A ventriloquist who retired from show business decided to try the rural
life, so he went to inspect a farm that was for sale.  The farmer was
taking him around, and the ventriloquist, who loved practical jokes,
couldn't resist playing a little prank.  As they walked through the
barnyard, a cow standing by the fence suddenly spoke - or seemed to.  "Your
hands are awfully cold when you milk me in the morning," the cow said.

The farmer gave the cow a startled look.  then a passing chicken
complained, "I  wish you'd collect the eggs sooner."  The farmer looked
stricken.  The ventriloquist didn't say a word, and they continued walking
on.  As they approached some sheep, the farmer said, "Don't believe
anything these sheep say.  They're terrible liars."