The Mango Trap

Jumpy monkey was simple and innocent, and the other forest dwellers often entertained themselves by troubling him or getting him into trouble.

- Vivek Chakravarty

“I’m Jolly, Jolly, Jumpy!” Jumpy was humming his tune while walking when someone called out to him.

“Jumpy, will you help me?” It was Baddy fox, approaching him.

Jumpy was surprised. “Baddy, you need my help?”

“Yes! Can’t I ask you for help? After all, we live in the same forest. Helping each other is only right,” Baddy said.

“Okay, tell me, what do you need help with?”

“Jumpy, could you pluck some mangoes for me from that garden over there?”

“Mangoes? But Baddy, that garden belongs to Jumbo, and you know he doesn’t like anyone plucking fruit from his trees!” Jumpy replied, surprised.

“I need the mangoes to make medicine. I have a terrible stomachache!” Baddy said, pretending to be in pain.

“Sorry, Baddy, I can’t pluck fruit from Jumbo’s garden without asking him,” Jumpy said politely.

Baddy sighed dramatically. “Of course! I’m bad, so no one helps me.”

“It’s not like that, Baddy, but without asking Jumbo ...”

“Forget it, Jumpy! I’ve caused too much trouble in the past. That’s why no one wants to help me,” Baddy said and started walking away, holding his stomach and groaning.

“Wait! You stay here. I’ll go ask Jumbo myself,” Jumpy said, concerned.