A fisherman let down his net into the sea and drew up a sprat. As it was small, it begged him not to take it yet but to let it go, given its size. "When I have grown into a big fish," it said, "you can catch me again, and I'll be worth far more to you." "No," replied the fisherman, "I would be a fool to let go the catch in my hand and count on a catch to come, however large."
It is folly to let go the small profit in your hand for a greater one that is only a hope.
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