion. He set his two hands on the paw. In one quick flash he drew out the thorn. The lion roared and roared with pain! Androcles cried out in fear, What a mess I am in! But as if the lion knew his paw would get better and it was all thanks to Androcles, he gave Androcles one big lick on the leg.