The Basking Cyclone

A man was out in a boat, gathering driftwood, when he spotted what he believed to be a log. However, upon closer inspection, he realized it was a sleeping alligator. Thinking about how useful the creature could be, he began estimating how many shingles he could make for his new cabin from its hide.

Satisfied with his calculations, he decided to take action. He jabbed his boat-hook into the alligator's back, intending to claim his unexpected fortune. Suddenly, the alligator awoke from its slumber and plunged into the water, startling the man.

As he regained his composure, he exclaimed, "I never before seen such a cyclone as that! It done carry away the roof of my house!" The encounter left him both bewildered and amused, realizing that sometimes fortune comes in the most unexpected forms.