FAB. I.

The Monkey, the Cat, and the Chesnuts.

A Monkey observing his Master to lay some Chesnuts in the Fire to roast, he was very desirous to tast some of them, but yet was likewise much afraid to burn his Fingers, so that though he often attempted to rake them out, yet he was as often discouraged by the heat of the Fire; Whereupon he was a long time contriving with himself how to attain his end; At length he perceives a young Kitling lye sleeping by the Fire, whereupon he pre­sently resolves that Puss shall be his instrument to gain his purpose; And catching her up in [Page 2] his arms, notwithstanding her squalling, and all the resistance she could make, yet Pug be­ing stronger takes her fore-foot in his hand, and thrusting it into the Fire gets out the Chesnuts, which he with much greediness soon eats up; The poor Cat had her foot miserably burnt, and asks him weeping why he would use her so cruelly without any provocation given him; The Monkey knew he had wronged her, and could say little in his own vindication, yet willing to make a lame defence rather than none, impudently replies. I must confess the jest was somewhat severe, but yet it is not so much as you justly deserve to suffer, consider­ing the wicked, slothful and sleepy life that you lead.

FAB. I. The Monkey, the Cat, and the Chesnuts.

FAB II.

The Mouse and the Oyster.

A Mouse had dwelt many years in an an­cient Mansion house by the Sea-side, and enjoyed plenty of all things without dan­ger or fear, feeding daily upon Bacon, Cheese, and crums of Bread which fell from the Masters plentiful Table; But not knowing her own felicity she grew wanton, and having heard that there were dainty bits to be found in other places, she began to disdain her course fare, and longed to taste of those choice rarities, and pleasant viands, thinking her self to be very foolish that she had lived so long upon such [Page 6] homely food, and did not yet understand true eating; She therefore resolves to travel with the first opportunity, and search about till she met with some new Ragoust, to indulge her appetite therewith; Whereupon the next day she marches toward the Sea-side, and upon her arrival finds a great quantity of Oysters lying upon the shoar, and among the rest one of them gaping to take in the Salt water; the Mouse peeps into the shell, and seeing the Oyster, pleased herself very much to think of her good fortune, and what a delicate morsel she had got, and then eagerly thrusts in her head to seize her prey; She no sooner toucht the Oyster, but the shell immediately closed with such force, that catching the Mouse by the neck it gave her a mortal squeeze; Who finding death approaching, cryed out; Let all Belly-Gods take warning by me, who if I could have been contented with my own safe condi­tion, might have lived many years longer, but am come to an untimely end meerly to gratify my foolish taste.

FAB. II. The Mouse and the Oyster.

FAB. III.

The Fox and the Lion.

A Fox being very sick, shut himself close up into his hole; The other Beasts missing him in his usual haunts, come to visit him, and inquire of his health; Among the rest the Lion, the King of Beasts repairs to him, pre­tending to have much care of him, and great trouble for the pain he endured: Yet quoth he, Dear brother be not discouraged, nor dis­heartned, for if you will take my advice, I doubt not but in a few days to make you as whole as a Fish, for I have an Infallible remedy, which I obtained in my travels from the chief Physi­cian [Page 10] of the King of Utopia, that never yet fail­ed in any disease whatsoever, I cure all though spoiled, abused and left off by others, so that mine may be called the Universal Medicine and the true secret of the Philosophers, and no di­stemper can stand before it; Thus the Lion like a right M untebank boasted of his mighty skill in Physick; The Fox humbly intreats his Highness to impart his help to him; With all my heart, quoth the Lion, let me but come into your hole, & you shall soon find that your cure will be speedy, safe and pleasant, for if I only lick your body all over, there is such soveraign virtue in my Tongue, that all diseases fly be­fore it. I humbly thank your Highness quoth the Fox, neither do I at all question the excel­lent quality that is in your Grace Tongue, on­ly one thing much discourages me, that your Teeth, which are so near Neighbours to it, ap­pear so terrible as it will rather increase than abate my malady; And if your Grace please but to remove that inconvenience, I shall be very ready to use your admirable Remedy; The Lion finding himself discovered went away much discontented.

FAB. III. The Fox and the Lion.

FAB. IV.

The Ants and the Grashopper.

THE industrious Ants had wisely provi­ded and laid up store of Provender in the Summer, whereby to maintain themselves in Winter; but toward Autumn violent Rains happening, their Provisions were almost spoiled with the wet, but a Sun-shiny day coming soon after, every one of these little Animals with a Grain of Corn in its Mouth crept out of their dark Cell, and laid it upon a Bank to dry, thereby to prevent its being mouldy and spoil­ed; while they were thus profitably imployed, a Grashopper almost starved with hunger and [Page 14] cold, having observed what they were doing, comes toward them, and humbly beseeches them to give him some relief, or else he should unavoidably die in a short time with Famine; One of the most ancient Ants, hearing him make this lamentable complaint, asks him, how he spent his time in the Summer, that he had laid up nothing before hand, whereby he was already reduced to such miserable necessity even before the Winter was well begun; Truely quoth he, I play'd away the Summer, and sung Tunes to all that walked in the Fields; At which the Ant laughing aloud, cryed out, Nay then you justly suffer need, and deserve little Charity, and therefore I would advise you that as you have sung away your Harvest time, so you would dance away the Winter, for which by the slenderness of your Diet your Body will be very well prepared.

FAB. IV. The Ants and the Grashopper.

FAB. V.

The Kid and the Wolf.

A Wanton Kid wandring carelesly away from her Mother, into the adjoining Woods, happened to meet with a terrible Wolf, who being very hungry was walking his rounds to search for his prey; The Kid was much astonished and surprized at the sight of him, expecting nothing but present death, and saw no possibility of escaping; But at length recollecting her Spirits, she resolved if possible to deceive the Wolf, and coming up briskly to him, Sir, quoth she, I acknowledge I am your Prisoner, and do not doubt but you intend to make a meal of my body, I only beg [Page 18] one kindness of you; What's that, says the Wolf, tell me quickly for my Stomach is up, and I cannot spare time to talk; Only, quoth the Kid, that you will please to let me have but one dance before I dye, and that you would assist me therein with your voice, who I hear have excellent skill in Singing; Well, says the Wolf, if that be all I will do it, though I never heard my voice commended before; but pray be brief then and dispatch instantly; The Kid stands up on her hind legs, and dances, the Wolf sings or howls, whereat the Kid re­doubles her dancing; At which the Wolf is so pleased that he strains his voice louder, so that he might be heard a long way; And so he was for the Dogs in the village hard by hearing and knowing his cry, they come with all speed to seek and pursue their Enemy, whom they seiz­ed unawares, while he was performing his part; The Wolf finding how soon the case was al­tered, and that he must be sacrificed to the fury of the Dogs; Well says he, this is nothing but what I deserve, who having been born and bred a Cook and a Butcher, must needs pretend to be a singing Master.

FAB. V. The Kid and the Wolf.

FAB. VI.

The Sheep and the Dog.

WHen Sheep could speak, one of them came to his Master, and desired to ask him one civil question, wherein he would wil­lingly be satisfied; I observe quoth he, that not­withstanding you receive so many and so great advantages by us Sheep both living and dead, who furnish you with Wool, Lambs, Milk, and at length with Mutton, yet you take no care to make provision for our eating, so that we are forced to wander up and down the Fields eve­ry day, and are often put to very hard shifts to get food; whereas your idle lazy Dog who af­fords [Page 22] you none of these benefits, is fed daily from your own Table with Varieties, and without taking any pains or care; The Dog being pre­sent, and hearing the Sheep scandalize him at this rate, began to swell with anger, his Eyes grew red, his Hair stood an end, and his rage was so great that he could hold no longer, but in a mighty fury replies; Thou silly Hen-hearted Creature, how ridiculously dost thou argue, and what a sensless grievance dost thou complain of for want of wit rightly to understand the mat­ter? Thou chargest us Dogs with idleness, as if we did not deserve our Bread, whereas if thy pastures were never so plentiful, and thy food never so easie to attain, yet thy cowardly Spirit would never suffer thee to eat it quietly, if we were not continually watchful and ready to de­fend you against ravening Wolves that would tear you to pieces, and from Thieves likewise who would steal and kill you at their pleasure; But this it is to do good turns to ungrateful Wretches, who can neither protect themselves, nor will acknowledge the kindness of those without whose assistance they would certainly be destroyed.

FAB. VI. The Sheep and the Dog.

FAB. VII.

The Parrot and the Cat.

A Gentleman going through the Market heard a Parrot prating and singing ve­ry loud, with whom he was so much taken, that demanding the price, he at length agreed, and buying it sent it home to his house, order­ing it to be hung up in the midst of his Hall in a Cage; Poll to whom all places were alike, was no sooner come, but he began to prattle and talk as loud as before; A Cat that belonged to the House, hearing this strange and unusual noise was wonderfully amazed, and could not ima­gine from whence it should come; At length [Page 26] happening to look up, she saw a Bird in a Cage, and perceived the voice to proceed from thence; Hey, quoth Puss, pray whence came you, what's your name, and what business have you here? The Parrot replied, I came from a very far Country, my name is Parrot, and I am of a worthy Family, whose Livery is Green and Red, and happening to be taken cap­tive I was put into this Iron Grate to be sold, and was just now bought by your Master in the Market. Methinks, says the Cat, that being so lately come hither you should not have the confidence to make such a bawling as you do; I am sure had I caus'd but half this disturbance, I had been in danger to have my brains beat out, for though I was born and bred in this House, yet if I do but cry, and beg for a little victuals, my Master, Mistris and all the Fami­ly are ready to kill me; Why, quoth Poll, sure Mistress Puss you will not compare my singing and prating wherewith Persons of the best qua­lity are delighted, to your squalling which is so odious and ungrateful to the ears of all that hear it.

FAB. VII. The Parrot and the Cat.

FAB. VIII. The Fox going to Execution.

AN old Fox who had spent his whole life in Theft and Rapine, was accused by the Hens, Geese, Ducks, and Turkeys, of committing many Robberies and Murthers, upon their Wives, Children, Brothers, Sisters, and other Relations, who all Petitioned the Lion their King that he might be brought to a Legal Tryal for the crimes he had committed, and receive condign punishment for the same; The Lion granted their request, and gave Serjeant Puss a Warrant to Seize & Arrest Reynard in the Kings Name; and to commit him to Prison without Bayl, till he should be delivered by due course of Law; The Cat in pursuance of his Commission, goes with other Officers to the Foxes hole in the For­rest, where they take him, and tying his hands [Page 30] behind him carry him to the common Jayl; From whence soon after he was brought before the Lion and the rest who sate in Judgment upon him; The Witnesses proved the matter a­gainst him very fully, so that he could say little in his own defence, only with Lies and Equivo­cations denied, and extenuated his faults, but in conclusion the Lion was fully satisfied of his guilt, telling him, Certainly you are one of the most notorious Rascals that ever lived in the Forrest, and a greater Malefactor than the Gol­den Farmer, and for your many Villanies and Murthers deserve like him to be hanged in Chains, but the Court is so kind that you shall only be hanged, and this is your Sentence; what have you to say why it should not be put in Exe­cution? I will say nothing quoth the Fox, against your Justice, only I desire one favour, that I may not be carried to the Gallows through the high Street, but on the back side of the Town; This the Lion thought was some subtle trick of his, and asked him his reason; Because, quoth he, I know there are great store of Hens and other Fowl that way, whose sight and pleasant cackling, will much comfort me in that sad hour, when I think how many pleasant Meals I have made of the Flesh of some of their Relations.

FAB. VIII. The Fox going to Execution.

FAB. IX.

The young Mouse, the Cock, and the Cat.

A young Mouse and an only Son, had been so carefully bred up by his Mother, that she would never permit him to go beyond the mouth of her hole. But growing up, the young creature had a desire to look about into the World, which his Mother was very fearful he should do; Alas Child, says, she there is so much treachery abroad, that if you once go out of my sight I never expect to see you again; Dear Mo­ther quoth he, fear nothing, I will only go and look through the crevice of the door, and come back instantly; His importunity prevailed, and so he goes into the next Room and peeps into [Page 34] the Yard, where he saw a Cat walk very de­murely by the door, who laid her self down in the warm Sun; the young Mouse much won­dred at her gravity, & was extreamly taken with her shape and sober carriage; Soon after a Cock comes by very briskly, who clapping his wings set up a loud crow, whereat our young Travel­ler was so affrighted that all pale and trembling, he runs back to his Mother, who glad of his re­turn hugg'd him very tenderly, demanding the cause of his great surprize and fright; Ah Mo­ther quoth he, I saw a dreadful Creature with a red piece of Flesh on his Head like a Crown, and the like under his Chin, and Horns on his Heels, who with things like Arms beating his sides, made such a horrible noise as almost sca­red me out of my wits; Just when I was admi­ring a very fine Creature, of so modest a look, and so cleanly and neat, lying in the Sun, that I could hardly forbear running to kiss and hug her; the old Mouse perceiving his mistake; My Dear says she, that proud strutting thing will never hurt thee, but be sure to avoid the other modest one, who will certainly be the death of thee with the first opportunity.

FAB. IX. The young Mouse, the Cat, and the Cock.

FAB. X.

The Horse and the Wolf.

A Wolf in his Rambles happened to come to a place where he found a large heap of Corn, which when he had throughly viewed, well, says he, I am very hungry, but yet this dry Victuals will never go down with me; Oh that I had but a Lamb or a Kid now in exchange for it! what a hearty meal could I make; yet now I consider of it, since I cannot eat it my self, I think I were best make a Friend with it, and assure him, it is not but that I like it very well, only out of great kindness and respect I present it to him; Then going on he at length meets with a Horse: Well met, my Friend, quoth the [Page 38] Wolf, you may reckon it a happy minute that you have so luckily encountred me, for I was just going to seek you, to make you as gallant a [...] Entertainment as ever you had in your life Come, come along with me, and I will shew yo [...] such a heap of dainty Corn as shall make you Mouth water again, and where you may ea [...] your Belly full at free cost; The Horse went a long with him, and coming to the place; Her [...] says the Wolf, see what dainty cheer I have pro­vided for you, fall to heartily, and spare not you are welcom to it, and I assure you, I spare [...] it out of my own Belly on purpose to fill yours. The Horse falls greedily to his meat; Wel [...] quoth the Wolf, methinks you make such a pret­ty noise with crumping the Corn in your Teeth that I am mighty glad I had this Banquet for you; The Horse says little till he had done, but then replies; Brother I give you many thanks for this good meal, but yet I am of the Opinion that if Wolves could eat Corn, I should hardly have made such a plentiful Dinner, and I believe you would have preferr'd the pleasure of your stomach in eating, before that of your ears in hearing my grinders crump the Corn.

FAB. X. The Horse and the Wolf.

FAB. XI.

The Huntsman and the Bear.

A Huntsman whose usual Imployment it was to chase and kill wild Beasts, comes to a Tanner, and asks him whether he would buy a large Bears Skin of him; Yes quoth the Tanner if it be worth buying, pray let me see it; Nay says the Huntsman, I have it not by me; but I would willingly know what you will give when I bring it; Sure quoth the Tanner, you would not have me buy a Pig in a Bag, for so I may be cheated as the Man was, who when he came to look in his Sack found a Puppy Dog therein in­stead of a Sucking Pig which he thought he had purchased; To tell you the truth says the Huntsman, there is a great Bear in the Woods [Page 42] hard by, and to Morrow Morning I intend to go and find him out, and when I have killed him, I will strip off his Skin and bring it you; Well, says the Tanner, when this is done I will give you the full value, and I care not if I go with you to see the Sport; Next Morning the Hunts­man and the Tanner went toward the Wood, and coming near, the Tanner gets up into a Tree to be out of danger; The Huntsman goes on couragiously with his Dogs, and rouzes the Bear out of his Den, who comes with mighty fury toward him, the Hunter makes up to him with his Sword, but missing his stroke he falls upon the ground, and was not able to recover himself, so that the Bear was just ready to tear him in pieces; But he knowing that Bears never prey upon the dead, holds his Breath, so that the Beast smelling about his Mouth and Ears, and finding no life, went away, leaving him in a ter­rible fright, but the Tanner seeing the danger past, coming down calls to him, and bids him rise, and then asks what the Bear whispered in his Ear; Why, quoth he, he advised me that hereafter I should never venture to sell the Bears Skin till I had killed the Bear.

FAB. XI. The Huntsman and the Bear.

FAB. XII.

The Bird and the Apes.

A Company of Apes in a cold Winters night were got under a Tree, consulting how to make a Fire to warm themselves; at length one happened to spy a Gloworm lying under an Hedge, and with great joy calls out to his Companions that he had found a Coal of Fire, they all run to see it, and concluding it to be so, they instantly gather a number of small sticks, to lay upon it, and then take a great deal of pains in puffing and blowing to cause it to burn into a Flame; a Bird that sate upon a Tree over against them, and had ear­nestly observed all their actions, perceiving their fruitless toil and labour, calls to them and [Page 46] tells them that what they were doing was to no purpose, and that they took pains for no­thing, seeing it was not a Spark of Fire as they imagined, but only a Gloworm which they made such a stir about; but they were so busi­ly imploy'd that they regarded not her admo­nitions; therefore out of her double diligence, thinking they did not hear her, she flies from the Tree, and sits down by them; crying, Pray, Gentlemen, hear reason, you trouble your selves in vain, I am asham'd to see your ridi­culous Folly; an Ape discreeter than the rest, and who laugh'd at their actions, seeing the mighty care and concernment of the Bird, comes to her and admonishes her, that she should be cautious, not to indanger her own life, while she was over sollicitous about their af­fairs, but she would take no warning, persist­ing in counselling and advising them so long, till a sly Ape approaching near, suddenly leaps upon her, and catching her in his hand, tears her instantly to pieces, and eats her up, where­by she found too late her own Folly in giving Instructions to those who had not the sense to receive it.

FAB. XII. The Bird and the Apes.

FAB. XIII.

Jupiter and the Creatures.

THE Poets relate, that Jupiter hearing some Creatures were discontented with their own shapes, he summoned them before him, freely to declare what defects they thought were in their Bodies, and they should be instantly re­medied; and the Ape being next him, says Jupi­ter, pray observe the Beauty of your Fellow Creatures, and compare them with your own, and then tell me what you would have amend­ed, and it shall be done. Sir, quoth the Ape, I am well pleased both with the Elegancy of my Shape and Wit, but said be, here is my Brother Bear cannot much boast of his admirable Figure, I am sure should he see his Picture he would [Page 50] scarce be in love with it. For my part, quoth the Bear, I envy not the handsomness of any other Beast, being satisfied with my own. But I think it would be well if the Elephant had some ad­dition to his Tail, and his Shape were made more comely; The Elephant was very angry at this Character, not desiring to have any alte­ration, but says he, I really pity the Whale who is so bulky that he can hardly manage himself; The Whale protested in a rage, that he liked his bulk very well, and would by no means be less. But I must confess quoth he, I very much pity the little Ant, who takes such extraordi­nary pains, and is continually labouring for its Meat, and yet his strength does not seem agreeable to his Wit and Industry; you might have spared your Remarks upon me, Don Ele­phanto, quoth the Ant, since I have strength and ability sufficient for my Imployment, nei­ther am I so very small but if compared to a Mite, I appear like a Giant. Jupiter having pleasantly censured them for the good Opinion every one had of himself, and yet could espy defects in other Creatures, dismist their further attendance.

FAB. XIII. Jupiter and the Creatures.

FAB. XIV.

The Wolf turned Shepherd.

A Wolf that was grown old and feeble, and so unable to pursue and take his prey as in his former youthful days, was long contri­ving how to maintain himself in his decrepit Age; at last he found out a subtil invention, whereby he did not in the least doubt but to live as plentifully and happily as ever. To which purpose he seeks out a convenient place near the side of a Forrest, where large flocks of Sheep and other Cattel usually fed. In the next place he gets a Coat and Breeches, fitted to his body, and in all points exactly like a Shepherd, with a Cap on his head; and then walking upon his hind-feet, he carried a Shepherds Crook up­on [Page 54] on his shoulder; and to make himself absolutely compleat, he ties a pair of Bagpipes to his girdle: Being thus throughly accommodated, he goes confidently toward the flocks, and when he ap­proached them, finds the true Shepherd and his Dogs with most of the Cattel sleeping, but yet durst not attempt to seize any of the Sheep for fear of waking the Shepherd and Dogs; and therefore thought upon another stratagem, which was to draw one or two of them toward the side of the Wood, where he might without dan­ger kill and eat them; And to that end he re­solves to counterfeit the Shepherds voice and call, but this utterly ruined the whole project; for instead of whistling, he set up such a loud howling, that the adjoyning Hills ecchoed again with the noise, which likewise soon roused and alarm'd the sleepy Shepherd and his Dogs, who instantly pursue him with full cry; and he being much incommoded and hindred in his flight by his new Accoutrements, they soon run him down, and so he became an easie prey to his Adversaries, who uncasing him of his deceitful Clothing, make a quick dispatch of this Sham Shepherd.

FAB. XIV. The Wolf turned Shepherd.

FAB. XV.

The Impertinent Trifler.

A Poor Man lived at the side of a Forrest, whither he usually went to fetch Wood: But on a time going upon the same account, he found such plenty, that he grew very curious, and one stick did not please him, nor another, but he cry'd, Well, I will go further, and there I shall find better choice; wandring along up­on this foolish account, it happened that a crew of Wolves came howling through the Woods, with the sight of whom he was so dreadfully affrighted, that he ran with all imaginable speed toward a River, where finding neither [Page 58] a Bridge nor a Boat to help him over, he threw himself into the stream to avoid his pursuers; but having little skill in swimming, before he was half way cross, the force of the water car­ried him away with such force, that he sunk to the bottom, and had certainly been drowned, but that some Fishermen near hand observing it, threw their Nets into the place, and took him up in one of them, and carrying him a­shore, as soon as they had dreined the water out of his Body they set him under an old VVall, seeming rather dead than alive, at length by the warmth of the Sun he began to recover his senses, but then instead of going home to refresh himself, he lay there impertinently relating at large to all that passed by the strange Misfor­tunes, and terrible dangers which had befallen him that day, together with all the circum­stances thereof, and how narrowly he had es­caped with his life; Thus he continued his tri­fling discourse a great while, till at length the Wall being crazy, fell down and knockt him on the head, in the ruins whereof he was bu­ried.

FAB. XV. The Impertinent Trifler.

FAB. XVI.

The Hedghog and the Fox.

A Fox going through a River, when he came to the other side it was so steep and slippery that though he often endeavoured to get up, yet still fell back again, so that he was forced to lye in the mud, and to aggravate his misfortune, a great number of stinging Flies fastened upon his Head and Eyes, and put him to very great torment; an Hedghog that stood on the Rivers brink perceiving what a wretch­ed condition he was in, very charitably offered his assistance to drive them away; The Fox gave him many thanks for his kindness, but told him, he thought it would be more convenient to [Page 62] let them continue where they were; The Hedg-hog stood in admiration to hear the Fox give such an answer, who was always thought to be one of the wisest and most discreet Persons that inhabited in the Forrest; Pray, Sir, says he, be pleased to give me a reason, why you would not be glad to be rid of such troublesome guests; Brother, quoth the Fox, since you are desirous to know, I'll tell you, I have considered that these Blood-suckers have been there so long, that their Bellies must by this time of necessity be almost full, but if they should be driven away, a fresh party will immediately succeed them, who I am afraid will come on so eagerly that they will suck out all the remainder of Blood that is left in my Body, and so make an end of me. The Hedg-hog hearing the notable forecast of the Fox approved of his great discretion and so left him.

FAB. XVI. The Hedg-hog and the Fox.

FAB. XVII. The Monkey and the Miser.

AN old Usurer who scarce allowed himself meat or drink, and had heaped up much riches by extortion and oppressing the poor, was so extream miserable that he kept no ser­vants, but only a Mastiff Dog to drive beggars from his door, and a Monkey to make him sport and pastime, who was chained in the Yard be­fore his house; One time the old Gentleman having occasion to go abroad, to receive twen­ty in the Hundred for his money at Interest, left these two faithful stewards to take care of his concerns, but his trusty servant the Monkey by often leaping and jumping about, happened to break his Chain, and finding his heels at liber­ty, skipt and danced for joy, and looking up [Page 66] he saw a Window open; Pug being kept like his Master, with very short commons, resolv­ed to climb up and go in at the Window, to seek for what he could find to appease his crav­ing Stomach; Being entred it happened to be his Masters Closet, where his Soul, and his Gold were hoarded up together; The Monkey soon unties one of the bags, and taking out thence a handful of that yellow mettal, throws it out into the street upon the Stones, where it made a great noise and jingling in the fall; Pug was so well pleased at the musick, that he threw it out with both hands, untill he had quite emp­tied the bag; several Passengers going by, made bold to pick up these golden crumbs, and putting them into their Pockets, went a­way laughing at the conceit to think what this covetous wretch had raked together out of the bowels of the indigent, and without any fear of God or man, should now be so lavishly squan­dred away by a ridiculous Monkey.

FAB. XVII. The Monkey and the Miser.

FAB. XVIII. The Young Lion and the Old.

AN ancient Lion among other good in­structions to his Son, gave him an express charge, that though for his strength he might ingage against any other Creature in the For­rest, yet he should always be very cautious not to fight with a Man, who was so full of sub­tilty and craft, that it would be very difficult to Conquer him; the young Lion heard his Fa­thers discourse, but in process of time finding himself grow bigger and stronger, he was fully resolved to encounter with a Man on the first occasion, since he found no Beast durst stand before him, but trembled and fled at his pre­sence and roaring; passing along he met with a Yoak of Oxen plowing in the Field, and com­ing near them demanded if they were Men; [Page 70] no, say they, but a Man hath put this yoak up­on our necks; going farther, he saw a Horse bridled and sadled, with all accoutrements for a Battle, of whom he demanded, art thou a Man? no, quoth the Horse, but I am subject to a man, and serve him to fight against his Enemies, to which end he put this bridle in my mouth, and a saddle and pistols on my back; proceeding on he observed a Carpenter cleaving a Tree, to whom he hasted, crying out, art thou a Man? yes, says the Carpenter, I am so; quoth the Lion, I am very glad of it, for I have been long seeking one, and must now fight with you; With all my heart, says he, but first pray help me to pull this Tree in pieces, that I will says he, and so with his paw pluckt it open that the Wedge fell out, upon which the Tree closing held his foot fast within it, the man calls out for help to kill the Lion, who seeing his danger with a sudden spring gets out his toes, but leaves his Nails behind, and running home bleeding to his Father; ah, cried he, had I taken your advice I had never come to such damage and pain as I now endure.

FAB. XVIII. The Young Lion and the Old.

FAB. XIX. The Dog, Wolf, and Ass.

A Dog receiving a great affront from a Wolf, resolved on revenge, but though his heart was good, yet thinking he had not sufficient ability, he intended to procure a se­cond, who might assist him in his design, and after he had considered what beast he should ingage to aid him, upon mature deliberation he concluded the Ass to be the fittest, both by rea­son of his great strength, whom he had often seen to carry very heavy burdens, and likewise for his voice which was mighty loud, and as he fancied, like the warlike sound of a Trumpet; to him then he goes, and relates the matter, earnestly requesting him to ingage in his quar­rel, who he was sure must needs be very va­liant and [...] hearing such com­mendations [Page 74] of himself, was not a little elevated, and readily promised to perform his request, say­ing; dear brother Dog, since you have such confidence in my courage, I hope I shall never fail your expectation, for I am resolved to ven­ture my life in your cause, and doubt not of success against your brutish enemy; The Dog was extream joyful at his gallant resolution, and so they both went immediately toward the Wolfs Den, and the Dog called out to him, to give present reparation for the injuries he had offered him, or else prepare to lose his life, for he was resolved with the assistance of his bro­ther Ass to fight him instantly; the Wolf not used to such language comes out with great fu­ry, snarling and grining with his cruel Teeth, at the sight of whom the Ass was so terribly af­frighted, that he ran instantly away, leaving the Dog alone to combate with his inraged enemy, who finding the match unequal soon after fled away likewise, and then recollecting himself; well, quoth he, I find there is no trust either in strength or voice, for both these this dull Ass had, and yet wanted true courage, and shewed him­self as much a coward as the rest of his kindred.

FAB. XIX. The Dog, Wolf, and the Ass.

FAB. XX.

The Old Woman and the Mens Skulls.

AN Old Wan travelling far from her own house, happened to come to a certain place, where several years before, a terrible battle had been fought between two mighty Armies, and a multitude of men slain, and obser­ved a great number of skulls to lye scattered about the Fields; The Woman being very de­vout and superstitious, imagined it to be a work of humanity and charity to have them decently buried; she therefore fills her Apron with many of them, and with much pains and labour, carries them a long way to find a con­venient place for their interment, which before she could discover, she had occasion to go [Page 78] down a very steep hill, where missing her footing, all the Skulls ran out of her lap down the Hill, some one way and some another, at a great distance from each other; After she had recovered her self from her fall, instead of vex­ing at her misfortune; she burst out into a loud laughter, and calling after them; nay, nay, quoth she, I do not at all wonder that every one of you runs a different way, so far from one another, no question it is but just as you did when you were alive, for I believe that you could never agree then, or else you had ne­ver knockt one another on the head; accord­ing to the Old Proverb, so many men so many minds; After the Old Woman had pleased her self for some time with these moral considera­tions, she very contentedly gathered the Skulls up again, and digging a hole in the earth she there buried them together, saying, you were best agree now, for if you should quarrel I shall not come to part you.

FAB. XX. The Old Woman and the Mens Skulls.

FAB. XXI.

The Lion, the Ass, and the Fox.

A Lion marching furiously through the Forrest, as if he would destroy all the Beasts therein, happened to fall into a Pit, from whence he had little hope of freeing himself, and thereupon roars so terribly for help, that his voice made all the Wood tremble: The Ass being nigh, comes to the Pit, to see what had befaln His Soveraign, who earnestly intreat­ed his assistance, by letting him take hold of his Tayl, thereby to save himself, and in requital he solemnly promised upon his Royal word, not on­ly to spare his life, tho' he was never so hungry, but likewise to free him for the future from the [Page 82] slavery he had formerly endured, and that he and his should hereafter enjoy all the Liberties and Priviledges of free-born Subjects. The simple Ass, who had a great reverence for names and Royal promises, seemed very inclinable to believe and aid him, but the Fox coming by at that instant, and being inform'd of the mat­ter; Sure, quoth he, to the Ass, you are not so great a Blockhead to credit the Lions engage­ments in his extremity; can you imagine he will ever change his brutish nature, or will re­gard any obligations made in his necessity? Is it not the great happiness of us all that we may now feed securely in the Forrest, without being indangered either in our Persons or young Ones by the cruel and arbitrary dealings of this barbarous Tyrant? The Ass, tho' of a dull and unthinking temper, yet seemed to open his eyes at the discreet reasoning of the Fox, and so they went both away together, leaving the Lion to shift for himself, and get out as well as he could.

FAB. XXI. The Lyon, the Ass, and the Fox.

FAB. XXII. The Man and the Serpent.

A Great over-grown Serpent striving to pass through a hedge, was catched in a snare which held him so fast by the neck, that he was almost strangled. A man passing by, he begg'd of him to unloose him, or he must in­stantly perish; the man pitying him, said, If thou wilt swear not to poison me either with thy teeth or tayl, nor do me the least hurt, I will release thee; the Serpent swore he would never harm him while he lived; whereupon the man set him free, and they travelled together a great way; at length the Serpent growing hun­gry, endeavoured to kill him; What, quoth he, hast thou so soon forgot thy Oath? No, says the Serpent, but famine which breaks through stone [Page 86] walls forceth me to it, and makes void all vows. Well, says the man, but pray then let me live till the matter be decided by the next honest Pas­senger; content, quoth the Serpent, so they tra­velled on, and met with the Raven and her Son, to whom the Serpent related the matter, who hoping to come in for a snack, presently cryed, The Serpent ought to eat the man: He that is a Robber, and lives by blood, is not a fit Judge, says the man, let us proceed further. Next they meet with the Bear & the Wolf, who expecting a part like the Raven, were of his opinion; here­upon the Serpent spits at him to destroy him, saying, I have had Judgment twice against thee, Ay, says the man, by murderers themselves; let us expect better Arbitrators. Soon after they met with the Fox, to whom they likewise ap­peal'd; I cannot well decide it, says the Fox, unless you let the man fasten you as you were when he released you: The Serpent suffered himself to be tyed fast; Now, says he to the man, if you will again untie him you may; no, quoth the man, there let him lie and die like an ungrateful wretch as he is, and so went away laughing at the Serpents folly.

FAB. XXII. The Man and the Serpent.

FAB. XXIII. The Wolf and Mare.

THE Fox and the Wolf travelling together, they met with a Mare which had a Fole by her side, that was very fat and smooth; the Wolf was almost famisht with hunger, and de­sired his Cousin Reynard to go and ask the Mare what she would have for her Colt; truly, saith the Mare, I am in great want of money, and would willingly sell him; and what do you value him at, quoth the Fox? why Brother, says she, the price is written in my hinder foot, and if you please you may read it; Excuse me Brother, cryes the Fox, for I cannot read, neither do I desire to buy your Fole for my self, but am only sent as a Messenger from the Wolf, who has a [Page 90] great mind to him; Well, said the Mare, let him come himself, and no question but we shall bar­gain: The Fox went to the Wolf, and carried this answer, asking him if he could read written hand; Read, quoth he, Do you doubt it? let me tell thee, Cousin, I can read both Latine, French, Dutch and English; I have studied at the Uni­versity, and disputed with several Doctors; I have seen many famous Plays, and heard di­vers Tryals in Courts of Judicature; I have ta­ken my Degrees in the Laws, and there is no writing but I can readily understand; Well, come along then, quoth the Fox, and read the value of the Colt in the Mares foot behind: Away he goes, and desires to read the price, she lifts up her hinder foot, which had a strong Iron Shoe newly put on, with many sharp-headed Nails; and while the Wolf was earnest to see the wri­ting, she struck him so full in the forehead, that he fell over and over, and lay a long while for dead, all bloody and sorely wounded, while the Mare went trotting away with her Colt, and laughing at his folly and stupidity. At length recovering, Cousin Reynard, quoth he, what a Roguish trick has the Jade served me? for thinking the Nails had been Letters, while I was reading them, she hi [...] me so strongly on the face, that I am afraid my skull i [...] broken. Alas Cousin, quoth the Fox, I find the Proverb true in you, That the greatest Scholars are not the wisest me [...]

FAB. XXIII. The Wolf and Mare.

FAB. XXIV. The Nightingale and Wolf.

A Wolf being almost famisht with hunger travelled many Miles, and could find no' booty, at length, as he passed through a Wood he heard a Nightingale sing very loudly and harmoniously: The Wolf was mighty glad of the adventure, concluding with himself that this must needs be some large Fowl, and that he ought to spare for no pains nor labour to obtain her, since he did not question but the purchase of such a delicate Banquet would suf­ficiently recompense all the care and trouble he could be at in getting her. Pursuant to this resolution he follows the pretty Bird by her [Page 94] voice, since by the thickness of the leaves he he could not see her. Thus with unwearied di­ligence he continued many days hearkening to the melodious strains of poor innocent Philo­mel, as she flew from tree to tree, and from bush to bush, little suspecting the treachery that was designed against her. At length by his constant and continual watchfulness, the Wolf takes an opportunity to surprize and seize the unfortu­nate Nightingale e're she was aware: But when he had got her, he was more surprized than she: Sure, quoth he, my eyes are not my own; cer­tainly it is impossible that so small an Animal as thou art shouldst make so great a noise, who art nothing but tail and feather; I did expect that thou hadst been as big as a wild Goose or a wild Duck at least, and reckoned upon it to have made a hearty meal of thee; but alas, how strangely am I disappointed, and what a slender requital shall I have, for the watching and fast­ing which I have patiently endured so many days in pursuit of thee, when instead of a belly­full, I find thou wilt only be a mouth-full, and therefore utterly uncapable to satisfie my hungry appetite?

FAB. XXIV. The Nightingale and the Wolf.

FAB. XXV. The Deer and Hound.

A Deer inhabiting in a large Forrest, had one time the fortune to see a couple of Hounds coursing a Hare over a great field; but being eager in their pursuit, one of the Dogs leaping very eagerly over a hedge, broke his Leg, whereby poor Wat made his escape, because the other without his fellows assistance was not able to seize her: The Stag having observed all from her shelter where she was safe, ventured out, seeming much concerned that the Hound who had shewed so much briskness in the Chase, should perish for want of help, and therefore much pitying his condition, she offered to car­ry him to the next Village, and accordingly [Page 98] took him upon her back, in order to convey him to the Town adjoyning: In the way the Deer was discoursing how happy he and his fellows should be if the Hounds would not ma­liciously follow them by the scent to destroy them, and how unreasonable it was for them to make war upon those who ne're offered them the least injury, nor gave them any occasion for that severe treatment which they received from them, while this communication lasted, they were overtaken by a Fox, who having over­heard what they had been talking of, came up to the Stag, and said, Sir, by your discourse you seem to be a sensible Creature, and have rightly argued against the injustice of the Hounds, and yet directly contrary hereunto, you now carry one of the greatest Enemies you have upon your back, who is at open hostility with you and all your Race; and if your life were in his power, as his is in yours, I dare as­sure you, he would shew you no mercy: The Stag was a little concern'd at this reasoning of the Fox, and began to think of throwing him off his back, but recollecting himself; Well, quoth he, tho' what you say may be true, and he should be so un­grateful, yet since I have given him my word to assist him, I am resolved to leave him in a place of security.

FAB. XXV. The Deer and Hound.

FAB XXVI. The Wolf and Apes.

A Wolf in the midst of Winter was ready to die for want, but happening to meet with a Fox, whom he observed to be fat and in good case, he asked him how he came to live so well in that hard season: The Fox shewed him where the Ape & her young lay in the Den, say­ing, If it had not been for that charitable crea­ture, I should have wanted as much as you, but there I have often been invited, and found kind entertainment, witness the fragments of my Sup­per last night, and therewith gave the Wolf some remains of his meat, which he eat up with much greediness, desiring the Fox to tell him how he might get into favour with the Ape; [Page 102] That is not very difficult, quoth he, it is only by framing your self to flattery and lying: If that be all, quoth the Wolf, I can soon practise it, and thereupon runs with all speed to the Den, but was no sooner in e're he cryed out, Ah fough! what a nasty filthy stink is here? and then seeing the Old Ape hugging her deformed young ones; Surely, quoth he, in my whole life I never saw such ugly creatures as these are; whereat the Apes being inraged, they all fell upon him to­gether, one biting him by the Nose, another by the Neck, and the rest in other places, so that he was forced to run out with all speed to save his life; and finding the Fox, related his mis­fortune to him; You are well enough served, quoth he, since you forgot my counsel, and spoke truth when you should have told lyes: Why, do you think I had lost my smelling and eye-sight? and yet I told the Ape that her house was perfumed with sweet Wood, and that I was mightily pleased to see such a beautiful Lady have such a fine off-spring of young ones to keep up the family; upon which the best in the house was set before me, but during Supper I was very careful not to speak a word of truth, and hereby I was treated so gallantly; or else might have starved as you are like to do, e're you have any relief from her.

FAB. XXVI. The Wolf and the Apes.

FAB. XXVII.

The Dog and Moon.

A Surly ill natured Dog, in a Moon-shiny night bark't and bawl'd incessantly at the Moon, to the great disturbance and vexa­tion of the Neighbourhood, who hearing him make such a violent noise, came out of their Houses to see what the matter was, and perceiv­ing the ridiculous occasion thereof, one of the men coming up and calling to him, what an insipid and senseless Cur art thou, quoth he, to spend thy Lungs and thy labour in such an un­profitable imployment? for if thou shouldst tear [Page 106] thy heart out with yelping, yet the Moon is so far above thy rage or malice, being placed in so high an Orb, and at such a vast distance from thee, that she will still continue her course and cannot receive the least interruption or dis­quiet by thy foolish and filthy howling; but all this good counsel was utterly thrown away upon this inconsiderate Whelp, who still con­tinued his ungrateful barking; so that at length he became such a nusance to the people, as they all unanimously concluded he deserved to be hanged, and accordingly catching him, they resolved to silence his noise, lest his example should incourage other Curs to join in the con­sort, and so make a universal distraction; ac­cordingly this just Sentence was executed upon him, and so this silly animal lost his life in pro­jecting to perform improbable as well as im­possible attempts.

FAB. XXVII. The Dog and Moon.

FAB. XXVIII. The Bear and Fox.

THere happened a quarrel between the Bear and the Fox; but being seemingly reconci­led, the Bear one day meeting the Fox, cryed, Cousin, how do you? are you in health? Truly, quoth the Fox, not very well, for I am afraid I got a surfeit lately by feeding on meat I do not usually eat: Pray what might that be, quoth the Bear? That, quoth the Fox, which some Great ones count a dainty, but I had rather taste a limb of a Hen. In short Uncle, it was Honey-combs whereof I eat so freely, that I have been ill ever since; Honey-combs, quoth the Bear! sure 'tis the best victuals upon Earth: Nephew, I hope you don't slight Honey; if you could [Page 110] help me to some, you would for ever oblige me: Sure you do but jest, quoth the Fox; No, says he, I am serious, give me but my belly full of Honey, and command me as you please: Well Uncle, says the Fox, I'le soon carry you where there is enough to serve you seven years: The Bear was even ravisht for joy, and instantly they went together toward a place where there was a large old Tree, wherein a Carpenter had drove two wedges in order to cleave it; Rey­nard resolving on revenge for former affronts, cryed out, Look there Uncle, get but into that cleft, and you will find Honey enough, but pray don't over-eat your self: I warrant you, quoth the Bear, I'le take care, and so with much haste entred the Tree with his two feet forward, thrusting his head into the cleft quite over his ears; which the Fox observing, instantly ran and pluckt out the wedges, so that he lockt the Bear fast therein; who unable to free himself, made so much noise and houling, that the Car­penter coming out, and finding such a prize, called all his Neighbours to kill the Bear; who perceiving his danger, with much strugling got out his head, but left the skin of his ears and claws behind him, and so ran bleeding away, being laught at by the Fox for trusting to the friendship of a reconciled Enemy.

FAB. XXVIII. The Bear and Fox.

FAB. XXIX. The Dolphin and Ape.

A Ship Sailing from Athens full of Passen­gers, was bound to some other Port in the Mediterranean Sea, but a storm arising the Wind blew so very hard that the Ship was dri­ven against a Rock with such violence as she seemed to be split into a thousand peices; howe­ver the leak was not so great, but the People had time to shift for themselves, and the ship break­ing in a little time, some endeavoured to save themselves upon the Mast, others upon the broken Ribs, and other pieces of the Vessel; among the rest an Ape which was in the compa­ny, got upon a board and swom along till he was met by a Dolphin, which Fish being ge­nerally [Page 114] thought to have a natural love and af­fection for mankind, seeing the Ape in this posture, and supposing him to be some little man who had made his escape out of the Ship­wrack, he swims toward him, and the Ape glad of his assistance, leaps upon his back; the Dolphin then made toward the Shoar to land his Passenger, and in the way, falling into dis­course with the Ape, inquired what countrey­man he was; I am a Gentleman of Athens quoth he, descended from one of the most ho­nourable Families in that Countrey; then you know Pireus very well, says the Dolphin, which was the name of the chief Port or Haven be­longing to the City; but the Ape mistaking it for a Gentlemans name; know him, quoth he ay, very well, he is my first Cozen on the mothers side, and a person of great worth and quality, with whom I am very intimately acquainted: I find Sirrah, says the Dolphin, that you are a ve­ry impudent lying rascal, and fitter to be drown­ed than saved, being sorry I have already taken so much pains to preserve you; but to rid the World of such a Villain, I will instant­ly dispatch you, and therewith sinking to the bottom carried poor Pug down with him, who there left his life and his lying together.

FAB. XXIX. The Dolphin and Ape.

FAB. XXX. The Magpies, Vulture and Eagle.

THE Birds being destitute of a King, they at length concluded to advance the Vulture to the Throne, though they were not insensible of his fierce and cruel temper: But the Solemn Oaths and Promi­ses he made that every Bird should enjoy his own Nest, as before, without the least disturbance, prevailed so much upon the Falcons, Herns, Storks, and other high flying Birds, but especially with the Magpies, that they admitted him to the Government: He was no sooner setled, but he made it apparent how quickly he had forgot his Obligations; and by the Advice of the Ra­vens he drove divers of the Storks and Magpies from their antient Nests, and bestowed them upon the Ra­vens: This so incensed them, that they resolved to call the Eagle to their assistance, who no sooner ap­peared, but the Vulture being sensible of the injuries he had offered them, fled in great fear to a thick Wood ad­joyning, and sheltred himself in the Dragons Den, and [Page 118] the Eagle was made King with the general consent and applause of the Fowls and Birds, and governed the feather'd Nation with great Justice and Valour. After a while some few Storks, Magpies, Buzzards, Owls and Batts grew discontented, pretending that they could not build their Nests so high as they desired, for they now expected to lodge themselves in the Cedar Trees, and not in such shrubs as they formerly were used to: Hereupon they secretly assemble a number of Birds, de­claring their grievances, and that nothing would relieve them but to recall the Vulture again, and depose the Eagle: One of the Magpies then stood up and demand­ed what security the Vulture could give that he would not treat them as bad, if not worse than he did before, if ever he should return again: For, quoth he, The Vulture hath already forfeited his honour and word to us, and what hath he now left, especially since his con­verse with the Dragon, who is the declared Enemy of all the feather'd Race, and according to the nature of that venomous Serpent, resolves to burn and destroy all before him? These reasons convinced the genera­lity of the Birds, only three or four Storks, Magpies Buzzards, Owls and Batts, upon the discovery of their ill designs fled to the Vulture; of which the Eagle having notice, and perceiving their fickle and perfidious humour, he proclaimed them and their Ad­herents Enemies to the whole Society; and thereby defeated their foolish and ridiculous Attempts, expo­sing them as the most sensless and ungrateful of all the Fowls of the Air.

FAB. XXX. The Magpies, Vulture and Eagle.

FAB. XXXI. The Mock Astrologer.

A Pretended Astrologer that wanted nei­ther ignorance nor impudence, and boast­ed to read the fate and fortune of all Princes, States, and Persons in the Book of the Stars, yet gained so little reputation for his Skill in that sublime Science, that had he not published his Mountebank Bills, and fixt them upon every Post, he would never have been heard of, nor found out: But his Lying Libels of resolving all manner of Questions, past, present, and to come, drew in some silly creatures of both Sexes, whereby he sometimes cheated them of a shilling, by promising to tell them by his Art, whether one absent be dead or alive; whether they shall be Rich or Poor; whether a person [Page 122] shall live long or not; if one shall have Chil­dren; if they should marry rich; if a Damsel be a Maid; if a Woman be chast; if it be good to take Physick; if the sick party shall die; if it be a good time to marry; if a Ship shall come home safe; whether a Marriage promise shall be performed; if the Thief shall be taken, and twenty other idle and impertinent stories. At length when the money came in by this canting knavery, the fellow began to have a good conceit of himself, and there happening a great Eclipse of the Moon one night, he in­vited a number of people into the Fields, pretending he would discover to them the De­stinies of all the Potentates in the World pro­ceeding from the Effects of this notable E­clipse; but while he was very earnestly obser­ving the Moon and Stars through his Tele­scopes and other Instruments, he happened to fall into a deep Pit full of water, where not being relieved in time, he miserably perisht; whereat the people could not forbear laughing, to think that he who boasted to have the knowledge of the good or ill fortune of others, should yet be ignorant of his own wretched fate, like his old Friend Will. Lilly, who could foretell what would befal others, and yet did not know who perfum'd his own Door.

FAB. XXXI. The Mock Astrologer.

FAB. XXXII.

The Captain and Puppies.

A Countrey Captain, who had more money than wit, and more honour than cou­rage, having divers Sons, it happened that a Bitch in the house brought forth several Pup­pies, and the Captain equally distributing to every one a Whelp; it seems, the Eldest Son would have his call'd Captain; the Boys being ambitious of their Fathers Title, began to quar­rel, each alledging that his Puppy should be the Captain: This Controversie at length grew so high, that the Lads were ready to fight with one another; so that the Father was forc't to [Page 126] come and quiet them; and understanding the occasion of the disturbance; You are a compa­ny of idle Boys, quoth he, to vex one another about so ridiculous a matter as this is: Well, I'le soon end this business; and for preventing any difference for the future, I am resolved that henceforth every one of the Puppies shall be a Captain, so that you shall never have occasion to teize one another hereafter: The Boys were very well satisfied with this discreet determination of the Father, since hereby eve­ry Lad had a Captain and a Puppy of his own both at once.

FAB. XXXII. The Captain and Puppies.

FAB. XXXIII. The Flea and Gout.

THE Gout and the Flea travelling toge­ther, ther, came to a Town, where it was concluded between them, that the Gout should go and lodge in a Poor man's house, and the Flea in a Noble-man's Pallace, and the next morning they were to meet again, and give an account how they liked their entertainment: accordingly the Gout went and seized upon the Poor man's Toe, expecting to rest quietly there, but to his astonishment, the man started started up, ran about with his naked feet, and plunged himself into a Pond, and had almost choaked or drowned the Gout; and the Flea fastening upon the Noble-man's arm, thinking [Page 130] he had been fast asleep, who soon awaked, and calling for a Candle, ordered his Servants to search diligently for the villanous Flea that had bit him, so that had he not been very nimble, he could not possibly have escaped with life: Next morning the two Travellers met again, but in a most deplorable condition; the Gout looked as if he were half drowned, and the Flea like one frightned out of his wits; therefore they next night resolved to change their Quarters; whereupon the Gout took possession of the Noble-man's Foot, and was presently entertain­ed with honourable attendance, comforted with Plaisters, covered with Scarlet and Flannel, laid upon Down-Beds and Cushions, and fed with the choicest Meats and Wines; and the Flea, when the Poor man was in Bed, presently fell a biting and sucking his Belly-full, who slept and snored so soundly, as not easily to be awak­ed, neither took any care to catch him, but left him safe in the Blankets till night again; so these two Friends meeting next morning, congratulated each others happiness, and resol­ved for the future to remain in the same sta­tion; the Gout continuing with the Rich man, and the Flea with the Poor.

FAB. XXXIII. The Flea and Gout.

FAB. XXXIV. The Fox and Ape.

AN Ape meeting a Fox well clothed with hair and a large tail; ah, how happy are you, quoth he, to be so handsomely adorn­ed? Whereas I for want of a tail and hair am almost naked and very deformed to my great trouble and vexation; the wise Fox to convince her of her mistake, desired her to walk with him; truly quoth the Ape, I am almost ashamed to be seen in your company in this rag­ged condition, when you are so well clad, how­ever I will wait on you; going together they met an Elephant that had lost his Teeth; brother, quoth the Fox, what mighty force wa that which could break your Teeth? It wa [Page 134] mens covetousness, quoth he, who furiously pur­suing me, I broke them off between two Trees for them to take up, and thereby ransomed my life; travelling on, they saw a Beaver bleed­ing that had lost his Testicles; the Fox inqui­ring about his misfortune, understood he bit them off himself, being sensible that it was for them men sought his destruction; a little fur­ther they observed a Peacock stript of his Wings and Tail, so as hardly to be known; The Fox pitying him; They were men, quoth the Peacock, who being pleased with my glorious Plumes, plundred and left me in this woful condition, to promote their own Pride and Vanity; walking on they found a Vulture whose breast was all raw and the skin torn off; sure says the Fox, you have met with very barbarous usage of late; it was from men, quoth he, who desirous of the Down on my breast, catcht me deceitfully, and abused me as you see; scarce were they parted from the Vul­ture, but they met a man with several little bundles, his Wife and Children in rags following him; whence come you pray with this Troop, quoth the Fox, I come, wretch that I am, says he, from a Conquered City where I was but yesterday, rich and abounding in all things, be the Enemy having ruined the Town, this is all I have left, being reduced to the extremity you see; the Fox turning to the Ape, see now brother, says he, what little happiness there is in the best things of this World; whereas thy deformity secures thee, that thou needest not fear being robb'd of any thing, but mayest live as happy as thou wilt.

FAB. XXXIV. The Fox and Ape.

FAB. XXXV.

The Lapwing and Parrot.

A Lapwing having observed a Parrot to hang in a fine gilded Cage in the Kings Pallace, and that his meat was provided for him without any pains or care, he began to be a little envious, and coming up to the Par­rot; I admire, says he, at your good fortune, that you are so much honoured, whereas I am very well satisfied that my Feathers are as beau­tiful as yours, and that my voice is altogether as pleasant, and for honour and dignity, I do as­sure you, I account my self much your superior, who seem to be born to dominion, since Nature [Page 140] has put a Crown on my head, well, I am resolv'd I will go the King and offer him my service, and doubt not of acceptance; accordingly he goes and presents himself to the King, and is admit­ted into Court, where he his put into a new Gol­den Cage, and wantoned in ease and luxury, being fed every day with meat from the Kings own Table; the Lapwing at first thought his condition altered much for the better, since he was now put to no trouble to seek for his living faring gallantly every day; but though new things may seem delightful for the present, yet at length he began to consider, that for enjoy­ing a little Luxury and Pleasure, he had forfeit­ed what was of a thousand times more value, namely his Liberty, being now confined to the narrow limits of a small Cage, and made a Prisoner for life, who formerly used to range through the Woods and Forrests without any controul. These reflections had so great an in­fluence upon him, that they threw him into a deep Consumption, and soon after he broke his heart and died for grief.

FAB. XXXV. The Lapwing and Parrot.

FAB. XXXVI.

The Fox and Wolf.

A Fox in seeking his prey, happened to come to a place where there was a Well that had two Buckets, into one of which he leapt, hoping to meet with something in it, but was no sooner there, e're the Bucket suddenly carried him down to the bottom, where he was in great danger of being murdered, starved or drown­ed; in this desperate condition he made a sad noise and howling, which a Wolf hard by hear­ing, came to the Wells mouth, and cried, who's below there? It is I dear Uncle, quoth the Fox, [Page 144] but why do you make such pitiful moan? says the Wolf, have you broke your Leg or hurt your self? Oh, no, quoth the Fox, the quite contrary, for having notice that at the bottom of this Well there was a very great quantity of Fish, I went down to fill my belly, where I have been fishing ever since, and have got such a multitude, and eaten so heartily, that I think I shall burst, & yet there's enough left to serve you and your young ones a month together, tho' you feed never so heartily; I am glad of that, quoth the Wolf, but all the craft will lye in getting them up; Uncle, says the Fox, they are all in the Bucket with me, therefore do you but leap into the other Bucket that hangs above, and you will be with me instantly; the Wolf presently leaps into the Bucket, and with his weight soon brought up the Fox in the other, who in pas­sing by him cried out, good night Uncle, this is the fashion of the World, some go up, and some go down, and so skipping out run away leaving the Wolf at the bottom of the Well, where he continued till some Shepherds coming for water drew him up, and finding what he was, fell upon him with Clubs and Staves, so that he hardly es­caped with his life.

FAB. XXXVI. The Fox and Wolf.

FAB. XXXVII.

The Shepherd, Wolf and Fox.

A Shepherd who usually diverted himself while his flocks were feeding, with play­ing on the Bagpipe, happened one day to see a Creature appear at a great distance, which seemed to dance to the tune of his Pipe; next day he took notice he did the same, which while he was observing, he perceives a Fox approaching him with a smiling countenance, who told him that he came with a Message, which he doubted not would be very acceptable, namely, to propose terms of friendship and accommodation between [Page 148] the Wolves and the Sheep, being sent by the Wolf who did much condemn the cruelty of his Parents and Kindred that were so bloudy to the poor innocent harmless Sheep; whereas he is resolved to live peaceably and neighbourly with them, without the least disturbance, espe­cially if you would please to teach him to play upon the Bagpipe, wherewith he is so much delighted, that when ever you strike up he cannot forbear dancing, and therefore would willingly keep company with you and your sweet Lambs, that he might be partaker of that pleasant diversion; the Shepherd who knew the strict League of Rapine and Robbery between them, replies, well, though I much suspect the Ambassador, yet I should be glad of a last­ing peace, whereby I shall save many a fat Sheep and Lamb, therefore upon condition he will permit me to pluck out his Teeth and cut cut off his Nails, I am willing he should come and converse with the Flocks, and dance with them to my Musick, because he will have no occasion for those offensive Weapons, while he is in such honest company as we are. The Fox finding himself outwitted in his own Politicks, sneakt away ashamed, without any further reply.

FAB. XXXVII. The Shepherd, Wolf and Fox.

FAB. XXXVIII.

The Ape turn'd Carpenter.

AN unlucky Ape sitting over against a Car­penters Yard, took much notice how he wrought, & was mighty desirous to imitate him, discoursing thus with himself; certainly I could easily be Master of this Trade without seven years slavery to learn it, as no doubt this dull Fellow hath had; for I am of opinion that it is only for want of practice, or else we Apes could soon out do men in all Acts and Sciences; and I remember a notable King in India hav­ing taken several of my elder Brethren, called Ba­boons, [Page 152] Prisoners, he was resolved to put them to Plow and Sow, and to make Souldiers of them, alledging that they would not speak, because they were Idle and unwilling to work; well, I have a great inclination to try my skill, but hope I shall have better fortune than a Nephew of mine, who living in an house over against a Cobler, and often observing how he cut his Leather to peices to Soal the Shoes, when the Cobler was absent, he leaps into his Stall and strives to imitate him, who returning and finding his Leather all mangled and spoil'd, re­solved to be revenged; & one day when he saw my Cosen Pug look earnestly at him, he took up his sharp cutting Knife, and drew it over his Throat divers time, and then going away, my silly kinsman skipt instantly into his Shop, and taking the Knife, thinking to do the same, he cut his own Throat therewith and died; but I'le take more care; and so getting into the Carpenters Yard he began to handle his Tools, and to split Wood therewith, but on a sudden his foot was catcht in a cleft peice of Board, and held there so fast that he could not stir, but crying out, the Carpenter came, and perceiv­ing his folly, with many scoffs and blows dismist him. This comes of it, quoth the Ape, to be over conceited of our own wit, but I now find it is not so easie to be a workman as I at first sight did imagine.

FAB. XXXVIII. The Ape turn'd Carpenter.

FAB. XXXIX.

The Panther and Peasants.

CErtain rude Countrey Peasants happening to find a Panther in a Pit, into which he had accidently fallen, they with much malice and fury fell upon the poor distressed Creature, whom they knew to have long frequented the neighbouring Fields, and yet had never offered them the least wrong nor injury; however they with Clubs, Staves and Stones endeavoured to destroy him in the bottom of the Pit, & then left him, expecting to find him dead the next morn­ing; but several charitable Shepherds happen­ing [Page 156] to come by soon after, they took pity up­on him, and finding him yet alive, though very dangerously wounded and bruis'd, they gave him meat, and used all means possible for his recovery; by this relief, his Spirits began a little to revive, and making a brisk attempt he happily leapt out of the Pit, and with a great deal of rejoicing, made hast to his own dwelling. In process of time, he regained the use of his Limbs, and his former vigour, and then marching with much fury into the Forrest, made horrible slaughter among the Cattle of those surly Boors, who had so villanously abu­sed him, in revenge of their cruelty and ingra­titude; so that the people trembled for fear of him, yea those that had been compassionate to him, much doubted the loss of their Flocks, nay, were afraid they should hardly escape with their Lives; which the Panther perceiv­ing, fear nothing my friends, quoth he, I will not do you the least damage, who only design to make those wretches that used me so barba­rously sensible of their baseness toward me in distress, who lived peaceably among them, and always treated them as Friends; for I can easily distinguish between those who gave me bread, and others that gave me blows.

FAB. XXXIX. The Panther and Peasants.

FAB. XL.

The Bear and Wolf.

THE Wolf and the Bear travelling through the Forrest, the Wolf asked the Bear why he always held down his head toward the ground, I cannot well tell the reason of it, says he, but I suppose it proceeds from the stiffness of my neck; why then do not you get Horns to your Head? quoth the Wolf, as Bulls, and Stags, and Rams, and other Creatures are armed with; whereby you may defend your self against your Enemies, and they will like­wise be a great ornament to your forehead? I [Page 160] would have Horns with all my heart, says the Bear, but since nature has not been so kind to bestow any upon me, I am afraid it will be ve­ry hard to procure them, why, says the Wolf, I believe it may be done, if you will but apply your self to a Man, for they are so ingenious that nothing almost is too hard for them to con­trive. The silly Bear did as he counselled him, and at length he met with a Man who under­took the business, but first he demanded what he would expect for a reward? I can see no­thing quoth the Workman, that is of any va­lue about you, except your cropt ears; take them freely, cries the Bear, for a gallant pair of Horns will become me much better than they, and so suffered his Ears to be cut off with much torture; now, says the Operator, I must boar two holes in your Head, that they may be strongly fastened into your thick Skull; What do you think I am mad, quoth the Bear, to have holes made in my Head, sure you intend to murder me; it is impossible to be done other­wise, says the Surgeon; well then, quoth the Bear in a rage, though I have been such a block­head to lose my Ears, yet I had rather want Horns than lose my Life; and so went away very much discontented.

FAB. XL. The Bear and Wolf.

FAB. XLI.

The Wolf, Fox and Ape.

THE Wolf accused the Fox that one day when he was abroad, Reynard came in­to his Den, and stole from thence a large quar­ter of mutton, which he had left of a Sheep the night before, and reserved for his Dinner. The Fox utterly denied the matter, with ma­ny protestations and imprecations; at length they concluded to bring the controversie before the Ape, and make him the Arbitrator and Judge between them; Being come, the Wolf pleaded, that the wicked thieving Fox there present, who was known to live by spoil and rapine, had feloniously rob'd him of his provi­sion [Page 162] in his absence, and when he desired him to restore his stoln goods, he like an impudent Rascal forswore it; and that it was not the first time by twenty that he had served him, and many other Creatures in the same manner, he therefore hoped his Worship would now do him justice against this common Thief. The Fox replies, what this bloudy ravenous Wolf alledges against me is altogether false, as well as very improbable, for first he never saw me near his hole, nor has he any witness to prove a word he says; and in the next place, he is such a devouring hungry villain, that he never leaves any thing over night against next day, but is continually lying in wait to murder the innocent, therefore I hope your worship will clear me of this scandal, and punish this false accuser; well quoth the Ape, I find the old Proverb true, that Two of a Trade can never agree, and Thieves are seldom honest to one another; I do not perceive the Wolf hath lost any thing, and yet I believe the Fox hath stoln somewhat; let me therefore advise you to go home and live as peaceably as people of your Calling can do, but be sure never to trust any farther than you can see one another.

FAB. XLI. The Wolf, Fox and Ape.

FAB. XLII.

The Fox and Bear.

THE Beasts of the Forrest meeting toge­ther, had a solemn consultation how they should free themselves from the danger and sla­very whereinto many of them were oft brought by Men, whose strength was much inferior to theirs; The Fox alledged that men were so subtil and politick, as it would be very diffi­cult to secure themselves against their Wiles though they were much stronger; this put the Bear into a great fury; who cried This is a good plea for such a Coward as Reynard is, when without doubt it is nothing but our want of courage, and our meanness of Spirit that gives [Page 166] men such advantage over us; for consider the Horse or the Elephant, whom twenty men were not able to manage if they were sensible of their own abilities, and yet these suffer one Man, yea a Child to have dominion over them; therefore my advice is, that we should lay aside those unnatural quarrels among our selves, whereby we destroy one another, and all una­nimously unite against our common enemy Man; and then I do not Question but we shall preserve our Liberties, and bring them in sub­jection to us; the Bear having roared out this couragious speech, had few that seconded him, since it appeared impossible to be effected to the generality there present, so that the Assembly broke up without concluding upon any thing; Soon after the Bear was catcht in a snare, and had rings put into his Nose, being taught to dance, and was led about the streets to get mo­ney for his Master; whom the Fox meeting, un­cle quoth he, I wonder how you come to be in this condition who talked so big the other day; ah, quoth the Bear, Cuz, I find it is one thing to talk and another to do; and so past a­long very heavily in performing his daily drud­gery.

FAB. XLII. The Fox and Bear.