To have seen and heard Blacky the Crow as he talked to Reddy Fox , you would have thought that there was nothing under the sun in his heart or mind but pity . `` Yes , Sir , '' said he , `` I certainly would be tempted to show you where those fat hens are if you were not too weak . I just ca n't bear to see an old friend starve . It is too bad that those fat hens are so far away . I feel sure that one of them would make you quite yourself again . '' `` Do n't -- do n't talk about them , '' said Reddy feebly . `` If I could have just one fat hen that is all I would ask . Are they so very far from here ? '' Blacky nodded his head vigorously . `` Yes , '' said he , `` they are a long way from here . They are such a long way that I 'm afraid you are too weak to make the journey . If you were quite yourself you could do it nicely , but for one in your condition it is , I fear , altogether too long a journey . '' `` It would n't do any harm to try it , perhaps , '' suggested Reddy , in a hesitating way . `` It is no worse to starve to death in one place than another , and I never was one to give up without trying . If you do n't mind showing me the way , Brother Blacky , I would at least like to try to reach that place where the fat hens are . Of course I can not keep up with you . In fact , I could n't if I were feeling well and strong . Perhaps you can tell me just how to find that place , and then I need n't bother you at all . '' Blacky pretended to be lost in thought while Reddy watched him anxiously . Finally Blacky spoke .
`` It certainly makes my heart ache to see you in such a condition , Brother XXXXX , '' said he .
Blacky Crow Fox Reddy harm head mind pity sun thought