Story Summary

A cattle-farming father and son live in a village surrounded by a valley inhabited by wolves. One day, while minding the cattle in the valley, Sam, the shepherd, alerts the villagers to an imminent wolf attack. The villagers come to the rescue, but not a wolf is in sight. The villagers doubt Sam's judgment and call him a liar.

When the same thing happens again, Sam's father also accuses him of lying. Zarack, the wolf leader, is very smart. On the third attempt, without any opposition from the village, all the cattle are killed. The villagers are devastated. Sam is no longer doubted, and each villager gives Sam a calf in repentance for their poor judgment.