Story Summary

A Traveler hires an Ass to carry him across a hot, treeless plain, with the Ass's owner accompanying them on foot to guide the way. As the intense sun beats down, both Traveler and Driver seek shade under the Ass.

An argument erupts over who has rights to the Ass's shadow—the Traveler who hired the Ass or the Driver who owns it. Their quarrel escalates into a fight, distracting them both. Seizing the opportunity, the Ass, left unattended, escapes and runs away.