The Overlooked Factor

A man owned a fine dog, and through careful selection of its mate, he bred a number of animals that were almost angelic in nature. However, he fell in love with his washerwoman, married her, and went on to rear a family of less-than-bright children.

"Alas!" he exclaimed, contemplating the melancholy outcome. "Had I only chosen a mate for myself with half the care that I did for my dog, I would now be a proud and happy father."

"I'm not so sure of that," replied the dog, overhearing his lament. "There is certainly a difference between your offspring and mine, but I would venture to flatter myself that this is not entirely due to the mothers. You and I are not entirely alike ourselves."