When the first men saw the first camel they were scared out of their wits. It was so big! Covered with thick, brown fur with a great hump on its back it looked as if it must be very dangerous. But the camel liked the people it met, and tried to be as helpful as possible. It would sink down on its knees and let children play on its back. After a while, men lost their fear and realized the camel was a gentle animal that could help them carry heavy loads for long distances without demanding big rewards. But instead of being grateful, men began to treat camels badly because they were no longer afraid of them.