as a wagoner was driving his wain through a miry lane, the wheels stuck fast in the clay and the horses could get on no farther. the man immediately dropped on his knees and began crying and praying with all his might to hercules to come and help him.

"lazy fellow!" cried hercules, "get up and stir yourself. whip your horses stoutly, and put your shoulder to the wheel. if you want my help then, you shall have it."