A CARTER was driving a waggon1 loaded with a merchant's goods, when

　　the wheels stuck in a rut. Thereupon he began to pray to Hercules,

　　without other exertion2.

　　"Indolent fellow!" said Hercules; "you ask me to help you, but will

　　not help yourself."

　　So the Carter helped himself to so many of the most valuable goods

　　that the horses easily ran away with the remainder.