I b {! i | | Ry | gh | pres | ES b 3 { : hs i 3 iF 4 LAB DAILY Filmed & Processed by the | Library Photographic Service | University of California Berkeley 94720 Is or te ll 5 E ho Il = Il I ———— —————— —————— ————— 21 —— —— —— —— ———— —— — — — —— Ee —— DOCUMENT J) A LIA [| Ni | yf ~ LA DY THE MASTER NEGATIVE,FROM WHICH THIS REPRODUCTION WAS MADE, IS STORED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE LIBRARY PHOTOGRAPHIC SERVICE, ROOM 20, MAIN LIBRARY, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA 9 4 7 2 0 FOR ADDITIONAL REPRODUCTION REQUEST MASTER NEGATIVE NUMBER FABLES OF ESOP, AND OTHERS: 7 ; / i TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH. Ne WITH INSTRUCT] VE 4PPLIC4 TIONS : “ND A PRINT BEFORE Eycq FABLE. — By SA MUEL, CROXAT, L, D.D. LATE ARCHDEACOYN OF HEREFORD, rt ——— THE TWENTY-SECOoND EDITION, CAREFULLY REVISED. EE ——— A ————— LONDON; PRINTED FoR c, AND J, RIVINGTON ; J. CUTHELL; Ff, AND SON; J. RICHARDSON ; LONGMA 3 I. CADELL,; : W. GINGER; J, MAWMAN; i HARDING aNp CO. ; a = BALDWIN Axp CO.; HAMILTON AND co0.; G, B, WHITTAKER; CNeibait SIMPKIN AND MARSHALL; AND J, SOUTER, ———— 182; Je T. C. Hansard, Pator-noster-row Preess - ~~} / TO THE Td gd / XA po RIGHT HONOURABLE 525 GEORGE, LORD VISCOUNT SUNBURY, BARON HALIFAX. “0 cee My Lozp, You must not he surprised at my begging your protection for this little book, when I “assure you It was principally intended for your perusal. ¥ hed to see something of this kind an able hand; and, for ave sometimes had an inclination, to but never came to any resolution till very lately ; when at Horton, I had the plea- Sure to find your Lordship, though but in your fifth year, capable of reading any thing in" the English tongue, without the least hesitation, These Fables, my Lord, abound in variety of instruetion, moral and politieal. They furnish ug with rules for every station of life ; they mark oug 3 proper behaviour for us, both in respect of our- selves and others; and demonstrate to us, by a kind of example, every virtue which claims our best regards, and every vice which we are most concerned to avoid. Considering them jp this view, I could not think of any thing more 2 more likely to procure it, ’ your imbibing, in your childhood, such seeds of reason and philosophy, as may rectify and sweeten every part of your future life, And as you are py - 058 vi DEDICATION. birth entitled to a share in the administration of the government, I flatter myself that your country will feel the benefit of these lectures of morality; when hereafter it beholds your Lordship, steadily pursuing those principles of honesty and benevo- lence, which, by such instructions in your infancy, you will be taught to love. I am happy, upon several accounts, in the op- portunity I take in addressing myself to your Lord- ship, in this early time of your life. Without any reflection upon your parts, my Lord, I comfort myself with the consideration, that you are not yet able to discern the imperfections of my perform- ance. Nay, when you are a little older, and your judgment 1s strong enough to discover every weak- ness in the following sheets, you will yet remem- ber for what a young capacity they were intended 3 and whatever you may think of the style and lan- guage, the honest purpuse of the whole cannot fail of your approbation. ‘Another advantage, my Lord, is, that when I tell the world you are the most lovely and the most engaging child that ever was born, I cannot be charged with offending in point of flattery. No one ever saw you but thought the same. And this puts me in mind, that you are descend- ed from a race of patrons; arts and learning did not owe more to the influence of Mecenas at Rome, than they have done to that of Montague at London. Perhaps, young as you are, you may think it strange to find yourself at the head of a dedication ; but, my Lord, nobody else will won- der at it. You are born to protect and encourage all endeavours at the public good. We cannot help telling you, that we expect it from you, and we beg leave to put you In mind to assert your native right. DEDICATION. If it be true that v blood, and communicate the presumption imagina or acquired I wi are - ae a bit pretend to determine. The them born with hi 1tual to him, one would think complished, that id but at the same time so : fod the al Sr uno but discover they Ras If IT durst follow i nished education. sensible of them, I ams of a heart truly ¥. - id Je Ww Se. atlas of his worth. But ig = he docs Pp se so much, declines it more th : . ced, my Lord, his merit is so Ta 2 that we ca 1 nnot do him just 1 oh offending him, rsieoIa, (hat wot at, upon all occasi ; casions, vy imi example h ay mu 8 pis Entry oi *opy out hig on : © i es - of mankind, is the sincere My Lord, vii irtue may be conve d d by example, I es x ble for what I , the Earl of Halifue yy Your Lordship’s most obedient, And most humble servant, Hampton. Court, S.C ROXALL, | May 1, 1722. PREFACE. So much has been already said concerning sop and his writings, both by ancient and modern authors, that the subject seems to be quite exhausted. The differ- ent conjectures, opinions, traditions, and forgeries, which, from time to time, we have had given to us of him, would fill a large volume: but they are, for the most part, so inconsistent and absurd, that itwould be but a dull amusement for the reader to be let into such a maze of uncertainty : since Herodotus, the most ancient Greek historian, did not flourish till near a hundred years after ZEsop. As for his life, with which we are entertained In SO somplete a manner, before most of the editions of his Fables, it was invented by one Maximus Planudes, a Greek monk ; and, if we may judge of him from that composition, just as judicious and learned a person as the rest of his fraternity are at this day observed to be. Sure there never were so many blunders and childish dreams mixed up together, as are to be met with in the short compass of that piece. For a monk, he might be very good and wise, but in point of history and chrono- logy, he shows himself tobe very ignorant. He brings ZEsop to Babylon, in the reign of king Lycerus,a king of his own making; for his name is not to be found in any catalogue, from Nabonassar to Alexander the Great; Nabonadius, most probably, reigning in Babylon about that time. He sends him into Egyptin the days of Nec- tanebo, whowas not in being till two hundred years af- terwards; with some other gross mistakes of thatkind, which sufficiently show us that this life was a work of invention, and that the inventor was a bungling, poor creature. He never mentions /Esop’s being at Athens; though Pheedrus speaks of him as one that lived the PREFACE. ix greatest part of his time there ; and it appears that h had a statue erected in that city to his memor iy by the hand of the famed Lysippus. He wiih ‘of Fie as living at Samos, and interesting himself in a public capacity in the administration of theaffairsof that im 3 yet takes not the least notice of the fable WOOL ging totle tells us he spoke in behalf of a famous demagooue there, when he was impeached for embezzling te oa lic money ; nor does he indeed give us the or of such a circumstance. An ingenious man might have laid together all the materials of this kind that are t be found in good old authors, and by the help of : bright Invention, connected and worked them i ith, success : we might Lave swallowed such an pi well enough, because we should not have known how to Sony iaitiol it : but in Planudes’s case, the imposture " Jon discovered ; first, as he has the unquestioned sui) os of antiquity against him ; secondly (and if the voter i not condemn him), as he has introduced the ¥ > screet, judicious ZEsop, quibbling in a strain OW monastic waggery, and as archly dull mountebank’s jester. isa . That there was a life of Esop, either written or tr ditionary, before Aristotle’s time, is pretty plain; a a that there was something of that kind extant in Au tus’s reign is, I think, as undoubted; since Phodies mentions many transactions of his, during his abode o Athens. But it is as certain, that Planudes met with nothing of this kind ; or at least that he met not with the accounts with which they were furnished, becau of the omission before-mentioned ; and conse i with none so authentic and good. He seems to ha > thrown together so many conceits which occurred ho him in the course of his reading, such as he thought Yess oy of efter, Sud very confidently obtrudes s. But, when at 1 i i to Delphos (where he was put to death by eign * Arist. Rhet. Lib. 2, Cap. 21. AS X PREFACE. down from a precipice) that the Delphians might have some colour of justice for what they intended to do, he favours them with the same stratagem which Joseph made use of to bring back his brother Benjamin ; they clandestinely convey a cup into his baggage, overtake him upon the road, after a strict search find him guilty 3 upon that pretence carry him back to the city, condemn and execute him. As 1 would neither impose upon others, nor be im- posed upon, I cannot, as some have done, let such stuft as this pass for the life of the great /Esop. Planudes has little authority for any thing he has delivered con- cerning him ; nay, as far as I can’find, his whole ac- count, from the beginning to the end, is mere invention, excepting some few circumstances ; such as the place of his birth and of his death; for in respect of the time in which he lived, he has blundered egregiously, by mentioning some incidents as contemporary with ZEsop, which were far enough from being so. Xanthus, his sup- posed master, puts Lis wife into a passion, by bringing such a piece of deformity into her house, as our author is described to be. Upon this the master reproaches the slave for not uttering something witty, at a time that seemed to require 1t so much : and then ZEsop comes out, slap, dash, with a satirical reflection upon women, taken from Euripides, the famous Greek trage- dian. Now Euripides happened not to be born till about fourscore Yeats after Esop’s death. What credit there- fore can be givele-apy thing Planudes says of him ? As to the place of his birth, 1 will allow, with the generality of those who have written about him, that it might have been some town in Phrygia Major. Lu- cian calls him Alcwmos 6 ppo&: In Pheedrus he is styled Phryx Asopus; and A. Gellius, making mention of him, says, Zsopus ille, Phrygia, Fabulator. That he was also by condition a slave, we may conclude from what Pheedrus® relates of him. But whether at both Samos * Lib. 2. Fab. 9. & Lib. 3. Fab. 19. PREFACE. xi and Athens, he does not particularly mention : though I am inclined to think it was atthe latter only; ore he often speaks of him as living at that place; and re. at any other. Which looks as if Phecdrus believed that he had never lived any where else. Nor do I see how he could help being of that opinion, if others of the an- cients, whose credit is equally good, did not carry him into other places, Aristotle introduces him (as Pe fons before) speaking in public to the Samians, upon e occasion of their demagogue, or prime ministe being impeached for plundering the commonwealth : which oration he makes him insert the Fable of tl 8 Fox who was pestered with Flies ;* and who, upon oe Hedgehog’s offering to drive them away i; 1 t consent to it, upon suspicion that a new Swarm wo a come in their room, and drain him of all the es f the blood in his body. Which sop applies thus: «Y, un of Samos, let me entreat you to do as the Fox did; oe his man, having got money enough, can have no arther occasion to rob you; but if you put him t death, some needy person will fill his place, wh e wants must be supplied out of your ore Ag I cannot but think ZEsop was something abov h degree of a slave, when he made such a ficure § dhe eminent speaker in the Samian state. Perhaps he - have been in that low condition in the former on his life ; and therefore Pheedrus, who had been re same rank himself, might love to enlarge upon this i. cumstance, since he does not choose to represent hi iin any higher sphere; unless we allow him to bets ta ing in as public a capacity to the Athenians, u 5 vi occasion of Pisistratus’s seizing their Tiberi ‘ have before supposed he did to the Samians But os Sa ever, granting that he was once a slave we have : authority that he was afterwards not only free iy in high veneration and esteem with all that knew bi i especially all that were eminent for wisdom and Ti * CXCV. of this Collection. + Phed. Lib. 1. Fab. 2. mS po — wr A" $1 Xil PREFACE. Plutarch, in his Banquet of the Seven Wise Men, among several other illustrious persons, celebrated for their wit and knowledge, introduces Esop. And, thoughin one place he seems to be ridiculed by one of the com- pany for being of a clumsy mongrel shape, yet in general he 1s represented as very courtly and polite in his behaviour. He rallies Solon and the rest for taking too much liberty in prescribing rules for the conduct of sovereign princes ; putting them in mind, that those who aspire to be the friends and counsellors of such, lose that character, and carry matters too far, when they proceed to censure and find fault with them. Upon the credit of Plutarch, likewise, we fix the life of Asop in the times of Creesus, king of Lydia; with whom he was in such esteem, as to be deputed by him to consult the Oracle at Delphos, and be sent as his envoy to Periander, king of Corinth; which was about three hundred and twenty years after the time in which Homer lived, and five hundred and fifty before Christ. Now, though this imaginary Banquet of Plutarch does not carry with it the weight of a serious history, yet we may take it for granted, that he introduced no- thing in hisfictitious scene which might contradicteither the written or traditionary life of /Esop; but rather chose to make every thing agree with it. Be that as it will, this is the sum of the account which we have to ive of him. Nor, indeed, is it material for us to know the little trifling circumstances of his life : as whether he lived at Samos or Athens, whether he was a slave or a freeman, whether handsome or ugly. He has left us a legacy in his writings that will preserve his memory dear and perpetual among US; what we have to do, therefore, is to show ourselves worthy of so valuable a present, and to act, in all respects, as near as we can fo the will and intention of the donor. They who are ther motive than the governed by reason, need no © mere goodness of 2 thing to incite them to the practice of it. But men; for the most part, are so su erficl in their inquiries, that they? is 14 i hk + » and seasonable doctrine, in the ake all upon trust; and PREFACE. ili . | X11t ve no taste for any thing but what is supported b y the vogue of others ry the fashion of the PR op sesusitens with inducement, theref : the pers » therefore, to such a g hr I wv Bo SYersauon of ZEsop,I Bos eset fis SCT aa ah In great esteem by most of the em cient Greoks here Is scarce an author among he reat writings, but eith mixed any thing of morality i a $s described be Pl quotes or mentions him. fw . into Norse eadl ato” as turning some of his fables hs spent in Oo A hom which phaues not onl B le before his death. Arist him mu ly takes hints from him i ought leh oils hobo, as one whose Lina Hoss man upbraiding clore any other. He brings os o ness in these 8 soiher with ignorance and illiter one not so much ea iy Aiowmoy WEBALTENOS, You fate: serves, a Ot sop; it being, as Suidas Bre Secu) speaks of him rite (as you have emetrius Phalereus wrote ope. poss tells an ol y a book i So Lotmuan Ayu i Ahan manner, that Wd of which were ZEsop’s, or don nz name. Ennius oushe fit to call the oir be i poetry with him. Pheed orace have embellished h 4 a A. Gellius EWN, ae ota Aadant applause, 00 parti . no im 1 . he, P Sete heomiied, “ /Esop, the mt i tation for his wisd abulist, has justly acquired ar Mae IRE coh om; for as to those things he tate and presc visabis for us to do, he does not dic. way, so much i” d them in that haughty dogmati al dresses up a ey oy song sther philosophers ; bot and by them ¢ of agreeable entertainin stori : onveys to the mind the most Ey : most pleasant manner. As that fablet a ie 2 | ’ * In Pheedone. 1 Fab, XXXVIII g . s upon the to lay any stress ? ) . nable, never which we tiest yy fe, in regard to any affair assistan » Then he thout them. ‘ . 0 manage Will itself are ourselves SA a fine version of the pm he, roceeds to ned it, ¢ this fable OF BA we and, PS to us concerning he os and what «is a lec friends and re ’ on our irl S ach us more, ares books of philosophers teach LCI now do the gi< depend upon ourse "reach should depend our reach, hen et things which are beyond not 10¢C 1es as any concern rl his person was, the Bones Ww i agm Ties er very charming and wy Bg his ad- of his Te lebrated among the cp ture, and pay the mos k of him wi wise Sp t they speak of the other W mirers ; tha J him, as to any ceive espect to ’ r can 1 perc » - Se eh in the same age. No nw : tv Se any author of Ay "him. If he had, he ast represe hocking to the eye a5 TAR ous and shocking to YS) have been y o = ints of him, 1 } deed, from what Plutarch h his mien, but family. os had something Jo excite mirth suspec ly, and more 1 ha Per- than ugly, d with him. rather odd th that conversec in hi s those : his coun than disghsy oo humorous displayed ny be upon haps Se well as his A Tg of TIehwTomoiog, tenan that he go Aoiz. HOW= account of DO and his works thes of Soe insisting as Yaugion oo go a middle way his deformity, allow ever we or giving m1 . at least as upon bis be: a Soy dowien i conclude, him to hav Tape ie, Vd is so tender of here, is iohe 3h ion] of the freedom of the mind. x lyieyer understood it so, I dare say, that knew oh dioiler freedom was. As for what he mentions, PREFACE. Xix greatest tyrant that lives, to deprive Wolf was only sensible how sweet ind was, and had no concern for the rson, he might have ventured to have og well enough ; but then he would have saved Lestrange the spoiling of one of the best fables in the whole collection. However, this may SErve as a pattern for that gentleman’s candour and ingenuity in the manner of drawing his reflections. sop breathed liberty in a political sense, whenever he thought fit to hint any thing about that happy state. And Phedrus, whose hard lot it was once to have been a domestic slave, had yet so great a veneration for the liberty I am speaking of, that he made no scruple to write in favour of it, even under the usurpation of a tyrant, and at a time when the once glorious free peo- ple of Rome had nothing but the form and shadow of their ancient constitution left. This he did particularly in the fable of the Frogs desiring a King;* as I have observed in the application to it. After which I leave it to the decision of any indifferent person whether Lestrange, in the tenor of his reflections, has proceeded without straining most things in point of politics, be- yond the strictest equity of a fair and an innocent meaning. Whether I have mended in this or any other respect, ment of the reader ; professi ciple on which the followi that I am a lover of liberty and truth; tyranny, either in church o tests party animosities, as I wish the peace and the power of the us of it. If the the freedom of m liberty of his pe gone with the d the faults I find with him, I must leave to the judg- ng (according to the prin- ng applications are built) an enemy to r state; and one who de- and factious divisions, as much prosperity of my country. * Fab. III. THE TABLE OF CONTENTS. A. i Fas. 101 ZASOP at Play ses ancsUININN b8ends tr 172 Page i 170 Zsop and the Impertinent Ie 71 The Angler and the Little Fish ceeaeecaee 27 The Ant and the Fly ecsssessspacst asses 205 121 The Ant and the Grasshopper .....s.eee =U 123 The Ape and the FOX ..cecesnvacrcencss 186 The Ape and her two Young Ones .....«.. 42 The Ass in the Lion’s SKin ..ceeececcssse 72 The Ass and the Lion Hunting secseeeeee 73 The Sensible Ass +... sess ssessg sess i 122 The Ass, the Lion, and the Cockeseoacssse 124 The Ass and the Little Dog 163 The Ass eating Thistles ..eceasesasverss 62 The Hunted Beaver B. se so ss * 165 The Bees, the Drones, and t 37 The Belly and the Members 165 The Birds, the Beasts, 10 The Two Bitches emeasatss te sea er ston vd 173 The Blackamoor etesasssse es seenssss sn 14 The Boar and the AsS css. “119 The Boy and his Mother es ss sssess secs 131 : 75 The Brother and Sisteresscsssssssscapose 146 14 The Bull and the Goat cs covevevessscse se C. esses st ssesese { 126 The Bear and the Beehives .oocvsccoessee seamensss sia he Waspaes. aes 279 es ss ss stan a TEER REESE BJ t Fellow oo conses 287 i 126 48 208 311 78 127 128 207 ; 210 276 214 111 68 and the Bat ceeees 212] 18 292 25 201 105 Caesar and the Slave es 0snsssasttssss tien 178 58 The Wanton Calf ...eoecesvercessarcone 102 69 The Cat and the Fox a ASIA YY 19 88 The Cat and the Mice sesceveavecsenscss Jae 128 The Cat and the Cock «eecceovascooscces 1 The Cock and the Jewel sssnsn sh otesne® 127 The Cock and the Fox es ss ss ss stems? 205 182 The Fighting Cocks «essssassssecscrcsse O00 79 The Covetous Man cette ss sent es sss 25 The Countryman and the Snake..... >on 35 The Country Mouse and the €ity Mouse .. 3 109 The Two Crabs ..... 2 53 The Crow and the Pitcher ..osvecevecese 14 . 215 193 The Cock and the FOX sssvses reece vceecs 3 76 The Collier and the Fuller socevesvceccee 137 . 45 "EEE EE EN EEE se ss sc ate THE CONTENTS. D. Fab: 132 Death and Cupid 191 The Peer sro te 2244228004000 0000p4,, 224 Page Li $sss 0s ¢ 99 The One-eyed Doe 10n tess 0000 4, 329 5 The Dog and the Shadow... > 2 1: "*+ 169 19 The Dog and PE dati 8 44 The Mischievous Dog Teeesteius 139 180 The Dog invited to Supper ~~ "1" """* 220 133 The Dove and the Autoren on 05" io 334 The Eagle F. 148 The Falconer and the Partri 0 artrid 0000S Ss se 83 The Fir-tree and the Prantie . is verve pa 100 The River Fish e Sea Fi 7 175 The Fisherman Rk hieen Tah vonuinsy 255 94 The Forester and the Lion oat} 91 Fortune and the Bo RN Ie 85 The Fowler and the Blackbird "~~" re 97 The Fowler and the Yark.... A a 152 The Fowler and the Ringdove on i : : 9 The Fox and the Crow ...... rir 358 12 The Fox and the Stork ,. tern . 22 The Fox and the Grapes «nue... """" I2 24 The Fox and the Goat .. vv .vemnrreer'” 44 51 The Fox and the Tiger-...v...vureerre or 91 65 The Fox without a Tail RERLIN 77 The Fox and the Vizor-Mask °° jis 87 The Fox and the Bramble fog nnn 151 89 The Fox and the Country 93 The Fox and the Ape Ese ryvann 15 95 The Fox and the Boar .,.. a 162 136 The Fox and the Lion ER 2 142 The Fox and the Sick Lion «rv. vreerr.... 24 166 The Fox in the Well, ..,, .. .. tt" oes 220 167 The Fox and the Wolf « ,.... ""**""* on 178 The Fox and the ASS vv. ensnsons. or 299 195 The Fox and the Hedgehog. . sevens. on. r. 396 3 The Frogs desiring a King 1.0000 8 10 eveves Seoassssesy, AE EET 15 The Frogs and the Fighting Bulls eryeevee 27 FAB. THE CONTENTS. 43 The Frog and the FOX svecvvsnsssrsrsasne 136 78 The Two Frogs «esses essscocrsssnsscsne 168 The Frog and the Mouse cs sssssvescccrse 284 G. 192 The Gardener and his Dog esesvestssccse a 137 The Geese and the Cranes ....c-cceece 81 The Goat and the Lion .coveeossroreses 141 H. 159 The Hare and the Tortoise sesesscscecces 269 30 The Hares and the Frogs coeeeveececcasse 2 : . 18 ses ss ss 108 The Harper «...esecesesceces 171 The Hart and the Vine......... 64 The Hawk and the Nightingale . 131 The Hawk and the Farmer oe coos seer sss 8s ss te res ss 288 113 ee.e 000 79 Page 176 The Hen and the Swallow +sseesaces 189 The Hen and the Fox ....ceveceses raves 317 56 Hercules and the Carter ........ "eh 62 34 The Horse and the Stag ..«... : 128 The Horse and the Ass. cece vve Sih Terres 200 140 The Horse and the Lion coccvvveeene Cee Be .e =| 164 The Horse and the Loaded ASS eseesese 172 The Drunken Husband 139 The Husbandman and his Sons 154 The Husbandman and the Stork,sesessees I. 4 The vain Jackdaw.s.... 102 The Jackdaw and the Pigeons.... 184 The Jackdaw and the Sheep «..... 45 Jupiter and the Camel «vcveevrpreenees 86 Jupiter and Pallas c..ecevevroneens 118 Jupiter and the Ass ss st staat sstistatan te 181 Jupiter and the Herdsman ..eoeveeorenes K, il4 The Kid and the Wolf et esBass tras ste ee 16 The Kite and the Pigeons ... 929 The Sick Kite...ooveeeees shen ssaven "hoe 47 The Bald Knight ctesasItt ISIE IRIE SIGS L. 20 The Lamb brought up by a Goat....... 38 The Lark and her Young Ones ..eeoevecs 59 The Leopard and the Fox ..occvssecaoes 6 The Lion and other Beasts ........ 31 The Lion and the MOUSe ++ covsvesscncrss 52 The Lion and the Four Bulls sv vass sree TEE EEE sso mos 37 70 105 10 36 93 THE CONTENTS. 67 The Lion in Love 82 The Lion and the Frog 14 Ths Hadicn Hon Eudes Aes vssnsrenes 142 e ion, the Bear and the $e s000es 194 104 The Lion, the Ass, and the tas Slike The Lioness and the Fox... $000 00ers ne in M. 17 The Man and his i 57 The Man and his 290 Fives satarssnen U1 (RAMU OY ADIE ..alil sian: on 1 Ts Man and his Wooden God | es auvrey 155 388 Ts Nanend the Weasel ...,.or ona 2 9 1¢ Man and the Gnat .,, irises 909 32 The Fatal Marriage ..... eesas S18 196 The Master and his Scholar. ....... !/ 3 In Tisreary and the Woodman .......... i 12 Mercury and the Carver .,,.. SE The Mice in Council . fonaniiares 208 94 The Moleand her Damy oes... > "2" 242 3 The Momtain in Labour , tel 3 ] OU S* sees 0vass sr es 3 The Mule: 2nd the Weasel... ......... 67 “tevsseatsennngans 118 PPP 0%5450040s $80 ests sree nss 158 N. 39 The Nurse and the Wolf 0 90 The Oak and the R 28 on a 143 The Old Lion... S0sv ees tones, » e Old Man and Death ,,,... "** i 6 The old Man and his BONE sie os 23 ) oman and the Em ty Cask -.. oo 147 The Old Woman and her Sly Cask er 168 e Owl and the Grasshopper.,,, " ay 20 P. 151 The Parrot and his Cage a1 doe Partridge and Seco : rma 200 21 The Peacock’s Complaint... pe 13 The Peacock and the Crane CH 130 The Peacock and the Magpie ..... 31 Jo3 a Ploughman and Fortune ,,, Ine gs e Porcupine and the Snakes , , , Sw 48 The Two Pots, , s.r. , .. Temes J% R 194 y The Raven and the Serpent, ,.., ered eres 325 “82000000 ass0s 73 sassssnses 86 Page - Fas. THE CONTENTS. S. 35 The Satyr and the Traveller esses tsetse 156 The Serpent and the Man ...cececeevese 106 The Sheep-Biter TET FETE EERE EE BANE IEA 155 The Shepherd’s Boy.s eso eeeesacsciasce 187 The Shepherd turned Merchant....ss--s. 103 The Sow and the Bitch...veeseeesisscess 153 The Sow and the Wolf . sicecearcrvnsses 104 The Sparrow and the Hare 8 The Stag looking into the Water ........ 18 The Stag in the Ox-Stall «vc. caveiavnnsee 69 The Stag and the Fawn ...ececvcaeecres 157 The Swallow and other Birds se.esceeesse T. 107 The Thiefand the Dogeissececssstacssce 110 The Thief and the Boy .ecoeeccnenscccnss 177 The Thieves and the Cock seesacosescses 47 The Thunny and the Dolphin ceases eases 40 The Tortoise and the Eagle......c0 000000 46 The Travellers and the Bear ...cccvaesee 74 The Boasting Traveller «c.ocsecscesesse 174 The Travellers sceeesseecvens 158 The Trumpeter taken Prisoner ....... ces Vv. 23 The Viper and the Filese esas es esse sssens Ww. 142 The Creaking Wheelssesoseassostsssasn 41 The Wind and the Sun...ccceesnnnescaes 2 The Wolf and the Lamb ....veicssccacns 7 The Wolf and the Crane ....ccceveneccen 116 The Wolf and the Kid ececeeerccrccncees 117 The Wolf, the Fox, and the Ape........ 160 The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing. .eee.. soeee 120 The Wolves and the Sick Ass 161 The Wolves and the Sheep «.. 33 The Wood and the Clown .ccceecccssess Y. 70 The Young Man and the Swallow «....... 162 The Young Man and his Cat ... .e 183 Two Young Men and the Cook ..ccouceee 188 The Young Man and the Lion Sess esses 98 Page 264 180 263 312 175 260 176 i3 33 122 266 182 186 298 112 75 83 129 293 124 274 307 ess cssenen 315 /ESOP’S FABLES. —— FABLE I. The Cock and the JEwEL. Ea a’ 3 N SCA aN Ee 1 = | A BRISK young Cock. in i company . with z ise Pullets, his mistresses, DE rth nghill for something to entertain them with, happened to scratch up a jewel; he knew what it w i i B gs Nel gh; for it sparkled with an exceeding en but, not knowing what to ith 1 Segvonied to cover his ignore under o iad hon a! shrugging up his wings, shaking his od, an putting on a gumace, he expressed him- 18 purpose : Indeed, youare a very fine thing’; x ; x = A 2 AESOP’S FABLES. but I know not any business you have here. I make no seruple of declaring that my taste lies quite another way; and I had rather have cne grain of dear de- licious barley, than all the jewels under the sun. THE APPLICATION. Thereare several people in the world, that pass, with some, for well accomplished gentlemen, and very pretty fellows, though they are as great strangers 10 the true uses of virtue and knowledge, as the Cock upon the dunghill is to the real value of the jewel. He palliates his ignorance, by pretending that his taste lies another vay : but whatever gallant airs people may give them- selves upon these occasions, without dispute, the solid advantagesofvirtue, and the durable pleasures of learn- ing, are as much to be preferred before other objects of the senses, as the finest brilliant diamond is above a barleycorn. The greatest blockheads would appear to understand, what at the same time they affect to despise; and nobody yet was ever SO vicious, as to have the impudence to declare in public, that virtue was not a fine thing. But still among the idle sauntering young fellows of 11 to cultivate and im- ; the age, who have leisure, as we prove the fac ultics of themind, as to the body, how many are tl raking after new scenes of debauchery, in comparison of those few who know how to relis entertainments! Honest, undesigning good sense is so unfashionable, that'he must be a bold man, who at this time of day attempts to bring it into esteem, How disappointed is the youth, who, in themidst of his amorous pursnits, endeavouring to plunder an out- side of bloom and beauty, finds a treasure of impene- trable virtue concealed within! be said, how delighted are the among a crowd of empty, frolicsome, mirers, they find out an “opinion, a man of sense, : : son, which, at first sight, they did not like. dress and embellish And why may it not fair sex, when, from conceited ad- d distinguish with their good with a plain, unaffected per- rere, who spend their days in 9 h more reasonable / i ER ———— ZSOP’S FABLES. 3 FABLE II. The WoLr and the Lamp. | I IW EE | I aa, En, - AI ge ERAN, TT ier fds VA fl = Reo = x Ae AV J 7 . L340 ‘ a Pei. a po HE ah Cg or 3 ! 1 f— ONE hot pened to hy t. sultry day, a Wolf and a lamb h Jone ome just at the same time ¢ Xi thirst in the stream of ‘ime to quench their tumbling d of a clear silver brook, that r w ho" down the side of a rocky moun y vvat yan olf stood upon the higher oround tam. The at some distance from him dow By ; and the Lamb eve : or ‘Il the current, m, asked him, What he meant by Se] the water ing i ter, and making it so muddy that he eon not drink ¥ ty, and at the same time » faction. same time, demanded satis. The Lamb, frigh i > Lar ghtened at this I charge, sold him, 1n a tone as mild as os Seaton yuh hay lo submission, he could not conceiy Foe | Lo could oh since the water which he a) oo So¥s fou ne Wolf to him, and therefore it ud Jo a gr ed so far up the stream. Be a di pies the Wolf, you are a rascal, and Ih : od that you treated me with ill 5 aw 2 nguage be ~ Nhe ” bi : wer LE ; AT rs a — a bite = rs 4 ESOP’'S FABLES, hind my back, about half a year ago. Upon my word, says the Lamb, the time you mention was before I was born. The Wolf, finding 3 Ho 1 purpose to argue any longer against truth, fe ig a great passion, snarling and foaming at the ogi) > as 1f he bad been mad; and drawing nearer 2 se i Lamb, Sirrah, says he, if 1t was he yors ey | your father, and that’s all one.—So he sel . poor, innocent, helpless thing, tore it to pieces, an made a meal of it. THE APPLICATION. The thing which is pointed at in this fais, is So dh vious, that it will be impertinent to mu tip y words about it. When a cruel, ill-natured man has a a to abuse one inferior to himself, £jiher in power jor courage, though he has not given the shy Oceasio] for it, how does he ressnoble ae. Yo 2 Thase onl J55 i mper could not be ae ts Frcighbouthood. In short wherever Ul people are in power, innocence and integrity ore x - to be persecuted ; the more vicious the Som iy 33 ’ the better countenance they have for hen ova wl Janous measures : to practise honesty, in ba i; is being liable to suspicion enougi ; but i uy oe should dare to prescribe it, 1L 1s ish to <8 Sut lig would be impeached of high Shmey nd, ti , ores to stand up for justice in 9 ‘ h To state, is iliy to upbraid the goveruinents 4 seldom fails of puting Sow Yeppemnee Ws § heal of him that offers to stir in IS C€ PB i cruelty and malice are 1n combination Ww : P wet | ine is so easy as for them to find a pretenc pis Rage reaeence, and exercise all manner of injustice. AZSOP’S FABLES. FABLE IIL. The Frocs desiring a Kine. THE Frogs, living an easy free life, every where among the lakes and ponds, assembled together one day, in a very tumultuous manner, and peti- tioned Jupiter to let them have a king, who might inspect their morals, and make them live a little honester. Jupiter, being at that time in pretty good humour, was pleased to laugh heartily at their ridiculous request; and throwing a little log down into the pool, cried, There is a king for you! The sudden splash which this made by its fall into the water, at first terrified them so exceedingly, that they were afraid to come near it. But in a little time, seeing it lie still without moving, they ven- tured by degrees to approach it; and at last, find- ing there was no danger, they leaped upon it; and, in short, treated it as familiarly as they pleased. But mot contented with so insipid a king as this was, they sent their deputies to petition again for another 6 ESOP’S FABLES. sort of one; for this they neither did nor could like. Upon that, he sent them a Stork ; who, without any ceremony, fell devouring and eating them up, one after another, as fast as he could. Then they applied themselves privately to Mercury, and got him to speak to Jupiter in their behalf, That he would be so good as to bless them again with another king, or restore them to their former state: —No, says he, since 1t was their own choice, let the obstinate wretches suffer the punishment due to their folly. THE APPLICATION. It is pretty extraordinary to find a fable of this kind, finished with so bold and yet polite a turn by Pheedrus: one who attained his freedom by the favour of Au- gustus, and wrote it in the time of Tiberius; who were, successively, tyrannical usurpers of the Roman government. If we may take his word for it, /Esop spoke it upon this occasion. When the commonwealth of Athens flourished under good wholesome laws ofits own enacting, they relied so much upon the security of their liberty, that they negligently suffered it to run out into licentiousness. And factions happening to ‘be fomented among them by designing people, much about the same time, Pisistratus took that opportunity to make himself master of their citadel and liberties both together. The Athenians finding themselves in a state of slavery, though their tyrant happened to be a very merciful one, yet could not bear the thoughts of it: so that /Esop, where there was no remedy, pre- scribes them to patience by the example of the fore- going fable : and adds, at last, “ Wherefore, my dear countrymen, be contented with your present condition, bad as it is, for fear a change should be worse.” ESOP’S' FABLES. FABLE IV. The vain Jack-Daywv. : Tl TE ~ =r TT ih AE Balik pith == ili il fh _— . £4 CERTAIN Jack-Daw was so proud and ambi- tious, that, not contented to live within his own sphere, he picked up the feathers which fell from the Peacocks, stuck them among his own, and very con- fidently introduced himself into an assembly of those beautiful birds. - They soon found him out, stripped him of his borrowed plumes, and falling upon him with their sharp bills, punished him as his presump- tion deserved. U pon this, full of grief and affliction, he returned to his old companions, and would have flocked with them again ; but they, knowing his late life and conversation, industriously avoided Five and refused to admit him into their company ; and one of them, at the same time, gave him this serious re- proof. If, friend, you could have been contented with your station, and had not disdained the rank in which nature had placed you, you had net been used so scurvily by those upon whom you introduced yourself, nor suffered the notorious slight which we now think ourselves obliged to put upon you. A th te abi rt i er A ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. What we may learn from this fable is, in themain, to live contentedly in our own condition, whatever it be, without affecting to look bigger than we are, by a false or borrowed light. To be barely pleased with appearing above what a man really is, is bad enough; and what may justly render him contemptible in the eyes of his equals : But if, to enable him to do this with some- thing of a better grace, he has clandestinely feathered his nest with his neighbour’s goods, when found out, he has nothing to expect but to be stripped of his plunder, and used like a feloniqus rogue into the bargain. FABLE V. The Doc and the Suapow. SHTELRIETTI yae i = 0 “© VES = a WF 5% ol 32 as ol LT — gs nill = ? ga VG n, Es il JU Mon I p— | | pent LAR nn A Doc, crossing a little rivulet, with a piece of flesh in his mouth, saw his own shadow represented in the clear mirror of the limpid stream; and believing it to be another Dog who was carry- ing another piece of flesh, he could not forbear ESOP’S FABLES. 9 catching at it ; but was so far from getting thing by his greedy design, that he dropt the piece he had in his mouth, which immediately sunk te the bottom, and was irrecoverably lost. THE APPLICATION. He that catches at more than belongs to him, justly deserves to lose what he has. Yet nothing is more common, at the same time more pernicious, than this selfish principle. It prevails, from the king to the peasant ; and all orders and degrees of men are, more or less, infected with it. Great monarchs have been drawn in, by this greedy humour, to grasp at the do- minions of their neighbours ; not that they wanted any thing more to feed their luxury, but to gratify their insatiable appetite for vain glory. If the kings of Persia could have been contented with their own vast territories, they had not lost all Asia for the sake of a little petty state of Greece. And France, with all its glory, had, ere now, been reduced to the last extremity, by the same unjust encroachments. He that thinks he sees another's estate in a pack of cards or a box and dice, and ventures his own in the pursuit of it, should not repine if he finds himself a beggar in the end. ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE VI. The Lion and other BEASTS. l Dlg = itl Tue Lion, and several other beasts, entered into an alliance, offensive and defensive, and were to live very sociably together in the forest; one day having made a sort of an excursion, by way of hunt- ing, they took a very fine, large, fat Deer, which was divided into four parts; there happening to be then present his Majesty the Lion, and only three others. After the division was made, and the parts set out, his Majesty, advancing forward some steps, and pointing to one of the shares, was pleased to declare himself after the following manner: This I seize and take possession of as my right, which devolves to me, as I am descended by a true, lineal, hereditary succession, from the royal family of Lion: that (pointing to the second) I claim by, I think no unreasonable demand, considering that all the engagements you have with the enemy turn chiefly upon my courage and conduct; and you ASOP’S FABLES. very well know, that wars are too expensive to be carried on without proper supplies. Then (nodding his head towards the third) that I shall take by vic- tue of my prerogative; to which, I make no ques- tion but so dutiful and loyal a people will pay all the deference and regard that I can desire. Now, as for the remaining part, the necessity of our pre- sent affairs is so very urgent, our stock so low, and our credit so impaired and weakened, that I must insist upon your granting that without any hesitation or demur ; and hereof fail not at your peril. THE APPLICATION. No alliance is safe which is made with those that are superior to us in power. Though they lay them- selves under the most strict and solemn ties at the opening of the congress, yet the first advantageous opportunity will tempt them to break the treaty; and they will never want specious pretences to furnish out their declarations of war. It is not easy to determine, whether it is more stupid and ridiculous for a commu- nity to trust itself first in the hands of those that are more powerful than themselves, or to wonder after- wards that their confidence and credulity are abused, and their properties invaded. ESOP’S FABLES. ESOP’S FABLES 13 THE APPLICATION. There is a sort of people in the world, to whom a ma may be in the wrong for doing services, upon a do ble Wi first, because they never deserved to hes g goo office done them; and secondly, because, when nce engaged, it is so hard a matter to get well id i acquaintance. : pg is fable i i rly ane Syn) = Sxamplo of ingratitude, as at first § 0 and as some of the mythologists ave understood it; to make a parallel in that case, th Crane ought to have been under some difficulties in his turn, and the Wolf have refused to assist him whe it was in his power. The whole stress of jt lies in this. that we ought to consider what kind of people the Sl Saye we ans desired to do good offices, before 0:5 1 Sa > il 1; Tor he that grants a favour, or even ¢ i li i <2 0 fl ail | a person of no honour, instead of finding onndes - fh Mee ll ll in 1t, comes off well if he is no sufferer, z aif! Il HT FABLE VII. The Wor and the CRANE. 3 A A A A Worry, after devouring his prey, happened to FABLE VIII. The S- ing i qs . ‘ . * . STAG looking V have a bone stick in his throat, which gave him ee "8 mio the Warp, so much pain, that he went howling up and down, Him | m= HE = CT and importuning every creature he met, to lend him it = a ~ a kind hand in order to his relief; nay, he promised Hii ~~ ge AN p03} a reasonable reward to any one that should under- i ee ; : take the operation with success. At last the Crane, tempted with the lucre of the reward, and having first procured him to confirm his promise with an oath, undertook the business, and ventured his long neck into the rapacious felon’s throat. In short, he plucked out the bone, and expected the promised gratuity. When the Wolf, turning his eyes disdain- fully towards him, said, I did not think you had been so unconscionable; I had your head in my oh, and could have bit it off whenever I plea- : sed, but suffered you to take it away without any AS TA : i had been dri : ! damage, and yet you are not contented ! Spring, saw himself in the water * and, pleased — £2 14 ASOP’S FABLES. with the prospect, stood afterwards for some time contemplat ng and surveying his shape and features, from head to foot. Ah’ says he, what a glorious pair of branching horns are there! how gracefully do those antlers hang over my forehead, and give an agreeable turn to my whole face! If some other parts of my body were but proportionable to them, I would turn my back to nobody ; but I have a set of such legs as really makes me ashamed to see them. People may talk what they please of their conveniences, and what great need we stand in of them, upon several occasions ; “but, for my part, I find them so very slender and unsightly, that I had as lief have none at all. While he was giving him- self these airs, he was alarmed with the noise of some huntsmen and a pack of hounds, that had been just laid on upon the scent, and were making towards him. Away he flies in some consterna- ‘tion, and, bounding nimbly over the plain, threw dogs and men at a vast distance behind him. Af- ter which, taking a very thick copse, he had the ill-fortune to be entangled by his horns in a thicket, where he was held fast, till the hounds came in and pulled him down. Finding now how it was like to go with him, in the pangs of death, he is said to have uttered these words : Unhappy creature that I am! 1 am too late convinced, that what I prided myself in, has been the cause of my undoing; and what I so much disliked was the only thing that could have saved me. THE APPLICATION. Perhaps we cannot apply this better, than by sup- posing the fable to be a parable ; which may be thus explained. The Deer, viewing itself in the water, is a beautiful young lady at her looking-glass. She cannot /ESOP’S FABLES. help being sensible of the ch every feature of her face. guishes with her eyes with the nicest exactnes her whole body; and t self, Ah! how happy mi rers, if it were not for When I view that face due, hasbeen liberal eno I be if it were not for t cote? ch fo The odious idea of that comes across all m gf 3 ments and brings a mortification with jt that domipst i i attering, tender hopes. Oh! that there nosh] ing in the world! In the midst of thes Jolhagmies, d € 1s interrupted by the voice of fies an troduing bs dso Eng 2 igadoon ai : se mm afamiliareas A408 Seon fo lanneh out in praise of hes ain So iki ase with it, snatches her hand, Kieses i 2 {feDsporh; 0d, In short, pursues his point so close ibajsheisnd e to disengage herself from him. But, a R0Tseqhence of all this approaches, in ap i ik k Rg shame, she fetches a deep sigh ha Sn A bi on mistaken have I been! the virt g ght have saved me; but the b ret $0 much has been my undoing. i 15 arms which lie blooming in _ She moistens her lips, lan- adjusts every lock of her hair $a gives an agreeable attitude to en, with a soft sigh, says to her- ght I be in a daily crowd of admi- the censoriousness of the age! » where Nature, to give he | rh ugh of charms, how easy ond hat slender particular—my ho- - ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE IX. The Fox and the Croty. A Crow having taken a piece of cheese out of e window, flew up into a high tree with which the Fox observing, came and sat underneath, and began to compli- ment the Crow upon the subject of her beauty. I protest, says he, I never observed it before, but your feathers are of a more delicate white than any that ever I saw in my life! Ah! what a fine shape and graceful turn of body is there! And I make no question but you have a tolerable voice. If it is but as fine as your complexion, I do not know a bird that can pretend to stand in competition with you. The Crow, tickled with this very civil language, nestled and riggled about, and hardly knew where she was; but, thinking the Fox a lit- tle dubious as to the particular of her voice, and having a mind to set him right in that matter, be- gan to sing, and, in the same instant, let the cheese a cottag it, in order to eat 1t; ESOP’S FABLES, 17 drop out of her mouth is bei ith. This being what wanted, he chopped it up in a hy 2% fis Pox away, laughi : the roe og to himself at the easy credulity of THE APPLICATION. Th WL 8 lows Raliery (as itis to be feared, too ng Po] air way to repent of their foible at whole race of yt ray ete, ong ihe - . 2 € 5 Prot gs its attacks ! the Goad a which on Sianaged, i ne silly practitioners, is enough to pe 4 os apprehension, and make it to value i Spon e richness of its insight into the little Plait or 9 is es But, let the ambuscade be dis- a nd g Judgment, and it will scarce fail of ne pen s guarded heart. How many are tickled ig Is 12 Sagres with the pleasure of flattery, even hey: 1s Shplanded for their honest detestation of yu way to baffle the force of this engine Deby. HY Ag Sisminiie impartially for himself, A is : of his own qualities : if he deals Sie Seely in the 2 ter, nobody can tell, so well as bimself tions ; FE NEE oan or bis ne: a | uld be entir he Opinion Wes are like to have of iy 4 a. 2F hey ati] ute more to him than is his due, the a : Shek a Signing or mistaken ; if they allow him Ton Hoy ame vious, or possibly, still mistaken; and, in Sher vase, are 5 be despised, or disregarded. For he is a fool : tk Qos ging v gm age fi urages t i he has sense enough to see through, ok my vis ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE X. The two BITCHES. j lp, entreated Tc, who was just ready to whelp, ent te Bitch to lend her her kennel, oly el ber month was up, and assured her that $ ie Shs should have it again. The other very readily oe sented, and with a great deal of civility, resign 1 lately. However, when the time was vil Ente Tod made her visit, and very op destly intimated, that now she was up and ve She hoped she should see her abroad aga pe ur thes really it would be inconvenient for her o Wil her kennel any longer, and Ci . gy ? ust be so free as to de Ras WY with other lodgings as soon 8 Je souls The lying-in Bitch replied, That truly s Jas ashamed of having kept her so log out of ee own house; but it was not upon her fy » count (for indeed she was well sng ™ pL _ any where) so much as that of her Puppies, ZESOP’S FABLES. 19 were yet so weak, that she was afraid they would not be able to follow her; and, if she would but be so good as to let her stay a fortnight longer, she would take it for the greatest obligation in- the world. The other Bitch was so good-natured and compassionate as to comply with this request too ; but at the expiration of the term, came and told her positively that she must turn out, for she could not possibly let her be there a day longer. Must turn out—says the other; we ‘will see that ; for I promise you, unless you can beat me and my whole litter of Whelps, you are never like to have any thing more to do here. | THE APPLICATION. Possession is eleven points of the law ; and though, where equity flourishes, and property is duly secured, the twelfth point, I mean that of right, is better than the other eleven; yet this fable may serve as a very good lesson of caution to us, never to let any thing we value go out of our possession without very good security. Wise and good-natured men will give liberally and judiciously what they can spare; but to lend, where there is a probability of our being de- frauded by the borrower, is the part of a too easy and blameable credulity. : ZESOP’S_FABLES. FABLE XI. The proud FROG =z = = - ’ Jk RN 4 \ 427} BN gy AER ANY Suh rin Tt if Z Vif = 5 = Ax Ox, grazing in a meadow, chanced to set his foot among a parcel of young frogs, and trod one of them to death. The rest informed their mother when she came home, what had happened ; telling her, that the beast which did it was the hugest creature that they ever saw in their lives. What, was it so big? says the old Frog, swelling and blowing up her speckled belly to a great de- gree. Oh! bigger by a vast deal, say they. And so big ? says she, straining herself yet more. Indeed, Mamma, say they, if you were to burst yourself, ou would never be so big. She strove yet again, and burst herself indeed. THE APPLICATION. Whenever a man endeavours to live equal with one of a greater fortune than himself, he is sure to share a like fate with the frog in the fable. How many vain people, of moderate easy circumstances, burst and come \ ESOP’S FABLES. to nothing, by vying with those whose esta ample than their own! Sir Changeling re possessed of a very considerable estate, devolved to him by the death of an uncle, who had adopted him his heir. He had a false taste of happiness; and, without the least economy, trusting to the sufficiency of his vast revenue, was resolved to be outdone by nobody in showish grandeur and expensive living. He gave five thousand pounds for a piece of ground in the countr to set a house upon; the building and furniture oF which cost fifty thousand more; and his gardens were proportionably magnificent. Besides which, he thought himself under a necessity of buying out two or oh tenements which stood in his neighbourhood, that he might have elbow-room enough. All this he could very well bear, and still might have been ha had it not have been for an unfortunate view LL he one day happened to take of my Lord Castle- builder’s gardens, which consisted of twenty acres whereas his own were not above twelve. From that time he grew pensive ; and before the ensuing winte gave five-and-thirty years purchase for a dozen Roce more, to enlarge his gardens, built a couple of exor bitant green-houses, and a large pavilion at the farther end of a terrace-walk: the bare repairs and superinten- dances of all which called for the remaining part of his income. He is mortgaged pretty deep, and pays no- body: but being a privileged person, resides altogether at a private cheap lodging in the city of Westminster. ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XII. The Fox and the STORK. Ip TET J ARE Gi Sih (i { b } TW OTR Vi oH Hi f Hi iif i 1 i ‘3 Wf ¥ (7 Th ¥ i It va : ras A SH 2 A TR ps EG NL Xi 7, HN . ly Te Zh list PRC WP CORR IHL LL VALLE MTS el, EEE : Ee S&P AP = Sn Sickie da a ( | I " =~ Hil SE — att EE il i Din I Sh Tar Fox invited the Stork to dinner; and, be- ing disposed to divert himself at the expense of his guest, provided nothing for the entertain- ment but a soup, in a wide shallow dish. This hime self could lap up with a great deal of ease, but the Stork, who could but just dip in the point of his Yori bill, was not a bit the better all the while: how ever, in a few days after, he returned the compli- ment, and invited the Fox; but suffered nothing to be brought to table but some minced meat in a glass jar; the neck of which was so deep and su narrow, that, though the Stork, with his long bill made a shift to fill his belly, all that the Tox, who was very hungry, could do, was to lick the brims, as the Stork slabbered them with his eating. Reynard was heartily vexed at first: but when he came to take his leave, he owned ingenuously, that he had been used as he deserved; and that he had no rea- son to take any treatment ill, of which himself had set the example. something to feed them ¢ with, h Fox’s Cub, that lay basking itself ond ni sun ESOP’S FABLES. 23 pa ~ THE APPLICATION ’ ‘ont any body; and who exdtoise hic wi "JY evertakesthelj ozs Waukis witty talents that way, must = albus to a oh po With reprisals, Indeed, if all sien In their own coin, w ; Wao same frank com, would take it wj Sams h Jena the Fox did, the matter a dhe warned hot 8 ars [00 apt, when the Jest come : Spe) ne upon ourselves, to think that in i joke 3 0 psn, which we looked upon as prett and fa Sale we Sak 1d Samo was our own. The a of re Suinty fae 1 bo goasty » 0 proper to be our model HS Sr may more i this res . Sy particularly be se i Hr en, oeass people seldom es, aon and yet “If tog y these little ludicrous im sitions. a ey were to ask themselves Bw ions, ma » that another's using them j san, anner would be very displeasing, the same FABLE XIII. Hat) 1] | i ai an and uncj- — The EacLE and the Fox. ee Zr EF Tn > Pl Ax E i N Eagle that had young ores, looking ol for Spy a TCE PE Yr . 2 i - a — an ah A A Slee, Wt te 24 ESOP’S FABLES. She made a stoop, and trussed it immediately ; but before she had carried it quite off, the old Fox com-~ ing home, implored her with tears in her eyes, to spare her cub, and pity the distress of a poor fond mother, who should think no affliction so great as that of losing her child. The Eagle, whose nest was up in a very high tree, thought herself secure Son from all projects of revenge, and so bore away the cub to her young ones, -without showing any regard to the supplication of the Fox. But that subtle creature, Br ty incensed at this outrageous barbari- ty, ran to an altar, where some country people had been sacrificing a kid in the open fields, and catch- ing up a firebrand in her mouth, made towards the tree where the Eagles nest was, with a resolution of revenge. She had scarce ascended the first branches, when the Eagle, terrified with the ap- proaching ruin of herself and family, begged of the Fox to desist, and with much submission, returned her the cub again, safe and sound. THE APPLICATION. This fable is a warning to us not to deal hardly or injuriously by any body. The consideration of our be- ingina high condition of life, and those we hurt far be- low us, will plead little or no excuse for us in this case. For there is scarce a creature of so despicable a rank, but is capable of avenging itself some way, and at some time or other. When great men happen to be wicked, how little scruple do they make of oppressing their poor neighbours ! they are perched upon a lofty station, and have built their nest on high; and, having out- grown all feelings of humanity, are insensible of any pangs of remorse. The widow's tears, the orphan’s cries, and the curses of the miserable, like javelins thrown by the hand of a feeble old man, fall by the way, and never reach their heart. But let such a one, in the midst of his flagrant injustice, remember, how easy a matter it is, notwithstanding his superior dis- meet with a B And so, a brother, bristled up to 10 hear hin u ESOP’S FABLES. stance, for the mean 25 i est vassal to be reven i terness of an affliction, even af is wantin i want ug, Tay anidiate the poorest spirit with resol ar 1g hoes and when once that fury is tho : oly nal ed, we know not what she will ve € 1s lulled to rest again. The most Poel $ fu tyrants iti his anol Prevent a resolved assassination ; ther oS consume ifferent ways for any private man to de Ine business) ¥ 10 1s heartily disposed to it, and ll- g y 1s appetite for revenge, at the ADs of his life. "An old palace of a prince, and it is 1 fh orcrnd in the s in th v weak fool to destroy the children of Dy anh FABLE XIV. 7%e Boar and the Ass. A Hifjine., lt HHI rp Ey ee czar NAHE ITTLE scoundrel of an Ass oar, had a mind to be wt happening to ch upon him : says he, J Rumble Aen oar, somewhat nett] him, and told hi tter so impudent C at his familiar m, he was su od an untruth, and was ASOP'S TABLES. just’ going w his hoble resentment, by giving fast Se ri hy» bY a but, wisely sifting his oy ihe contented himself" with oily saying; Go, - ou sorry:beast ! 17 could be amply and cas J revenge ; d--of you, but-I' don’t care to foul my tus with the blood of so base a’creature. CPHE APPLICATION. Foss " od » ambitious of being thought eign EI aati, m attempting to vd ye fo such “This is not the first Ass, who, SN FA, rebuke {rom one superior to hed after ® irae , and merit, has continued his owlwad wi I ; = the last degree of .offence. i But such a is so far from raising himself the oust CR by his ludicrous ven, ey he la gu a a nd of their own : ma Civ Shia Sa, or stature, vould pe ashamed toi encounter either of them. But, Sein 5 i . ell this, and though the Boar in the fabl To example to men of generous brave Spits | Bio give Hhkraselyes gp vo Po, Rg et behaviour of n . thewghits TT oh; because their hands Poa bad honoured by the tincture of a base may : A human creatures, the correction 0 au Puss Yes NT tie unseasonably witty, may be pu a Bed ith justness and propriety enough, provide thelr, with ood humour. The blood of a coward, er lly 2 ne would stain the character of : Bs Shige ee 3 when we chastise such: wretches, 1 . done, if possible, in the utmost calmness of temper.. ? i eat It takes off something from the Teputaion of 2 great soul, when we see it is,in the ‘power 0 and unsettle it. ESOP’S ‘FABLES. - FABLE XV. The Frogs and the fightisie Burris. Alem * \ rs ING | ne “i LA SY Ae iii! SLA ER | | | Di nse A Troe, one day, peeping out of the lake, and looking about him, saw two Bulls fighting at some distance off in the meadow, and, calling to one of his acquaintance, Look, says he, what dreadful work is yonder! Tear Sirs, ‘what will be- come of us? Why, pray thee, says the other, do not frighten yourself so about nothin ; how ean their quarrels affect us They are of a different kind and way of living, and are at present only : con. tending which shall be master of the herd. That is true, replies the frst, their quality and - station in life is, to all appearance, different enough from ours: but, as one of them will certainly get the better, he that is worsted, being beat out of the meadow, will take refuge here in the marshes, and may possibly tread out the guts of some of us: so you sce, we are more nearly concerned in this dis- pute of theirs than at first you were aware of. c 2 27 ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. This poor timorous frog had just reason for its fears and suspicions; it being hardly possible for great peo- ple to fall out, without involving many below them in the same fate : nay, whatever becomes of the former, the latter are sure to suffer: those may be only playing the fool, while these really smart for it. It is of no small importance to the honest, quiet part of mankind, who desire nothing so much as to see peace and virtue flourish, to enter seriously and im- partially into the consideration. of this point: for, as significant as the quarrels of the great may sometimes be, yet they are nothing without their espousing and supporting them, one way or other. What is it that occasions parties, but the ambitious or avaricious spirit of men in eminent stations, who want to engross all power in their own hands? Upon this they foment divisions, and form factions, and excite animosities between well-meaning, but undiscerning people, who little think that the great aim of their leaders is no more than the advancement of their private self-interest. The good of the public is always pretended upon such occasions, and may sometimes happen to be tacked to their own; but then it is purely accidental, and never was originally intended. One knows not what remedy to prescribe against so epidemical and frequent a ma- lady, but only that every man who has sense enough to discern the pitiful private views that attend most of the differences between the great ones, instead of aid= ing or abetting either party, would, with an honest courage, heartily and openly oppose both. ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XVI. The Kite and the Picroxs. ss === ] 1} a pr 1h — = A — 2 + 7 = ORY =Z 1 7} :. ~~ / : : h f ; 3 ( == { : cx =. ] 3 FS ~ Pe NES — | WK -A (1 Sic HEH = eta ND: - : EC in AA x33 = i F a | : RD t - 158 1] | ] i> A HH ! , HH JL Mu... - atti ‘ om tH engin HH A Kite, wh o had kept sailing in the ai many days near a Ava a pl yun : a several Pigeons, but all to no urpose (for they were too nimble for him), at last had re- Suse to Sttatagen, and took his opportunity one oe y ors) e a declaration to them, in which he gos, orth his own just and good intentions, who ad nothing more at heart than the defence and piotastion of the Pigeons in their ancient rights and 1berties ; and how concerned he was at their cial 4 , Jealousies ” a foreign invasion, espe- i eir unjust and unreasona icions/ himself, as if he intended, by ae of Pclaty of break in upon their constitution, and erect a ty- ranmicel government over them. To prevent al ql ie 2 and thoroughly to quiet their minds, he ha ght Proper to peopcse to them such terms of Bll and articles of peace, as might for “ever ent a good understanding- betwixt them: the 30 ESOP'S TABLES. principal of which was, that they should accept of him for their king, and invést him with all kingly privilege and prerogative over them. The poor simple Pigeons consented : the Kite took the corenation oath after a very solemn manner, on his part, and the Doves, the oaths of allegiance and fidelity, on theirs. But much time had not passed over their heads, before the good Kite pre- tended that it was part of his prerogative to devour a Pigeon whenever he pleased. And this he was not contented to do himself only, but instructed the rest of the royal family4an the same kingly arts of government. The Pigeons, reduced to this miserable condition, said, one to the other, Ah we deserve no better! Why did we let him come ? THE APPLICATION. What can this fable be applied to, but the exceeding blindness and stupidity of that part of mankind, who wantonly and ‘foolishly trust their native rights and li- berty without good security? Who often choose for guardians of their lives and fortunes; persons aban- doned to the most unseoeiable vices; and seldom bave any better excuse for sueli-an error in. politics, than, that they were ‘deceived in.their expeetation j:or never thoroughly knew the manncis of. their king, till Le had got:them entircly.in his power: = Which, however, is'notafiously false; for many, with the Doves in the fable, are so silly, that they would admit-of a Kite, rather. than be without a king, The truth is, we ought ot to incur the possibility of ‘being deceived dn so important a matter. as this; an unlimited power should not be trusted in the hands of any one, who is not endued ‘with a perfection more than human, x ASOP’S FABLES. 31 FABLE XVII. The Max and his two ¥ IVES. iy S. ¢ MTR, Is, eA a 3 Ui {Hi ii A Max, in times when polygamy w had two wives: one of which, Ry ais anemed, her best days, and was just, as it were, enterin; upon the declivity of life; but this, bemg an. artful woman, (she. entirely concesled by her . dressy » by which, and some other elegant qualities; she made a shift sometimes to engage Her husband's 'heass. The other was a beautiful young creature of se- venteen, whose charms; as yet inthe height éf bloom, and secure of “their own power, lad ib ‘occasion to ‘call in any artifice to their assistance. She made the good man as happy as he was ca Ppable of being, but was not; it seems, completely so herself: the grey hairs, mixed améne the black, upon her husbands head, gave her some. uneasi- ness, by proclaiming the. great disparity of th yeas: wherefore, under colaur, of adjusting ii combing his head, she would every .now and: thea be twitching the silver hairs with her. nippers i that, however matters were, he might still have as: few SHRED frm yaw : mb A PV eraser 32 ESOP’S FABLES. visible signs of an advanced age as possible: the dame, whose years were nearer to an equality with his own, esteemed those grey locks as the honours of his head, and could have wished they had all been such; she thought it gave him a venerable look ; at least, that it made her appear something younger than he: so that every time the honest man’s head fell into ber hands, she took as much pains to extirpate the black hairs, as the other had done to demolish the grey. They neither of them knew of the: other's design; but each continuing her project with repeated industry, the poor man, who thought their desire to oblige put them upon this extraordinary officiousness in dressing his head, found “himself, in a short time, without any hair at all. THE APPLICATION. Pheedrus, whose sense I have generally followed in every fable of which he has made a version, in his ap- plication of this; is a little severe upon the ladies; and tells us, that by this example we may see, the men are sure to be losers by the women; as well when they are the objects of their love; as while they lie under their displeasure. - All that I shall add to what he has said, is to observe, that many women may unfortu- nately, out of a pure effect of complaisance, do a thou- sand disagreeable things to their husbands. They, whose love is tempered with a tolerable share of good sense, will be sure to have no separate views of their own, nor do any thing more immediately relating to their husband, without consulting him first. In a mar- ried state, one party should inform themselves cer- tainly, and not be guessing and presuming what will please the other; and if a wife uses her husband like a friend only, the least she can do, is first to commu- micate tp him all the important enterprises she under- takes ; and especially those which she intends should be for his honour and advantage. /ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XVIII. The Sta6 in the Ox-STALL. A Stic, roused out of his thick covert in the midst ef the forest, and driven hard by the hounds, made towards a farm-house, and seein the door of an ox-stall open, entered therein, and hid himself under a heap of straw. One of the oxen, turning his head about, asked hin what he meant by venturing himself in such a place as that was, where he was sure to meet with his doom! Ah! says the Stag, if you will but be so good as to fa- vour me with your concealment, I hope I shall do well enough ; I intend to make off again the first opportumty. Well, he staid there till towards night; in came the ox-man with a bundle of fodder, and never saw him. In short, all the servants of the farm came and went, and not a soul of them smelt any thing of the matter. Nay, the bailiff himself came, according to form, and looked in, but walked away, no wiser than the rest.- Upon this, the Stag, ready to jump out of his skin for Joy, began to return thanks to the good-natured cH 34 AZSOP’S FABLES. Oxen, protesting that they were the most obliging poeple he had ever met with in his life. After he tad done his compliments, one of them answered him gravely: Indeed we desire nothing mere than to have it in our power to contribute to vour es- cape ; but there is a eertain person you little think of, who has a hundred eyes: if he should happen to come, 1 would not give this straw for your life. In the interim, home comes the master himself, from a neighbour's, where he had been invited to dinner: and, because he had observed the cattle ‘to look but scurvily of late, he went up to the rack, and asked why, they did not give them more fodder; then, castimg his eyes downward, Hey-day! says he, why'so sparmg of your litter? pray scatter a httle more here. Aud these cobwehs— But 1 bave spoken so often, hat unless I do it myself— Thus, as he went on, prying into every thing, he chaneed to look where the Stags horns lay sticking out of the straw; upon which he raised a hue-and- ery, called all his people about him, killed the poor Stag, and made a prize of him. : THE APPLICATION. The moral of this fable is, that nobody loaks after a man’s affairs so. well as be himself. Servants, ‘heing but hirelings, seldom have the true intevest of thew mas tor at heart, but let things run on ino negligent ecustant disorder; aud this generally, not so much for - want of capacity as honesty. Their heads are taken up with the cultivation of their own private interest; for the service and promotion of which, that of their master is postponed, and often gutively neglected. Few families are: redueed to poverty ond distress rirerely by their own extravagance and indulgence m luxury ; the inattention of servants swells every article of expence in dorrestic economy; and the retinue of groat men, instead of exerting their industry to con- ESOP'S FABLES. duce as far as possible to the increase of theirmaster’s wealth, commonly exercise no otlier office than that of locusts and caterpillars, to consume and devon it. FABEY. XIX. T%e Dou and the WorLr.* AEE i [ge Sess Di Hill rm - mh Fis $ if 1 ’ - * Dig) Hi i tii i ¥ E wn ; | i And, Hi cy ~ — own, J) ar Eo er Dy Sgr DN pg, a EIT J :ans hungiy, haltstarved Wolf happened, ose moon-shiny wight, to meet” with a jelly, plump, well-fed Mastiff’; and, after the first com- pliments were passed, says the Wolf, You look extremely well: T protest I. think I never saw a more graceful, comely person; but how comes. it about, T heseech you. that you should live so much better than IZ 1 way say, without vanity, that I venture fifty thnes more than you de; and: yet I am almost ready to perish with hunger. ‘The Dog answered very bluntly, Wily, you may live as. well, if you will:de the sac for it that I de. Indeedt What is that 7” says he: Why, says the Dog, enly te ard the house a-nights, and keep it from thiegeg. With all wry heéast, replies the Welfs for-at 3 36 ZESOP’S FABLES. sent I have but a sorry time of it; and I think to change my hard lodging in the woods, where I en- dure rain, frost, and snow, for a warm roof over my head : and a belly full of good victuals will be no bad bargain. True, says the Dog; therefore you have nothing more io do than to follow me. Now, as they were jogging on together the Wolf spied a crease in the Dog's neck, and, having a strange curiosity, could not forbear asking him what it meant! Pugh! nothing, says the Dog. Nay, but pray, says the Wolf. Why, says the Dog, if you must know, I am tied up in the day-time, because I am a little fierce, for fear I should bite ople, and am only let loose a-nights. But this 1s done with a design to make me gleep a-days, more * than any thing else, and that I may watch the bet- ter in the night-time ; for as soon as ever the twi- light appears, out I am turned, and may go where I please. Then my master brings me plates of bones from the table with his own hands; and, whatever scraps are left by any of the family, all fall to my share; for you must know [ am a fa- vourite with every body. So you see how you are to live.—Come, come along; what is the matter with you? No, replied the Wolf, I beg your par- don; keep your happiness all to yourself. Liberty is the word with me; and I would not be a king upon the terms you mention. THE APPLICATION. The lowest condition of life, with freedom attending it, as better than the most exalted station under a restraint. ZEsop and Pheedrus, who had both felt the bitter effects of slavery, though the latter of them had the good for- gune to have the mildest prince that ever was for his mas- ger, cannot forbear taking all opportunities to express their great abhorrence of servitude, and their passion ESOP’S FABLES. for liberty, upon any terms whatsoever. Indeed a state of slavery, with whatever seeming grandeur and happi- ness it may be attended, is yet so precarious a thing, that he must want sense, honour, courage, and all man- ner of virtue, who can endure to prefer itin his choice. A man who has so little honour as to bear to be a slave, when it is in his power to prevent or redress it, would make no scruple to cut the throats of his fellow- creatures, or to do any wickedness that the wanton unbridled will of his tyrannical master could suggest. FABLE XX. The Lams brought up by a Goar. ell oy I i A WoLr meeting a Lamb one day, in company with a Goat; Child, says he, you are mistaken, this is none of your mother, she is yonder (pointing to a flock of sheep at a distance). It may be so, says the Lamb ; the person that happened to conceive me, and afterwards bore me a few months in her belly, because she could not help it, ‘and then drope me, she did not care where, and left me to the 28 & BSOP'S FABLES. wide world, is, I suppose, what you call my mother; but T look upon this charitable Goat as such, that took compassion on me in my poor, helpless, destitute condition, and gave me sucks sparing it out of the mouths of her own Kids, rather than I should want it. © But sure, says he, you have a greater regard for her that gave you life, than for any body else. She gave me Te ! © I deny that. She, that could not so ‘much as tell whether I should be black or white, had a great hand in giving me life to be sure; but, sup- posing it were so, I am mightly obliged to her truly for contriving to let me be of tlie male kind, so that 1 goevery day in danger of the butcher. W hat reason then have I to have a greater regard for one to whom I am so little indebted for any part of my being, than for those from whgm I have received all the Te and kindpess” which have hithérto supported me in life. THE APPLICATICN. It is they whose goodness makes them our pavents, that properly claim cur filial respect from us, and not those who are such only out of necessity. The duties between parents and their children are relative and irc- ciprocal. By all laws, natural as well as cil, it is expected that the pavents.should cherish and provide sor the child, till it is able to shift for itself; and that the child, with a mutual tenderness, should depend the parent-for its sustenance, apd yicld i agea- sonable obedience. Yet, thuough the depravity - of haman nature, we very often sec these laws violated, and the relations before-mentioned treating one ano- ther with @s much virulence as encmies of different coantries. are capable of. ‘Through ‘the natural im- patience and protervity of youth, we observe the first opcasion for any animosity mest frequently arising foun their sides but, howevery- theve are not. wanding ESOP’'S FABLES. 3 examples. of undutanl parents : and, when a father, using-a son ill, and denying him such RID Kostas such, an allowance as his. circumstances can well afford, gives him occasion to. withdraw his respect from him, to urge his begetting of him as the sole. obligation to duty, is talking like a silly, unthinking dotard., Mutual benevolence must be kept up between relations, as well as friends; for, without this cement, whatever you please to call the building, itis only a castle in ‘the air, a thing to be talked of, without the least reality. FABLE XXI. The Peacock’s Complaint. I ete . rs vam —— Mert srerrso es iit Irn See aT EE —— amen net : Fyre saa ry = - tier rrasTaAre severssine Pines . ease Se = pas ts TI 3 42 : of fh ait ou eres and | ——— mag, 2 Tur Peacock presented a memorial to Juno, im- porting, how hardly he thought he was used, in not having so good a voice as the Nightingale; how that pretty animal was agreeable to every ear that heard it, while he was laughed at for his ugly screaming noise, ifhe did but open his mouth. The Goddess, concerned at the uneasiness of her fa- vourite bird, answered him very kindly to this pur- pose: If the Nightingale is blest with a fine voice, kia ams si i a iB oN. om, : - din EERE LR rh et wy pg ‘ “ e i oe i aS ie ptiant “ al - mit sy 40 ESOP’'S FABLES. you have the advantage in point of beauty and large- ness of person. Ah! says he, but what avails my silent unmeaning beauty, when I am so far excelled in voice? The Goddess dismissed him, bidding him consider, that the properties of every creature were appointed by the decree of fate ; to him beauty ; strength to the Eagle; to the Nightingale a voice of melody ; the faculty of speech to the Parrot ; and to the Dove innocence. - That each of these was contented with his own peculiar quality : and, unless he had a mind to be miserable, he must learn to be so too. 2 THE APPLICATION. Since all things (as Juno says) are fixed by the eternal and unalterable decree of Fate, how absurd it is to hear people complaining and tormenting them- selves for that which it is impossible ever to obtain? They who are ambitious of having more good qualities, since that is impracticable, should spare no pains to cultivate and recommend those they have ; .which, a sourness and peevishness of temper, instead of im- proving, will certainly lessen and impair, whether they are of the mind or body. If we had all the desirable properties in the world, we could be no more than easy and contented with them; and if a man, by a right way of thinking, can reconcile himself to his own con- dition, whatever it be, he will fall little short of the most complete state that mortals ever enjoyed. ZSOP’'S FABLES. FABLE XXII. The Fox and the GRAPES. | 8 EAR 42 MOET BoA, 27 A Loh) Ar A Fox, very hungry, chanced to come into a vineyard, where there hung branches of charming ri Grapes ; but nailed up to a trellis so high, that he leaped till he quite tired himself, without being able to reach one of them. At last, Let who will take them ! says he; they are but green and sour; so T’ll even let them alone. THE APPLICATION. This fable is a good reprimand to a parcel of vain coxcombs in the world, who, because they would never be thought to be disappointed in any of their pursuits, pretend a dislike to every thing which they cannot ob- tain. There is a strange propensity in mankind to this temper, and there are numbers of grumbling malcon= tents in every different faculty and sect in life. The discarded statesman, considering the corruption of the times, would not- have any hand in the administration of affairs for all the world. The country ’squire damus a a 42 ZASOP’S FABLES. a court life, and would not go cringing and creeping to a drawing-room for the best place the king has in his disposal. A young fellow being asked how he liked a celebrated beauty, by whom all the world knew he was despised, answered, she had a stinking breath. How insufferable is the pride of this poor creature, man ! who would stoop to the basest, vilest, actions, rather than be thought not able to do any thing. For what is more base and vile than lying ? And when do we lie more notoriously, than when we disparage and find fault with a thing for no other reason but because it is out of our power. : 4 > $ A Vier entering a smith’s shop, looked up and down for something to eat 3 and, seelig, 8 File, fell to gnawing it as.greedily as could, he. The file told. him, very gruflly, "That he had. best, be .quigt: and let him alene; for he: would get very ASOP’S FABLES. 43 little by nibbling ‘at one who, upon. oscasion, could bite iron and steel. : THE APPLICATION. By this fable we are cautioned to consider w hat any person 18, before we make aw attack upon him, afler any manner whatsoever : - particularly how we let our tongues slip in censuring the actions of those who are, in the opinion of the world, not only of an unquestioned reputation, so that nebody will believe what we insinu- ate agamst them; but of such an influence, upon ac- count of their own veracity, that the least word from them would ruin our credit to all intents and purposes. If wit be the case, and we have a satirieal vein, whieh, at certain periods must have a flow, let us be cautious at whom we level it; for, if the person's understand- ing be of better proof than our own, all our ingenious sallies, like liquor squirted against the wind, will recoil back upon our own faces, and make us the ridicule of every spectator. This fable, besides, is notan impr emblem of envy; which, rathersthan not: bite at all, will fill foul where it can hurt nothing: bus itselfc +» id rE *rASOP’S FABLES. ] FABLE XXIV. The Fox and the GoAr. I a SO UY 7 RR ET Nel Ill e ! . i Ly = I i hi N i | Lo Ii i » UIs F Mh LAD A Fox having tumbled by chance into a well, had been casting about a long while, to no purpose, how he should get out again; when, at last, a Goat came to the place, and wanting to drink, asked Rey- nard, Whether the water was good. Good! says he, ay, so sweet, that I am afraid I have surfeited myself, I have drank so .abundantly. The Goat, upon this, without any more ado, leapt in; and the Fox, taking the advantage of his horns, by the as- sistance of them, as nimbly leapt out, leaving the peoe Goat at the bottom of the well, to shift for imself. THE APPLICATION. The doctrine taught us by this fable is no more than this, that we ought to consider who it is that advises us, before we follow the advice. For, however plausi- ble the counsel may seem, if the person that gives it is a crafty knave, we may be assured that he intends to serve himself in it, more than us, if not to erect some- thing to his own advantage out of our ruin. ZAZSOP’S FABLES. The little, poor, country attorney, ready to perish, and sunk to the lowest depths of poverty, for want of employment, by such arts as these, draws the ‘squire, his neighbour, into the gulph of the law ; till, laying hold on the branches of his revenue, he lifts himself out of obscurity, and leaves the other immured in the bottom of a mortgage. FABLE XXV. The CouNTRYyMAN and the SNAKE. A VILLAGER, in a frosty, snowy winter, found a Snake under a hedge, ‘almost dead with cold. He could not help having compassion for the poor crea- ture, so brought it home, and laid it upon the hearth near the fire; but it had not lain there long, before (being revived with the heat) it began to erect itself, and fly at his wife and children, filling the whole cottage with dreadful hissings. The Countryman hearing an outery, and perceiving what the matter was, : catched 3s matteck, and soon dispatched him, u braiding him at the same time in these words: Is 46. ASOP’S ‘FABLES. this, vile wretch, the reward you make to him that saved your life? Die, as you deserve, but a single death is too good for you. THE APPLICATION. It is the nature of ingrates to return evil for good ; and the moralists in allages have incessantly declaimed against the enormity of this crime, concluding that they who are capable of hurting their benefactors, are not fit to live in a community; being such, as the na- tural ties of parent, friend, or country, are too weak to restrain within the bounds of society. Indeed, the sin of ingratitude is so detestable, that, as none but the most inhaman temper can be guilty of it, so, in writing to men, there is no occasion to use many words, either in exposing the vice itself, or dissuading people from the commission of it. Therefore it is not likely that a person of /Esop’s sagacity would have compiled this fable, without having something else in view, besides this trite and obvious subject. He certainly intended to put us in mind, that as none but a poor silly clown would go to take up a Snake and cherishit, so we shall be very negligent and ill-advised, if, in doing good offices, we do not take care to bestow our benevolence upon proper objects. It was not at allunnatural in the Snake to hiss, and brandish his tongue, and fly at the first that came near him; as soon at the person that savdd his life as any other; indeed more likely, because nebody else had so much to do with him. 'Noris it strange at any time to see a reprobate fool throwing his poisonous language about, and committing his extrava- gancies, against those, more especially, who are so.in- advertent as to concern themselves: with bim. The Snake and the reprobate will not-appear extraordinary in their malevolence: but the sensible part of mankind cannot help thinking those guilty of great indiscretion, who receive either of them into their protection. ASOP’S FABLES. 47 FABLE XXVI. The MouNTAIN ww LABOUR. Ep fi LipD i ERR re Fpl ade hit Al mm a We > Vv —— al ih Ii . f i HH ih th crn mm] ail lo! tH Tue Mountains were said to be e in labo uttered most dreadful groans. People 4 a gether, far and near, to see what birth would be 0 duced ; and, after they had waited a consid. time 1n expectation, out crept a Mouse, ee THE APPLICATION. Great cry and little wool is th sense of which bears an exact proporti i : portion to this By which are exposed all those who promise ls ble. gated ing great, but come off with a production ridieuy- ously little, 1 rojectors of all kinds, who endeavourb artificial rumours to raise the expectations of wanking and then, by their mean performances, defeat and dis- appoint them, have, time out of mind, been lashed with the recital of this fable. How a isi 1s:1t to see an unpromising favourite ‘whom the capri of fortune has-placed at the helm of state, vice the ¢ English proverb : the greeably surprising AS MIA Gl 5 NIELSEN S50 oo RTI I ’ " H- i .: RSA aU WAIN 7 od pans ps TE — - —— | —_.;. § a . —_. - , - — wt CN A sh - i! + ARE y i o pg ; aed i a i gu — » i pom a i EE ————m op — / Vong oi " P—— i 1 og Rage yp . . dy I ” — — J a Er m3 ints ea. Sa <= N—— _—— — i — rn A A AUTIRNT e 48 ZSOP’S FABLES. ith justi integrity, instead of onwealth with justice and inte : Monin and embezzling the public asus Sea » ivate and wicked ends! And, on » Bon DE ncholy, how dreadful, or rather howexaspe. i ight is it, to behold one, ing and provoking a sight isit, piss Joy ATG, for liberty 2] J pple goo i ople’s expectations of him : re ci De he Le got into power, exerting his Don art and cunning to ruin and enslave his Conniry : Th sanguine hopes of all those that wished we 9 Ho and flattered Shensilyet vb a Rn : - of the c - i t opposed the well-being of th ae, smoke, and are lost in a dark, ’ gloomy, uncomfortable prospect. FABLE XXVIII. The ANT and the FLy. em | Hs . fii | == oa 1 rf fi 1 + i i i ier i i; Ladd Oi ag he day there happened some words between t ia te Fly i precedency, and the poy was argued with great warmth and eagerness on sides. Says the Fly, It is well known what my pre- A£SOP’S FABLES. 43 tensions arc, and how justly they are grounded ; there 1s never a sacrifice that is offered, but I always taste of the entrails, even before the Gods them- selves. I have one of the uppermost seats at church, and frequent the altar as often as any body : I have a free admission at court ; and can never want the king's ear, for I sometimes st upon his shoulders. There is not a maid of honour, or handsome young creature comes in my way, but, if I like her, I settle betwixt her balmy lips. And then I eat and drink the best of every thing, with- out having any occasion to work for my living. What is there that such country pusses as you en- Joy, to be compared with a life like this ? The Ant, who by this time had composed herself, replied, with a great deal of temper, and no less severity : indeed, to be a guest at the entertainment of the Gods, is a very great honour, if one is invited ; but T should not care to be a disagreeable intruder an where. You talk of the king and the court, and the fine ladies there with great familiarity ; but as I have been getting in my harvest in summer, I have seen a certain, person, under the town-walls, mak- ing a hearty meal upon something that is not so proper to be mentioned. As to your frequenting the altars, you are in the right to take sanctuar where you are like to meet with the least disturb- ance: but I have known people before now run to altars, and call it devotion, when they have been shut out of all good company, and had no where else to go. You don’t work for your living, you say, true: therefore when you have played away the summer, and winter comes, you have nothing to live upon: and, while you are starving with cold and hunger, I have a good warm house over my head, and plenty of provisions about me, J 4 D ASOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. This fable points out to us the different characters of those that recommend themselves in vain glorious ways by false and borrowed lights ; and of those whose real merit procures them a good esteem wherever they go. Poverty and folly having, at the same time, possession of any one man, cannet fail of making him an object of pity, if not of contempt; but, when an empty conceited pride happens to be joined with them, they render the creature in whom they meet, at the same time despicable and ridiculous. One who often attends at court, not be- cause he has a place, but because he has not, should not value himself upon his condition. They who go to church out of vanity and curiosity, and not for pure de- votion, should not value themselves upon their religion, for it is not worth a straw. They who eat at a three- penny ordinary, and sometimes not so well, should not boast either of their dinner or company. In short, no- body is a better gentleman than he whose own honest industry supplies him with plenty of all necessaries; who is so well acquainted with honour, a. never to say or do a mean and unjust thing; and who despises an idle scoundrel, but knows how to esteem men of his own principles. Such a one is a person of the first quality, though he has never a title, and ought to take place of every man who is not so good as himself. ASOP’S FABLES) FABLY, XXVIII. The Op Hounbp. gE i) hi = SS =r i ' J Sav E24 a === 4m i We y 1} V Co 3 : 5 Us OA Wp Fae \ i = J 40 Lait : 1 antiid OL sna ee ttoy il ee " iT 1 Jib, 3 i; ith Se fi Nie caf) i i NS Qh oF A A 4 ty Ey, a otf eli | He | i ) 1 i ’, + i a AN old Hound, who had been an excellent good one mn his time, and given his master great rt and satisfaction in many a chase, at last by No effect of years, became fecble and unserviceable However, being in the field one day, when the Sta : was almost run down, he happened to be the firs that came in with him, and seized him by one of his haunches ; but his decaved and broken teeth nos being able to keep their hold, the Deer escaped and threw him quite out.» Upon which, his Li being in a great passion, and going to strike hice, the honest old creature is said to have barked out this apology . Ah! do not strike your poor old ser- vant; 1t 1s not my heart and inclination, but m strength and speed that fail me. If what I now am displeases, pray don’t forget what I have been. p 2 A IR a AL WE RN i ON wu SET bh RE §2 ESOP'S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. This fable may serve to give to us a general view of the ingratitude of the greatest part of mankind. Not- withstanding all the civility and complaisance that 1s ased among people, where there is a common inter- course of business, yet, let the main spring, the proba- bility of their being serviceable to each other, either in point of pleasure or profit, be but once broken, and farewell courtesy: so far. from continuing any regard in behalf of past favours, itis very well if they forbear doing any thing that is injurious. If the master had only ceased to caress and make much of the old Hound when he was past doing any service, it had not been very strange; but to treat a poor creature ill, not for a failure of inclination, but merely a defect of nature, must, notwithstanding the crowd of examples there are to countenance ii, be pronounced inhuman and unreasonable. There are two accounts upon which people that have been useful are frequently neglected. One when they are so decayed, either through age or some accident, that they are no longer able to do the services they have formerly done ; the other, when the occasion or emer- gency, which required such talents, no longer exists. Phadrus, who more than once complains of the bad consequences of age, makes no other application to this fable, than by telling his friend Philetus, with some re- gret, that he wrote it with a view, having, it seems, been repaid with neglect, or worse usage, for services done in his youth, to those who were then able to afford him a better recompence. ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE XXIX 7%e Sick Kirk. AE] HA Ct Iti | | il J cae | Ti hii il ; 1 een ay Sim se fli ! 3 CN Hil i 19 I ill NY =, —— x > MY QL BE eo - SO ci li A Kite had been sick a long time; and finding there were no hopes of recovery, begged of his mother to go to all the churches and religious houses in the country, to try what prayers and pro- mises would effect in his behalf. The old Kite replied, Indeed, dear son, I would willingly under- take any thing to save your life, but I have great reason to despair of doing you any service in the way you propose: for, with what face can I ask any thing of the Gods in favour of one, whose whole life has been a continual scene of rapine and injustice, and who has not scrupled, upon occasion, to rob the very altars themselves ? THE APPLICATION. The rehearsal of this fable almost unavoidably draws on attention to that very serious and nnportant poiat, the consideration of a death-bed repentance. Ard, RR EE CNAME aT I a, 54 ZESOP'S FABLES. to expose the absurdity of relying upon such a weak foundation, we need only ask the same question with the Kite in the fable : how can he that has offended the Gods all his lifc time, by doing acts of dishonour and jashics, expect that they should be pleased with him at last, for no other reason but because he fears he shall not be able to offend them any longer; when, in truth, such a repentance can signify. nothing but = confipation of his former impudence and folly : for sure no stupidity can exceed that of a'man who expects future judg- ment, and yet can bear to commit any piece of 1njus- tice, with a sense and deliberation of the fact. FABLE XXX. The Hares and the FRrRoGs. Ta mn G2 ES HE ma (TNH) REN ”e or a RM ~~ Hh) iI crs a lal ne pene ; Fea A 2) ok A bei - \ ! A y 7 vr RS ll 0 ; 2 A ite Ate - ¥ » ad . or wy N= } hie SOVCIT mas © _ac dah A — Sg aE ny 1 wld TEL ame acs: wt tT rd wh.) iii Aa regeiiie.. 1h. - eve se fn. 3 het Urox a great storm of wind that blew among the trees and bushes, and made a rustling among the leaves, the Hares (in a certain park where there hap- pened to be plenty of them) were so terribly frighted that they run like mad all over the place, resolving to seek out some retreat of more security, or to end their ASOP’S FABLES. unhappy days by doing violence to themselves. With this resolution they found an outlet where a pale had been broken down; and, bolting forth upon an adjoining common, had not run far before their course was stopped by that of a gentle brook, which glided across the way they intended to take. This was so grievous a disappointment, that they were not able to bear it, and they determined rather to throw themselves headlong into the water, let what would become of it, than lead a life so full of dangers and crosses. But upon their coming to the brink of the river, a parcel of Frogs, which were sitting there, frighted at their approach, leapt into the stream in great confusion, and dived to the very bottom for fear. Which a cunning old puss observing, called to the rest and said, Hold; have a care what ye do: here are other creatures, I per- ceive, which have their fears as well as us; don’t then let us fancy ourselves the most miserable of any upon earth; but rather, by their example, learn to bear patiently those inconveniences which our nature has thrown upon us. THE APPLICATION. This fabie is designed to show us how unreasonable many people are, for living in such continual fears and disquiets about the miserableness of their condition. There is hardly any state of life great enough to satis- fy the wishes of an ambitious man; and scarce any so mean, but may supply all the necessities of him that is moderate. But if people will be so unwise as to work themselves up to imaginary misfortunes, why do they grumble at nature and their stars, when their own per- verse minds are only to blame ? If we are to conclude ourselves unhappy byasmanydegreesas thereareothers greater than we, why then the greatest part of mankind must be miserable, in some degree at least. But, if 56 ASOP’S FABLES. they who repine at their own afflicted condition, would but reckon up how many more there are with whom they would not change cases, than those whose plea- sures they envy, they would certainly rise up better satisfied from such a calculation. But what shall we say to those who have a way of creating themselves panics from the rustling of the wind, the scratching of a Rat or Mouse behind the hangings, the fluttering of a Moth, or the motion of their own shadow by moonlight? Their whole life is as full of alarms as that of a Hare, and they never think themselves so happy as when, like the timorous folks in the fable, they meet with a set of creatures as fearful as themselves. FABLE XXXI. Z%e Lio~N and the Mouse. ¢) gn ed) Y Vg on 7 he ; > v) \ : o » ) Fh AOS Cr Sai SRE : A ib ih ST : , . NC # D | \ ” i wy u RAR | i ~ Nz a N \ I = , : 5 fa a , Yan. BLT il aE TET TTY as senses sey esen PIR 2 A Liox, faint with heat, and weary with hunt- ing, was laid down to take his reposc. under the spreading boughs of a thick shady oak. It hap- ned that while he slept, a company of scramb- ing Mice ran over his back, and waked him. Upon which, starting up, he clapped his paw upon one pr —— El ASOP’S FABLES. of them, and was just going to put it to death, when the little supplicant implored his merey in a very moving manner, begging him not te stain his noble character with the blood of so despicable and small a beast. The Lion, considering the matter, thought proper te do as he was desired, and immediately released his little trembling prisoner. Not long after, traversing the forest in pursuit of his prey, he chanced to run into the toils of the hunters; from whence, not able to disengage himself, he set up a most hideous and loud roar. The Mouse, hearing the voice, and knowing it to be the Lions, immediately repaired to the place, and bid him fear nothing, for that he was his friend. Then straight he fell to work, and, with his sharp little teeth, gnawing asunder the knots and fastenings of the toils, set the royal brute at liberty. THE APPLICATION. This fable givessus to understand, that there is no person in the world so little, but even the greatest may, at some time or other, stand in need of his assistance and consequently that itis good to use clemency, where there is any room for it, towards those who fall within our power. A generosity of this kind is a handsome virtue, and looks very graceful whenever it is exerted, if there were nothing else in it: but, as the lowest people in life may, upon occasion, have it in their power either to save or hurt us, that makes it our duty, in point of common interest, to behave ourselves with good nature and lenity towards all with whom we have to do. Then the gratitude of the Mouse, and his readi- ness, not only to repay, but even to exceed, the obliga< tion due to his benefactor, notwithstanding his little body, gives us the specimen of a great soul, whichis never so. much delighted as with an opportunity of showing how sensible it is of favour received, 1407 Dd ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE XXXII. The FiatAaL MARRIAGE. . int i BL a Fy | ijl i AF = NT =U vy Em wa . = eI oN ph 28 TN 0 sR : 17 SAY d # Ws iE 2 Bh 7 y ren IV Tue Lion aforesaid, touched with the grateful procedure of the Mouse, and, resolving mot to be outdone in generosity by any wild beast whatso- ever, desired his little deliverer to name his own terms, for that he might depend upon his comply- ing with any proposal he should make. I'lic Mouse, fired with ambition at this gracious offer ; did not so much consider what was proper for him to ask, as what was in the power of his prince to grant: and so, presumptuously demanded his princely daughter, the young Lioness, In marriage. The Lion consented: but, when he would have given the royal virgin into his possession, she, like a giddy thing as she was, not minding how she walked, by chance set her paw upon her spouse, who was coming to meet her, and crushed her little dear to pieces. AESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. This fable seems intended to show us, how miserable some people make themselves by a wrong choice, when they have all the good things in the world spread before them to choose out of. In short, if that one particular of judgment be wanting, it is not in the power of the greatest monarch upon earth, nor of the repeated smiles of fortune to make us happy. It is the want of pos- session of a good judgment, which oftentimes makes the prince a poor wretch, and the poor philosopher com- pletely easy. Now, the first and chief degree of judg- ment 1s, to know one’s self; to be able to make a tolerable estimate of one’s own capacity, so as not to speak or undertake any thing which may either injure or make us ridiculous: and yet (as wonderful as it is) there have been men of allowed good sense in parti- cular, and possessed of all desirable qualifications in general, to make life delightful and agreeable, who have unhappily contrived to match themselves with women of a genius and temper necessarily tending to blast their peace. This proceeds from some unac- countable blindness: but when wealthy plebians, of mean extraction, and unrefined education, as an equi- valent for their money, demand brides out of the nurse- ries of our peerage, their being despised, or at least overlooked, is so unaveidable, unless in extraordinary cases, that nothing but a false taste of glory could make them enter upon a scheme so inconsistent and unpromising. ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE XXXIII. Zhe Woop and the CLowN. I © re hi : i a oN i ih GY X \ : A YL, 7% | = Co Mi — Sass] PERSIST ITIL A Country fellow came one day into 2 wood, and looked about him with some concer upon which the Trees, with a curiosity natural ®o soins other creatures, asked him what he wanted. , © replied, that he only wanted a piece of oi to make a handle to his hatchet. Since t is Was all, it was voted unanimously that he ond ; a piece of good, sound, tough ash. But he “2 ° sooner received and fitted it for his purpose, 8 4" he began to lay about him unmeraifully, ga hack and hew without distinction, felling t $ mo. blest trees in all the forest. The Oak 1s 4 to have spoken thus: to the Beech, mn a low whasper, Brother, we must take it for our pains. THE APPLICATION. No people are more justly liable to suffer, than they who furnish their enemies with any kind of assistance ASOP’S FABLES. 61 It is generous to forgive; it is enjoined us by religion to love our enemies; but he that trusts an enemy, much more contributes to the strengthening and arm- ing of him, may also depend upon repenting him for his inadvertent benevolence: and has, moreover, this to add to his distress, that, when he might have prevented it, he brought his misfortunes upon himself by his own credulity. Any person in a community, by what name or title soever distinguished, who affects a power which may possibly hurt the people, is an enemy to that people, and therefore they ought not to trust him; for though he were ever so fully determined not to abuse such a power, yet he is so far a bad man, as he disturbs the people’s quiet, and makes them jealous and uneasy, by desiring to have it, or even retaining it, when it may prove mischievous. If we consult history, we shall find that the thing called prerogative has been claimed and contended for chiefly by those who never intended to make a good use of it; and as readily resigned and thrown up by just and wise princes, who had the true interest of their people at heart. How like senseless stocks do they act, who, by complimenting some ca- pricious mortal, from time to time, with parcels of pre- rogative, at last put it out of their power to defend and maintain themselves in their just and natural lie berty. A ITT To vp lin JESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XXXIV. 7Z%e Horst and the STAG. re 1 mma Tue Stag, with his sharp horns, got the better of the Horse, and drove him clear out of the pasture where they used to feed together. So the latter craved the assistance of man; and, in order to re- ceive the benefit of it, suffered Lim to put a bridle into his mouth and a saddle upon his back. By this way of proceeding, he entirely defeated his enemy : but was mightily disappointed. when, upon returning thauks and desiring to be dismissed, he received this answer: No; I never knew before how useful a drudge you were; now [ have found what I= are good for, you may depend upon it I will eep you to it. THE APPLICATION. As the foregoing fable was intended to caution us against consenting to any thing that might prejudice public liberty ; this may serve to keep us upon our AESOP’S FABLES. 63 u i . gust in He Pieservadion of that which is of a privat 8 1s the use and int . ‘ e bv Hor nterpretation give . ot ee: ihe best and most polite a ) 3 This, say F ter ering the fable, he applies it th at sy °F Ss he, 1s the cas ys . us : Poverty, wares wih Tt ean ie Vie dreading a wretch as : a able jewel, liberty : lik 2) rote as heis, he will always be subject it ’ like oS He sort or other, and be a slave for ever : 2 tyrant with ap spirit knew not how to be Corr hol oo erate competency, which he mich ented possessed independent of all the world Sau sare FABLE XXXV. fe Country Mouse and the City Vouse —— i il m AN honest, plain, s ib Se to thes on Te : use 1 Nise 3 he a. Having formerly been play: oR er, ¢ ey were old acquaintances Thien an 2 ogy for the visit. However % Be o ouse, he thought himself obliged to mours of it, in all respects, and to a 2 country Mouse, is hole one day a fine 64 ESOP’'S FABLES. reat a stranger of his guest as he possibly could. a order to this, he set before him a reserve of delicate grey pease and bacon, a dish of fine oatmeal, some parings of new cheese; and, to crown all with a dessert, a remnant of a charming mellow apple. In good manners, he forbore to eat any himself, lest the stranger should not have enough ; but, that he might seem to bear the other company, sat and nibbled a piece of wheaten straw, very busily. At last, says the spark of the town, Old croney, give me leave to be a little free with you; how can you bear to hve in this nasty, dirty, melancholy hole here, with nothing but woods, and meadows, and mountains, and rivulets about you? 1Do not you prefer the conversation of the world to the chirping of birds, and the splendor of a court to the rude aspect of an un- cultivated desert? Come, take my word for it, you will find it a change for the better. Never stand considering, but away this moment. Remember we arc not immortal, and therefore have no time to lose. Make sure of to-day, and spend it as agree- ably as you can, you know not what may happen to- morrow. In short, these, and such like arguments prevailed, and his country acquaintance was resolved to go to town that night. So they both set out upon their journey together, proposing to sneak in after the close of the evening. They did so: and about midnight, made their entry into a certain great house, where there had been an extraordinary entertainment the day before, and several tit-bits, which some of the servants had purloined, were hid under the seat of a window: the country-guest was immediately placed in the midst of a rich Persian carpet ; and now it was the courtier’s turn to entertain, who, indeed, acquitted himself in that capacity with 1 utmost readiness and address, changing the courses ee ASOP’S FABLES. 65 as elegantly, and tasting every thing first as judici ously as any clerk of a kitchen. The other a nd oye himself like a delighted epicure, tickled to he ast degree with this new turn of his affairs; ten, on a sudden, a noise of somebody openin the door, made them start from their seats, and J 2 confusion about the dining room. Our ORI ing se particular, was ready to die with fear at he pi: ing of a huge Mastiff or two, which opened 400s throats just about the same time, and made the Nias house echo. At last, recovering himself ell, says he, if this be your town-life, much good may you do with it: give me my poor quiet hole aga, with my homely, but comfortable grey pease. THE APPLICATION. wo Todarate fortune, with a quiet retirement in the gound oy, 33 a to he greatest affluence which ; with care and the pe 1 i and inseparable from the noise ety o. hi The practice of the generality of people of he Dua taste, it iste he owned, is directly against us in thi point; but, wren it is considered that this practice of theirs proceeds rather from a compliance wiih the fa shion of the times, than their own private thou his, the objection is of no force. Among the great ne | bers of men who have received a learned educatio ’ how few are there but either have their fortunes re tirely to make ; or at least, think they deserve to haw . and ought not to lose the opportunity of getting so - what more than their fathers have left them ! Th y town is the field of action for volunteers of this kind; and whatever fondness they may have for he country, yet they must stay till their circumstances will admit of a retreat thither. But sure there never was man yet, who lived in a constant return of trouble ion fatigue in town, as all men of businessdo in some degree or other, but has formed to himself some end of ne 66 ASOP’S FABLES. a sufficient competency, which may enable him to purchase a quiet possession in the country, where he may indulge his genius, and give up his old age to that easy smooth life, which, in the tempest of business, he had so often longed for. Can any thing argue more strongly for a country life, than to observe what a long course of labour people go through, and what difficul- ties they encounter to come at it? They look upon it, at a distance, like a kind of heaven, a place of rest and happiness ; and are pushing forward, through the rugged thorny cares of the world, to make their way towards it. If there are many; who, though born to plentiful fortunes, yet live most part of their time in the noise, the smoke, and hurry of the town ; we shall find, upon enquiry, that necessary indispensable busi- ness is the real or pretended plea which most of them have to make for it. The courtand the senate require the attendance of some : law-suits, and the proper di- rection of trade engage others: they who have a sprightly wit, and an elegant taste for conversation, will resort to the place which is frequented by people of the same turn, whatever aversion they may_other- wise have for it; and others, who have no such pre- tence, have yet this to say, that they follow the fashion. They who appear to have been men of the best sense amongst the ancients, always recommended the coun- try as the most proper scene for innocence, ease, and virtuous pleasure ; and, accordingly, lost no opportuni- ties of enjoying it : and men of the greatest distinction among the moderns have ever thought themselves most happy, when they could be decently spared from the employments which the excellency of their talents necessarily threw them into, to embrace the charming leisure of a country life. ASOP’S FABLES. 67 FABLE XXXVI. The Mousk and the WEasEL., — rH U Wii \ === 7 7 Rea a INVER i gh i Qian I =3 A LirrLE, starvelling, Mouse, had, with much pushing application, made his way through a small hole in a corner basket where he stuffed and crammed so plentifully that when he would have retired the way he came he found himself too plump, with all his endeavours, to accomplish it. A Weasel, who stood at some dis- tance, and had been diverting himself with beholding the vain efforts of the little fat thing, called to him and said : Harkee ! honest friend, if you have a mind to make your escape, there is but one way for it; contrive to grow as poor and as lean as you were when you entered, and then perhaps you may get off. thin- gutted rogue of a THE APPLICATION. They who, from a poor mean condition, insinuate themselves into a good estate, are not always the most happy. There is, many times, a quiet and content attending a low life, to which the rich man is an utter 68 ASOP’'S FABLES. stranger. Riches and cares are almost inseparable ; and whoever would cet rid of the one, must content himself to be divested of the other. He that hath been acquainted with the sweets of a life free from the in- cumbrance of wealth, and longs to enjoy them again, must strip himself of that incumbrance, if he ever means to attain his wishes. Some, from creeping-into the lowest stations of life, have, in process of time, filled the greatest places in it; and grown so bulky by pursuing their insatiate appetite after money, that when they would have re- tired, they found themselves too opulent and full to get off. There has been no expedient for them to creep out, till they were squeezed and reduced, in some mea- sure, to their primitive littleness. They that fill them- selves with that which is the property of others, should always be so served before they are suffered to escape. FABLE XXXVII. The Berry and the MEMBERS. — ¢ or S—— — __ - HLS =3 =) 2457 | “2 2 “4% i i “Zl Al SAN CaN ANA a -— - C— f — —— m——— = —— == — ——— a In foraner "days, when the Belly and the other parts of the body enjoyed the faculty of speech, and had separate views and designs of their own ; ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XXXIX. The Nurse and the WoLr. Le a | i 4 } | ST LGR i Ih Hi Hi] i {4 3 tll! i i ih 7 » wl (5 Hi 7 i} | thy Liisa atti aiadioe. I — tend EIEE A Nurse, who was endeavouring to quiet a froward bawling child, among other attempts, threatened to throw it out of doors to the Wolf, if it did not leave off crying. A Wolf, who chanced to be prowling near the door just at that time heard the expression, and believing the woman to be in earnest, waited a long while about the house in expectation of seeing her words made good. But at last, the child, wearied with its own im- portunities, fell asleep, and the poor Wolf was forced to return back to the woods empty and sup- perless. The Fox meeting him, and surprised to see. him going home so thin and disconsolate, asked him what the matter was, .and how he came to speed no better that night? Ah! do not ask me, says he, ‘I was so silly as to believe what the Nurse said, and have been disappointed. B & - A ent A Hh Rg ow ’ in - i "in — rt es wa —— er won v a ce Canta we MS. lost Co Rit EEF mp a Par ——— i | 1 i: db i | ih we ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. et this fable AH the moralists have agreed to Bier I ion to us never to trust a w oi q racoardy as a cautio Id have for giving so rough an papain Sey con t casy tobe imagined : for how oF Anon? precept, juno me women may be, 1t is WC ir truth and unstable Some ¥ have a greater regard for tru . there are Sepordl ” promise, than most men, There in wiva hey po short a compass to Express a d ue Soh 3 R0s Joop hn 3 ar of the ladies upon this ssn comm for a0 Ee much one is disposed to ou EW nor to show ow here is nothing bad which ca Lee them : and though th vith equal justice, be averred o said of them, Nanay. old not venture to give fem the OL Wr) re a precaution as the old my! Ces s quite sO abso u iA bole. but only to advise § oh | nn thoroughly of the matter, before they consider well and ’ trust any man ving FABLE XL. The ToRTOISE and the EAGLE. Tur Tortoise, he was confined to creep is condition, by which weary of hgh ground, and /AESOP’S FABLES. 75 being ambitious to have a prospect, and look about him, gave out, that if any bird would take him u mto the air, and show him the world, he would re- ward him with a discovery of many precious stones, which he knew were hidden in a certain place of the earth: the Eagle undertook to do as he desired ; and when he had performed his commission, de- manded the reward. = But finding the Tortoise could not make good his words, he stuck his talons into the softer parts of his body, and made him a sacrifice to. his revenge. THE APPLICATION. As men of honour ought to consider calmly how far the things which they promise may be in their power, before they venture to make promises upon this ae- count, because the non-performance of them will be apt to excite an uneasiness within themselves, and tarnish their reputation in the eyes of other people; so fools and cowards should be as little ras), in this respect as possible, lest their impudent forgeries draw upon them the resentment of those whom they disappoint, and that resentment make them undergo smart, but deserved chastisement. The man who js so stupid a knave as to make a lying promise where he js sure to be de- tected, receives the punishment of his folly unpitied by all that know him. ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE XLI. The Winp and the SUN. Se — iow P TSM aterrra a wr tut T ¥ Yr” " 2 fqisreseninaaniiini od WE ih rose betwixt the North-wind jority of their power; heir strength upon a tra- to get his cloak off first. d blew a very cold blast, ed with a sharp driving shower. But A Dispute once a and the Sun, about the super and they agreed to try t veller, which should be able The North-wind began, an accompani 4 making the man quit his cloak, obliged i fo gl it a his body 3% dose * posing Mii Bi - who, breaking o ihe jus 3 away the cold vapours wg the 818 and ried his warm sultry beams upon the } a of the poor weather-beaten HT The WR 8 Tae ing fai i heat, and unable ing faint with the . ol anals Log “oi oy t throws off his heavy ’ h atm to the shade of a neighbouring grove ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. There is something in the temper of man so averse to severe and boisterous treatment, that he who endea- vours to carry his point in that way, instead of pre- vailing, generally leaves the mind of him, whom he has thus attempted, in a more confirmed and obstinate situ- ation, than he found it at first. Bitter words and hard usage freeze the heart into a kind of obduracy, which mild persuasion and gentle language only can dissolve and soften. Persecution has always fixed and rivetted those opinions which it was intended to dispel; and some discerning men have attributed the quick growth of Christianity, in a great measure, to the rough and barbarous reception which its first teachers met with in the world. The same may have been observed of our Reformation : the blood of the martyrs was the manure which produced the great protestant crop, on which the church of England has subsisted ever since. Providence, which always makes use of the most natu- ral means to attain its purpose, has thought fit to esta=- blish the purest religion by this method : the consider- ation of which may give a proper check to those who are continually endeavouring to root out errors by that very management, which so infallibly fixes and implants all opinions, as well erroneous as orthodox. When an opinion is so violently attacked, it raisesan attention in the persecuted party, and gives an alarm to their vanity, by making them think that worth defending and keeping, at the hazard of their lives, which per=- haps, otherwise, they would only have admired awhile for the sake of its novelty, and afterwards resigned of their own accord. In short, a fierce turbulent opposi- tion, like the north-wind, only serves to make a man wrap up his notions more closely about him; but we know not what a kind, warm, sun-shiny behaviour, rightly applied, would not be able to effect. ws a ——— SE ili y a — i r———————————— tis “ ’ row # th Cova Wipe TT DV ROAR IRA IR —— a 78 AESOP’S FABLES. FABLY XLII. The Ass in the Lion's SKIN. | | fl BTS some rT e EEE sry of 1 Te i |? — - ML ili! Hi | [= S—————— = = Sm TE = = el TR h x Lim LE Ax Ass, finding the skin of a Lion, put it on; | | and going into the woods and pastures, threw all i t iH mnmm—— - the flocks and herds into a terrible consternation. At last, meeting his owner, he would have fright- ened him also; but the good man, seeing his long ears stood out, presently knew him, and with a good cudgel made him sensible, that, notwithstanding his being drest in a Lion's skin, he was really no more than an Ass. THE APPLICATION. As all affectation is wrong, and tends to expose and make a man ridiculous, so the more distant he 1s from the thing which he aflects to appear, the stronger will the ridicule be which he excites, and the greater the in- conveniences into which heruns himself thereby. How strangely absurd it is for a timorous person to procure a military post, in order to keep himself out of danger? and to fancy a red coat the surest protection of cow- AESOP’S FABLES. 79 : 1 ATO 3 xr gic I yet there have been those who have purchased 2. 0omapission 10 avoid being insulted ; and have been silly as to think conr i i rage was interwoven with or tied up in a cockade. But i du ckade. But it would i : : 1 not be an g L 3g oul iss fo Sth to consider, that it is not in the pole. f sont et ¢ oth to alter nature; and that, as it is ex pane 2 Sallis should show himself a man of courage mtrepidity upon all pr 1 : 3 roper occasions, th this means n ony eymah weet the disorace tl i y oY e disgrace they intended t [ and appear greater assc \ S avoid ar © tr asses than thev need : J aPpennigtent Ses 1 they need to have done. | r, it 1s not wm point of fortitude only, that P Pare liable to Xl ea tro visio i 2, Jo. e to expose themselves, by assuming racter to which thev are not equal : bi h giulia. a show of learning, of solivh oo { Hi Sia puissh : : ng, o igen, of a superior capaci & ¥ of learning, ef vu | perior capaci 1 any respect; or, tn short, of any virtue or k :, edge to which he has no proper claim, i a will - : Wao 3 J | c aliil, 1S, an i always be found to be, an Ass in a Lion’s shin. i "ABLE XLIII. The Froc and the Fox. A Frog, leap 1 , leaping out of the lake, and advantage of a rmising ground, ak pi nr OA AE —— ——— fw a v ti 5 - - . o A a - A a IAS lm bon So 4 4 n : "ew mi Nie 80 ESOP’S FABLES. tion to all beasts of the forest, that he was an able physician, and, for curing all manner of distempers, would turn his back to no person living. This dis- course, uttered in a parcel of hard cramp words, which nobody understood, made the beasts admire his learning, and give credit to every thing he said. At last, the Fox, who was present, with indignation asked him how he could have the impudence, with those thin lantern jaws, that meagre pale phyz, and blotched spotted body, to set up for one who was able to cure the infirmities of others. THE APPLICATION. A sickly infirm look is as disadvantageous in a phy- sician, as that of a rake in a clergyman, or a sheepish one in a soldier. If this moral contains any -thing further, it is, that we should not set up for rectifying enormities in others, while we labour under the same ourselves. Good advice ought always to be followed without our being prejudiced upon account of the per- son from whom it comes : but it is seldom that men can be brought to think us worth minding, when we prescribe cures for maladies with which ourselves are infected. Physician, heal thyself, is too scriptural not to be applied upon such an occasion ; and, if we would avoid being the jest of an audience, we must be sound, “and free from those diseases which we would endea- vour to cure in others. How shocked must people have been to hear a preacher for a whole hour declaim against drunkenness, when his own infirmity has been such, that he could neither bear nor forbear drinking ; and perhaps was the only person in the congregation who made the doctrine at that time necessary ! Others too have been very zealous in exploding crimes, for which none were more suspected than themselves : but, let such silly hypocrites remember, that they whose eyes want couching, are the most improper people in the world to set up for oculists. AESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XLIV. The Miscarevouvs Dog. end. i I saasssensnssnrnndie A CErTAIN 1 id en Le 2 Dg Shi Se I Joie > t was orced to fasten a eavy clog about his neck, to keep him from run- ning at, and worrying people. This the vain cur took for _a badge of honourable distinction; and grew so insolent upon it, that he looked down with an air of scorn upon the neighbouring Dogs, and refused to keep them company. But a pi old oacher, who was one of the gang, assured His thet e had no reason to value himself upon the Suvour he wore, since 1t was fixed upon him rather as a mark of disgrace than of honour. THE APPLICATION. _ Some people are so exceeding vain, and at the sam time, so dull of apprehension, that they interpret e ; hing by Yisich ey re distinguished Bre o favour. they betray any w 1 SouRersation, which are ih to on aes of het company, they make no scruple of ascribing it to : eir superiority, in point of wit. If want of sense or breeding (one of which is always the case)disposesthem ES ; Ani - I ——_— " Ee — g AR EE ee 82 ASOP’S FABLES. ~ to give or mistake affronts, upon which account all discreet sensil.le people are obliged to shun their com- pany, they impute it to their own valour and gaan mity, to which they fancy the world pays 2 we ul an ! respectful deference. I'here are several dec ent vay: of preventing si ch turbulent men from doing mischief, which might be applied with secrecy, and many times pass unregarded, if their own arrogance did not require the rest of mankind to take notice oi it. FABLE XLV. Juprrer and the CAMEL. 3 iia FIT RaT rata aRel Te ab Marsters sheassgs lida RL IRI I TE IY jit cd SREIR IRI TREES eae Samay tee tines wwe. . Jupiter could not help smiling at the 1mpertinent address of the great silly beast ; but, hover, re- jected the petition ; and told him, that, so far how nting bis unreasonable request, henceforward he would take care his ears should be shortened, as a punishment for his presumptuous importunity. Tur Camel presented a petition to dupiels eom- laining of the hardship of his case, In not raving, like bulls and other creatures, horns, or any Pespans of defence to protect himself from the attacks of Lin enemies ; and praying that relief might be ghen im in such manner as might be thought most expec ient. AESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. The nature of things is so fixed in every particular, that thev are very weak superstitious people who dream it is to be altered. But, besides the impossibi- lity of producing a change by addresses of this nature, they who employmuch of theirtime upon such accounts, instead of vetting, are sure to lose in the end. When any man is so frivolous and vexatious as to make un- reasonable complaints, and to harbour undue repinings in his heart, his peevishness will lessen the real good which he possesses, and the sourness of his temper shorten that allowance of comfort which he already thinks too scantv. Thus, in truth, it is not Providence, but ourselves, who punish our own importunityin soli- citing tor impossibilities, with a sharp corroding care, which abridees us of some ‘part of that little pleasure ) 1 . . * - which Providence has east into our lot. FABLE XLVI. The TraverrLers and the Brag. | = = =i iE EL TCR iE ASA it! | | | hy FH I Maes arss ar till] i Ii wr — Two men being to travel through a forest together, mutually promised to stand by each other, in any Er — A 5A ts RS lO. 45 Cl sh a & a i —_— > tii AN pA nisin 2 CLS iy 84 ZSOP’S FABLES. danger they should meet upon the way. They had not gone far, before a Bear came rushing towards them out of a thicket ; upon which, one being a light nimble fellow, got up into a tree; the other falling flat upon his faee, and holding his breath, lay stall, while the Bear came up and smelled at him; but that creature, supposing him to be a dead carcase, went back again into the wood, without doing him the least harm. When all was over, the spark who had climbed the tree came down to his companion, and with a plea- sant smile asked him what the Bear said to him ; for, says he, I took notice that he clapt his mouth very close to your ear. Why, replies the other, he charged me to take care for the future, not to put any con- fidence in such cowardly rascals as you are. THE APPLICATION. Though nothing is more common than to hear people profess services of friendship, where there is no occa- gion for them; yet scarce any thing is so hard to be found as a true friend, who will assist us in the time of danger and difficulty. All the declarations of kindness which are made to an experienced man, though ac- companied by a squeeze of the hand, and a solemn as- severation, should leave no greater impression upon his mind, than the whistling of the hollow breeze which brushes one’s ear with an unmeaning salute, and is presently gone. He that succours our necessity by a well-timed assistance, though it were not ushered in by previous compliments, will ever afterbe looked upon as our friend and protector; and, in so much a greater degree, as the favour was unasked and unpromised ; as it was not extorted by importunities on the one side, nor led in by a numerous attendance of promises on the other. Words are nothing, till they are fulfilled by actions ; and therefore we should not suffer ourselves to be deluded by a vain hope, and reliance upon them. ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE XLVII. The BaLp K~NiGcHT. Sa. A Cerrarxy Kni 1 1 oi Sars } Sogn Jowing old, his hair fell off, ame bald; to hide which i fection, he wor iwi be s» Ne wore a perriwie. ; 1di with some others } fo pat he oe as nd 6 others 5.) 8, a sudden gust of wind iow off the perriwig, and exposed his bald pate . company could not forbear laughing at the pee ent; and he himself laughed as loud as an hy ying, How at it to be expected that I ieep strange hair upon my h e r own would not stay there ? D Ne my Yohgee ti THE APPLICATION. } Captious, 1s not more uneasy to our | selves i iy Jissgeenhle to others. As noman is entirely Sn x u h2 few defects, surrounded with a guard of go ’ a ties, may pass muster well enough ; but he A & Sion is always upon the catch for something to take ception at, if he had no other bad quality, can ne : B0%epial a. A captious temper, : eT ie whole lump of virtues; and ; J ; makes us disreli which might otherwise be the most grat oli eful conversati If we would liveeas y toourselves,and agreeable ys ) like a little leven, sours ESOP’S FABLES. we should beso far from seeking occasions ofbeing angry, thatsometimes weshould let them pass waikgaried when they come in our way ; or, if they are so palaple at ve cannot help taking notice of them, we shoulc Jo 1 rally themoff witha jest, ordissolvethemin good as, Some people take a secret pleasure in WE An Tease ting others; and the more practicable t ley 0s " pers cise this quality upon any one, the more Sa s | Wht and prompt their inclination to do it. i 2s t is talent savours something of ill-nature, 1t deserves be baffled and defeated : which one cannot 9 better than, by receiving all that is uttered at Sueh a time with a cheerful aspect, and an ingenuous. Ploatini, uns affected reply. Nor is the expedient of the had nisht unworthy of our imitation : for if by any word of action we happen to raise the laughter of t ose 4 ont us, we cannot stifle 1t sooner, or better, than oy “ ! : : presence of mind to jon In mirth with the company; and, if possible, to anticipate the jest which ano is ready to throw out upon the occasion. Tv XIVIIL The Two Pors FABLE XLVIIL. The Two 1 ors. Tipit i Lg i HERTHN | 2 li lig - NAS fs ona il RG p> ill NON << HY a Calli i m1 Hn en... aril] tL Ax Earthen Pot, and one of Brass, standing AESOP’S FABLES. together upon the river’s brink. were both car- ried away by the flowing in of the tide. The Earthen Pot showed some uneasiness, as fearing he should be broken ; but his companicn of Brass bid him be under no apprehension, for that he would take care of him. O, replies the other, keep as far off as ever you can, I entreat you; it is you I am most afraid of: for, whether the stream dashes you against me, or me against you, I am sire to be the sufferer; and therefore I beg of you do not let us come near one another. THE APPLICATION. A man of a moderate fortune, who is contented with what he has, and finds he can live happily upon it, should take care not to hazard and expose his felicity by consorting with the great and the powerful. People of equal conditions may float down the current of life without hurting each other: but itis a point of some difficulty to steer one’s course in the company of the great, so as to escape without a bulge. One would not chuse to have one’s little country box siteated in the neighbourhood of a very great man; for whether I ignorantly trespass upon him, or he knowingly en- croaches upon me, I only am like to be the sufferer. I can neither entertain nor play with him, upon his own terms ; for that which is moderation and diversion to him, in me would be extravagance and ruin, we 5 At oo WN RE A Bian SV hed worsen 5 —— : Br IR Ws Nr Mi nar ———— nn Rt RE Bt ———— 83 ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XLIX. The Peacock and the CRANE. Tue Peacock and the Crane by chance met together in the same place. The Peacock, Sees ing his tail, displayed his gaudy plumes, an looked with contempt upon the Crane, as some mean ordinary person. The Crane, resolving to mortify his insolence, took occasion to say, that Peacocks were very fine birds indeed, if fine fea- thers could make them so, but that he thought 1t a much nobler thing to be able to rise above the clouds, than to strut about upon the ground, and be gazed at by children. THE APPLICATION. It is very absurd to slight or insult another upon his wanting any property which we possess; for he may, for any thing we know, have as just reason to triumph over uf, by being master of some goodsquality, of which weare incapable. But,inregard tothefable before us, that which the Peacock values himself upon, the glitter and finery of dress, is one of the most trifling considerations in nature ; and what a man of sense would be ashamed to reckon éven as the least part of merit. Indeed, children, ESOP’S FABLES. 89 and those people who think much about the same pitch with them, are apt to be taken with varnish and tinsel : but they who examine by the scale of common sense, must find something of weight and substance, before they can be persuaded to set a value. The mind, which is stored with virtuous and rational sentiments, and the behaviour, which speaks complacence and humility, stamp an estimate upon the possessor, which all judi- cious spectators are ready to admire and acknowledge. But if there be any merit in an embroidered coat, a bro- cade waistcoat, a shoe, a stocking, ora sword knot, the person who wears them has the least claim tot; let it be ascribed where it justly belongs, to the several artisans who wrought and disposed the materials of which they consist. This moralis not intended toderogateany thing from the magnificence of fine clothes and rich equipages, which, as times and circumstances require, may be used with decency and propriety enough : but one cannot help being concerned, lest any worth should be affixed to them more than their own intrinsic value. FABLE L. The Oak and the REED. IP Ye tH. TTI = AN Oak, which hung over the bank of a river, was blown down by a violent storm of wind ; 90 AESOP’S FABLES. and as it was carried along by the stream, some of its boughs brushed agaist a Reed, which grew near the shore. This struck the Oak with a thought of admiration; and he could not forbear asking the Reed, how he came to stand so secure and unhurt in a tempest which had been furious enough to tear an Oak up by the roots? Why, says the Reed, I secure myself by putting on a beha- viour quite contrary to what you do, instead of being stubborn and stiff, and confiding in my strength, I yield and bend to the blast, and let it go over me, knowing how vain and fruitless it would be to resist. THE APPLICATION. Though a tame submission to injuries which it is in our power to redress, be generally esteemed a base and a dishonourable thing; yet, to resist where there 1s no probability, or even hopes of our getting the better, may also be looked upon as the effect of a blind teme- rity, and perhaps of a weak understanding. The strokes of fortune are oftentimes as irresistible as they are se- vere; and he who, with an impatient reluctant spirit, fichts against her, instead of alleviating, does but dou- ble her blows upon himself. A person of a quiet still temper, whether it is given him by nature, or acquired by art, calmly composes himself in the midst of a storm, so as to elude the shock, or receive it with the least detriment : like a prudent experienced sailor, who is swimming to the shore from a wrecked vessel in a swelling sea; he does not oppose the fury of the waves, but stoops and gives way, that they may roll over his head without obstruction. The doctrine of absolute submission in all cases, is an absurd, dogmatical pre- cept, with nothing but ignorance and superstition to support it : but, upon particular occasions, and where it 1s impossible for us to overcome, to submit patiently is one of the most reasonable maxims in life. pen 3 | of Seon adie coming into the woods, di- so successfully, that he slew many wild beasts, and pursued several others. This put the whole savage kind into a fearful consterna~ tion, and made them fly to the most retired thickets for refuge. At last, the Tiger resumed a coura and bidding them not to be afraid, said, that alone would engage the enemy ; telling dein the might depend upon his valour and strength to venge their wrongs. In the midst of these threats while he was lashing himself with his tail, and teary ing up the ground for anger, an arrow pierced his nbs, and hung by its barbed point in his side. He set up a hideous and loud roar, occasioned by the anguish which he felt, and endeavoured to draw out the painful dart with his teeth; when the Fox approaching him, inquired with an air of surprise, who it was that could have strength and courage enough to wound so mighty and valorous a beast ! Ah! says the Tiger, I was mistaken in my reckon- ing: It was that invincible man yonder. 92 ZESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. Though strength and courage are very good pl dients towards the making us secure and formidable in the world, yet unless there be a proper portion of Wis. dom or policy to direct them, instead of being sere * able, they often prove detrimental to their propuis ors, A rash froward man, who depends upon the excellence of his own parts and accomplishments, 1s ikevise apt to expose a weak side, which his enemies mig not otherwise have observed : and gives an navonisgs to others, by those very means which he fancied wou have secured it to himself. Counsel and conduct - ways did, and always will govern the world ; gad j 3 strong, in spite of all their force, can never ayo & ing tools to the crafty. Some men are as much § - perior to others in wisdom and policy, as man, in ge: neral, is above a brute. Strength l-conesrted Spas to them, is like a quarter-staff in the hands of a uge, robust, but bungling fellow, who fights Agung 8 master of the science. The latter, though Vithon : weapon, would have skill and address enough i Lis A his adversary, and drub him with his own sta : bs word, savage fierceness and brutal strength m I not pretend to stand in competition with finesse a stratagem. ZESOP’S FABLES. FABLE LILI. The Lion and the Four BuLLs. a > Fa ? . SZ Er loi 2 “Ta cs of ES NA 5 id ATU, Four Bulls, which had entered into a very strict friendship, kept always near one another, and fed together. The Lion often saw them, ‘and as often had a mind to make one of them his prey ; but though he could easily have subdued any of them singly, yet he was afraid to attack the whole alliance, as knowing they would have been too hard for him, and therefore contented himself for the present with keeping at a distance. At last, per- ceiving no attempt was to be made upon them as long as this combination held, he took occasion, by whispers and hints, to foment jealousies and raise divisions among them. This stratagem succeeded so well, that the Bulls grew cold and reserved towards one another, which soon after ripened inte a downright hatred and aversion, and, at last, ended in a total separation. The Lion had now obtained his ends; and, as impossible as it was for him to hurt them while they were united, he found no diffi- culty, now they were parted, to seize and devour every Bull of them, one after another. oo ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. The moral of this fable is so well known and allowed, that to go about to enlighten it, would be like hording a candle to the sun. A kingdom divided against itse cannot stand; and as undisputed a maxim as it is, was however thought necessary to be urged to the Ritealion of mankind, by the_ best man that ever lived. An since friendships and alliances are of so great ioyposs® ance to our well-being and happiness, we cannot be too often cautioned not to let them be broken hy ta ¢ - bearers and whisperers, or any other contrivance o our enemies. FABLE LIL The Coon and the PITCHER. { yl ii i an HIT a ge A ERI Rl Ani i sl dt gi = ill pls en | it n , 7S NG) : A W = Ea we SR. : YR a 4 J f IN = A . S z 4 T= aN df. {! iin fli » fl i i - 5 ee : fl mf ' ny of i) | Rh Mi hs et Ee JT pn dl Is: A Crow, ready to die with thirst, flew with joy to a Pitcher, which he beheld at some dis- tance. When he came, he found water in 1t indeed, but so near the bottom, that with all his stooping and straining he was not able to reach it. Then he endeavoured to overturn the Pitcher, that so at Yeast he might be able to get a little of it. Bus his strength was not sufficient for this. At las AESOP’S FABLES. seeing some pebbles lic near the place, he cast them onc by one into the Pitcher; and thus, by degrees, raised the water up to the very brim, and satisfied his thirst. THE APPLICATION. Many things which cannot be effected by strength, or by the vulgar way of enterprising, may yet be brought about by some new and untried means. A man of sagacity and penetration, upon encountering a difficulty or two, does not immediately despair; but if he cannot succeed one way, employs his wit gpd in- genuity another; and, to avoid or get over an impe- diment, makes no scruple of stepping out of the path of his forefathers. Since our happiness, next to the regulation of our minds, depends altogether upon our having and enjoying the conveniences of life, why should we stand upon ceremony about the methods of obtaining them, or pay any deference to antiquity upon that score ? If almost every age had not exerted itsell in some new improvements of its own, we should want a thousand arts, or at least many degrees of per= fection in every art, which at present we are in pos=- session of. The invention of uny thing which is more commodious for the mind or body, than what they had before, ought to be embraced readily, and the pro- jector of it distinguished with a suitable encouracement. Such as the use of the compass, for esample, from which mankind reaps much benefit and advantage, and which was not known to former ages. When we follow the steps of those who have gane before us in the old beaten track of life, how do we differ from horses in a team, which are linked to each other by a chain or harness, and move on in a dull heavy pace, to the tune of their leader's bells? But the man who enriches the present fund of knowledge with some new and useful improvement, like a happy adventurer at sea, dis= covers, as it were, unknown land, and imports an additional trade into his own country. 96 AESOP'S FABLES. FABLE LIV. The ForesTER and the LION. - ils mea he ny ean ffl tl 2) Zr oy “to Cy | eit i yy “Hig ’ ay 3 ~ Hh, \ = Re Ea i m/. x bil» NE Sgr ARE cits UAB MORE bi wi No LIAN Sr Y = — af \ | I hd << 3 2 : \ In, SESS. aly on PR a pd i bh, Coie i . » in, toy! ™ Lait} s | ' Phra Mmmm... eee emi Wit, ae 3 M i sath 1rertd Hina ser ees orne s— ee = . : . 2 Tue Forester meeting with the Lion, one day, ' ile without they discoursed together for a wie a differing much in opinion. At last, A ity 10 ening to arise about the voint of super ae Pe a man and a Lion, the man, wanting hej 6 argument, showed the Lion a nelle on : 1 ; aced the statue of a st ; on which was placed tatu og over a vanquished Lion. If this, Joy fe 1 s 2 ay for it, let us be the ca ’ all you have to say for 1t, le ! CA yo we will make the Lion striding over the Man THE APPLICATION. Contending partiesare very apt 10 ipfisy) for he srus to records written by ‘heir own sides op BoD is more unfair, and at the same time msigniReng | a unconvincing. Such is the partiality 0 onaibines sd favour of themselves and their own eions, a almost im:ossible i: come at any oY by ng the accounts which are written on one si e only. ESOP’S FABLES. have a few or no memoirs come down to us of what was transacted in the world during the sovereignty of anci- ent Rome, but what were written by those who had a dependency upon it; therefore it is no wonder that they appear, upon most occasions, to have been so great and glorious a nation. What their contempora- ries of other countries thought of them we cannot tell, otherwise than from their own writers: it is not impos- sible but they might have described them as a barba- rous, rapacious, treacherous, unpolite people; who, upon their conquest of Greece, for some time, made as great havoc and destruction of the arts and sciggces, as their fellow plunderers, the Goths and Vandals, did, af- terwards, in Italy. What monsters would our own par- ty-zealots make of each other, if the transactions of the times were to be handed down to posterity by a warm hearty man on either side! And were such records to survive two or three centuries, with what perplexities and difficulties must they embarrass a young historian, as by turns he consulted them for the characters of his great forefathers ! If it should so happen, it were to be wished this application might be living at the same time, that young readers, instead of doubting to which they should give credit, would not fail to remember, that this was the work of a man, that of a lion. {i oe —— = G — 98 ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE LV. The SATYR and the TRAV ELLER. { i! i! efi] == — ened bY I he forest in an ex- i sari | A SATYR, as he was ranging { s fron inane ceeding cold snowy season, met with 2 Tae veller half-starved wich the extremity or Re ther. He took compassion on him, and andly 2 . i 2 . . vited him home to a warm comfortable gr rock Ag soon as the had in the hollow of a.rock. ; fs Jom 2s th yx 8 at down, notwithstanding ti Suivi ii The la " the chill Traveller could not P Dv age 4 © pd hes nex f ors’ ends. Upon the Sa- forbear blowing his a os Tyr us Bo i im, w ie did so; he answ , oy asking him, wy he Te The honest Sylvan he did it to warm his hands. The } ass Sys having seen little of the world, admire 2 i; = ? ble ality as the st 30 V able a qualily A was master of so valu i ; > D be ¢. and therefore was resolved to a dhe I cl ould. He spread the him in the best manner hc cou . De or table before him with dried fruits of se S " tS ich n ordial wine, which, and produced a remnant of cold ¢ ) oO ZASOP’S FABLES. 99 mulled with some warm spices, infused over the fire, and presented to his shivering guest. But this the Traveller thought fit to blow likewise ; and upon the Satyr’s demanding a reason why he blowed again, he replied, to cool his dish. This second answer provoked the Satyr’s indignation, as much as the first had kindled his surprise : so, taking the Man by the shoulder, he thrust him out of doors, saying he would have nothing to do with a wretch who had so vile a quality as to blow hot and cold with the same mouth. THE APPLICATION. Though the poor Traveller in the Fable was not guilty of any real crime in what he did, yet one cannot help approving the honest simplicity of the Satyr, who could not be reconciled to such double-dealing. In the moral sense of the fable, nothing can be more offen- sive to one of a sincere heart, than he that blows with a different breath from the same mouth; who flatters a man to his face, and reviles him behind his back. Some again, just like this man, to serve a present view, will blow nothing but what is warm, benevolent, and che- rishing ; and when they have raised the expectations of a dependant to a degree which they think may prove troublesome, can, with putting on a cold air, easily chill and blast all his blooming hopes. But such a temper, vhether it proceeds from a designed or natural levity, 1s detestable, and has been the cause of much trouble and mortification to many a brave deserving man. Una less the tenor of a man’s life be always true and consist- ent with itself, the less one has to do with Lim the better. . 100 ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE LVI. HERCULES and the CARTER. p= AN RRR NA as = { NR ea RRR NNN mee??? * As a clownish fellow was driving his cart along a deep miry lane, the wheels stuck so fast in the clay, that the horses could not draw them out. Up- on this he fell a bawling and praying to Hercules to come and help him. Hercules looking down from a cloud, bid him not lie there, like an idle rascal as he was, but get up and whip his horses stoutly, and clap his shoulder to the wheel; adding, that this was the only way for him to obtain his assistance. THE APPLICATION. This fable shows us how vain and ill-grounded the expectations of those people are, who imagine they can obtain whatever they want, by importuning Heaven with their prayers; for it 1s so agreeable to the nature of the Divine Being, to be better pleased with virtuous actions and an honest industry, than idle prayers, that it is a sort of blasphemy to say otherwise. These were ASOP’S FABLES. 101 the sentiments of honest good heathens, who were strangers to all revealed religion: but it is not strange that they should embrace and propagate such a notion since it 1s no other than the dictate of common reason. What is both strange in itself, and surprising how it could be made so fashionable, is, that most “of those whose reason should be enlightened by revelation, are very apt to be guilty of this stupidity, and by praying often for the comforts of life, to neglect that business which is the proper means of procuring them. How such a mistaken devotion came to prevail, one cannot imagine, unless from one of these two motives; either that people, by such a veil of hypocrisy, would pass themselves upon mankind for better than they really are; or are influenced by unskilful preachers (which is sometimes, indeed too often, the case) to mind the world as little as possible, even to the neglect of their necessary callings. No question but it is a great sin for a man to fail in his trade or occupation, by running often to prayers; it being a demonstration in itself, though the scripture had never said it, that we please God most when we are doing the most good : and how can we do more good, than by a sober honest industry to provide for those of their own household, and to ene deavour to have to give to them that needeth., The man who is virtuously and honestly engaged, is actu= ally serving God all the while; and is “more likely to have his silent wishes, accompanied with strenuous en- deavours, complied with by the Supreme Being, than he who begs with a fruitless vehemence, and solicits with an empty hand: a hand, which weuld be more religi- ous were it usefully employed, and more devout, were it stretched forth to de good to those that want it ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE LVIL. The Max and his GoosE. = EL Di iii Seer! HL f i SB iL hie i § : : z 28 » BE 4 El | == 7 ol Svat i testy il \ RPE SE ITT J —m rink ( | ul & ” il ' tm rss, Seng. . CL eccuaseseestésieal i INSEIRE CHINES TINIE 1 sa. to ———————. A Cerraiy man had a goose, which laid him 2 golden egg every day. But, not contented with this, which rather increased than abated his avarice, he was resolved to kill the goose, and cut up her bel- "ly, that so he might come to the inexhaustible trea- sure, which he fancied she had within her. He did so, and, to his great sorrow and disappointment, found nothing. TIE APPLICATION. Phey who are of such craving impatient tempers, that they cannot live contented when fortune had bless- ed them with a constant and continued sufficiency, deserve even to be deprived of what they have. And this has been the case of many ambitious and covetous men, who by making an essay to grow rich at once, have missed what they aimed at, and lost what they had before. But this comes so near the sense of the fourth fable, that the same application may very well serve for both. If any thing farther can be couched in this, it may possibly be intended to show us the un- reasonableness ‘and inconvenience of being solicitous \ ESOP’S FABLES. 103 about what may happen hereafter, and wanting to pry into the womb of futurity, which if we could do, all we should get for our pains would be, to spoil our pleasures by anticipation, and double our misfortunes by a pre- vious sense and apprehension of them. There are some things that entertain and delight us very agreeably while we view them at a proper distance ; which, per- haps, would not stand the test of a too near inspection. Beauty, being only the external form of a thing which strikes the eye in a pleasing manner, is a very thin glos- sy being, and like some nice painting of a peculiar com- position, will not well bear even to be breathed on: to preserve our good opinion of it, we must not approach 100 close; for if, like the man in the fable; we have a mind to search for a treasure within, we may not only fail of our expectations there, hut even lose the con- stant relish we enjoyed from a remoter contemplation. FABLE LVILL. Zhe Wanton CALE. a TOY TN (Eh 2 TL LT TS a | of i py 6) v WEE Ip WR. = - : = = ify i wl | Wu ~~ SN = A = " fn i | fi I a fa) weaneti) In Cilla DT — an i Lill A Cavr, full of play and wantonness, seeing the Ox at plough, could not forbear insulting him. What a sorry, poor drudge art thou, says he, to bear that heavy yoke upon your neck, and go all day draw- 104 ZASOP’S FABLES. ing a plough at your tail, to turn up the ground for our master! But you are a wretched dull slave, and now no better, or else you would not do it. See what a happy life I lead; 1 go just where I please; sometimes 1 lie down under a cool shade; sometimes frisk about in the open sunshine; and, when I please, slake my thirst in the clear sweet brook : but you, if you were to perish, have not so much as a little dirty water to refresh you. The Ox, not at all moved with what was said, went quietly and calmly on with his work; and, in the evening, was unyoked and turned loose. Soon after which he saw the Calf taken out of the field, and delivered into the hands of a priest, who immediately led him to the altar, and prepared to sacrifice him. His head was hung round with fillets of flowers, and the fatal knife was just going to be applied to his throat, when the Ox drew near, and whispered him to this purpose: Behold the end of your insolence and arrogance; it was for this only’s 1 were suffered to live at all; and pray, now, friend, whose condition is best, your’s or mine ? THE APPLICATION. To insult people in distress, is the property of a cruel, indiscreet, and giddy temper; for as the proceedings of fortune are very irregular and uncertain, we may, the next turn of the wheel, be thrown down to their condi- tion, and they exalted to ours. We are likewise given to understand by this fable, what the consequence of an idle life generally is, and how well satisfied labo~ rious, diligent men are, in the end, when they come quietly to enjoy the fruits of their industry. They who by little tricks and sharpings, or by open violence and robbery, live in a high expensive way, often, in their hearts at least, despise the poor honest man, who is contented with the virtuous product of his daily la- bour, and patiently submits to his destiny. But how often is the poor man comforted, by seeing these wanton ESOP’S FABLES. 105 villains led in triumph to the altar of justice, while he has many a cheerful summer’s morning to enjoy abroad and many a long winter’s evening to indulge himself in, at home, by a quiet hearth, and under an unenvied roof, blessings which often attend a sober industrious man, though the idle and the profligate are utter strangers to them. Luxury and intemperance, besides their being certain to shorten a man’s days, are very apt not only to engage people with their seeming charms into a de- bauched life, utterly prejudicial to their health, but to make them have a contempt for others, whose good sense and true taste of happiness inspire them with an aversion to idleness and effeminacy, and put them upon hardening their constitution by innocent exercise and laudable employment. How many do gluttony and sloth tumble into an untimely grave; while the tempe- rate and the active drink sober draughts of life, and spin out their thread to the most desirable length, vi rimMi. FABLE LIX. The Leorarp and the Fox. ‘ve nN wm N . IN SA I: i H i A ———— Tne ) Hs i a i STH fa 7 Wl Lay Rutt 4 it J } } , Pr o 7 RLY A FL IA hv Sl ¥ fl Nag PANN A Fs NA EE PR / ING alle wm A S - THE Leopard one day took it into his head to va- lue himself upon the great variety and beauty of his spots, and truly he saw no reason why even the Fo 106 ASOP’S FABLES. Lion should take place of him, since he could not show so beautiful a skin. As for the rest of the wild beasts of the forest, he treated them all, with- out distinction, in the most haughty disdainful man- ner. But the Fox, being among them, went up to him with a great deal .of spirit and resolution, and told him, that he was mistaken in the value he was pleased to set upon himself; since people of judg- ment were not used to form their opinion of me- rit from an outside appearance, but by considering the good qualities and endowments with which the mind was stored within. THE APPLICATION. How much more heavenly and pewerful would beauty prove, if it were not so frequently impaired by the af- fectation and conceitedness of its possessor? If some women were but as modest and unassuming as they are handsome, they might command the hearts of all that behold them. But nature seemed to foresee, and has pro- vided against such an inconvenience, by tempering its greatest master-pieces with a due propottion of pride and vanity : so that their power, depending upon the duration of their beauty only, is like to be but of a short continuance ; which, when they happen to prove ty- rants, Is no small comfort to us; and then, even while it lasts, will abate much of its severity by the allay of those two prevailing ingredients. Wise men are chiefly captivated with the charms of the mind; and whenever thew are infatuated with a passion for any thing else, itis generally observed that they cease, during that time at least, to be what they were; and are indeed looked upon to be only playing the fool. If the fair ones we have been speaking of havea true ascendant over them, they will oblige them to divest themselves of common sense, and to talk and act ridiculously, before they can think them worthy of the least regard. Should one of these fine creatures be addressed in thie words of Juba, ~ what course do you design to take? Nay, foyé the ASOP’S FABLES. *Tis not a set of features nor complexion, The tincture of a skin that I admire. Beauty soon grows familiar to the lover, Fades in his eye, and palls upon the sense. The virtuous Marcia towers above her sex. True, she is fair, oh, how divinely fair! But still the lovely maid improves her charms With inward greatness, unaffected wisdom, And sanctity of manners. The man that should venture that success of a strong passion, upon the construction she would put upon such a compliment, might have reason to repent of his con- duct. FABLE LX. The Car and the Fox. x to 1 : g Ae pm afl 1, Les - jetty | i TATE maaeald st nn cell sd riers —— —— en 6u 1411 As the Cat and the Fox were talking politics together, on a time, in the middle of a forest, Reynard said, let things turn out ever so bad, ‘he did not care, for he had a thousand tricks for them yet, before they should hurt him: But play, says Mrs. Puss, suppose there should be an ui - ‘. 108 ESOP’S FABLES. Cat, I have but one shift for it, and if that won't do, I am undone. I am sorry for you, replies Rey- nard, with all my heart, and would gladly furnish you with one or two of mine; but, indeed, neigh- bour, -as times go, it is not good to trust; we must even be every one for himself, as the saying is, and so your humble servant. These words were scarce out of his mouth when they were alarmed with a pack of hounds, that came upon them full cry. The Cat, by the help of her single shift, ran up a tree, and sat securely among the top branches ; from whence she beheld Reynard, who had not been able to get out of sight, overtaken with his thousand tricks, and torn in as many pieces by the Dogs which had surrounded him. THE APPLICATION. A man that sets up for more cunning than the rest of his neighbours, is generally a silly fellow at the bottom. Whoever is master of a little judgment and insight into things, let him keep them to himself, and make use of them as he sees occasion; but he should not be teasing others with an idle and impertinent ostentation of them. One good discreet expedient made use of upon an emer- gency, will doa man more real service, and make others think better of him, than to have passed all along for a shrewd crafty knave, and be bubbled at last. When any one has been such a coxcomb as to insult his ac- quaintance, by pretending to more policy and strata- gem than the rest of mankind, they are apt to wish for some difficulty for him to show his skill in; where, if he should miscarry (as ten to one but he does), his misfortune, instead of pity, is sure to be attended with laughter. He that sets up for a biter, as the phrase is, being generally intent upon his prey, or vain of showing his art, frequently exposes himself to the traps of one sharper than himself, and incurs the ridicule of those whom he designed to make ridiculous.- ZEZSOP’S FABLES. 109 FABLE LXI. The ParTRrIDGE and the Cocks. i n { Hitdiniine.. Hit Hii Hal Te ~aantliill A CerTAIN man, having taken a Partridge, plucked some of the feathers out of its wings, and turned it into a little yard, where he kept gamecocks. The Cocks for a while made the poor bird lead a sad life, continually pecking and driving it away from the meat. This treatment was taken the more unkindly, because offered to a stranger; and the Partridge could not but conclude them the most inhospitable, uncivil people he had ever met with. But, at last, observing how frequently they quarreled and fought with each other, he comforted himself with this re- flection, that it was no wonder they were so cruel to him, since there was so much bickering and animo- sity among themselves. THE APPLICATION. This fable comes home to ourselves, We of this island having always been looked upon as cruel to stran- Mgers. Whether there is any thing in the manner of our situation, as an island, which consequently can be no thoroughfare to other countries, and so is not made use of by strangers on that account, which makes us thus 110 JESOP’S FABLES. shy and uncivil ; or, whether it be a jealousy upon ac< count of our liberties, which puts us upon being suspi- cious of, and unwilling to harbour any that are not members of the same community, perhaps it would not be easy to determine. But that it is so in fact, is too notorious to be denied ; and probably can be account- ed for no better way, than from the natural bent of our temper, as it proceeds from something peculiar to our air and climate. It has been affirmed,. that there is not in the whole world besides, a breed of cocks and dogs, so fierce and incapable of yielding as that of ours : but that either of them, carried into foreign coun- tries, would degenerate in a few years. Why may not the same be true of our men 7 Butif strangers find any inconvenience in this, there is a comfortable con- sideration to balance it on the other side, which is that there are no people under the sun so much given to division and contention among themselves as we are. Can a stranger think it hard to be looked upon with some shyness, when he beholds how little we spare one another 7 Was ever any foreigner, merely for being a foreigner, treated with half that malice and bitterness, which differing parties express towards each other? One would willingly believe that this proceeds, In the main, on both sides, from a passionate concert for our liberties and well being ; for there is nothing else which can so well excuse it. But it cannot be denied that our aversion, notwithstanding our being a trading nation, to have any intercourse with strangers is so great, that when we want other objects for our churlishness, we raise them up among ourselves; and theres, sometimes, as great a strangeness kept up between one countyand another here, as there is between two distinct king- doms abroad. One cannot sO much wonder at the con- stant hostilities which are observed between the inha- bitants of South and North Britain, of Wales and Ire= land, among one another; when a Yorkshire man shall. be looked upon as a foreigner by a native of Norfolk and both be taken for outlandish intruders, by one that happens to be born within the bills of mortality. AZSOP’S FABLES. FABLE LXII. 7he HuNnTED BEAVER. brain a——— DE AAS IEW, IT A BET It 5 said that a Beaver (a creature that lives chief- r 5 $ op Fa ha a certain part about him, which 5 pms sie, " i) upon this account, he 1s one of Raa es eed es oe the De a and knew not how to “i eli {rn lin t how to escape, recollecting with him- the reason of his being thus persecuted, with a great a and presence of mind, he bit off the part which his hunters wanted, and throwing it to- ards them, by these means escaped with his life. THE APPLICATION. How it is : — ig it is among beasts, there are few human ures but what are hunted for something else, be-~ sides either their lives, or the pleasure of hunting them Je Inquisition would hardly be so keen against the Jena if they had not something belonging to them : ich their persecutors esteem more valuable than their souls ; which whenever that wise, but obstinate 112 ESOP’S FABLES. people, can prevail with themselves to part with, there is an end of the chase, for that time. Indeed, when life 1s pursued, and in danger, whoever values 1t, should give up every thing but his honour to preserve it. And, when a discarded minister 1s prosecuted for having damaged the commonwealth, let him but throw down some of the fruits of his iniquity to the hunters, and one may engage for his coming off, in other re- spects, with a whole skin. FABLE LXIIl. The THUNNY and the DoLPHIN. (it Me —— i 3 i i Tem —— ——" —— | i ie ru mm ! i 4 ly Ly i | i 1 i | | Nd \ NC eS [oh a iy es aE =3 | (he! s Wie Go fii msn nt ly, J = 5 x & | Lise a reg, al Hil 11 I Hi i te ne \ { iis i : } {if gs ar ——— aaa wl ty i: a ——— ——————— A Fis called a Thunny, being pursued by a Dol- hin, and driven with great violence, not minding which way he went, was thrown by the force of the waves upon a rock, and left there. His death was now inevitable : but, casting his cyes on one side, and seeing the Dolphin in the same condition, lie gasping by him, Well, says he, I must die, it is true; but * I die with pleasure, when I behold him who is the cause of it volved in the same fate. ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. Revenge, though a blind, mischievous passion, is yet a very sweet thing: so sweet, that it can even soothe the pangs, and reconcile us to the bitterness of death. And, indeed, it must be a temper highly philosophical, that could be driven out of life, by any tyrannical, unjust procedure, and not to be touched with a sense of pleasure to see the author of it splitting upon the same rock. When this is allowed, and it is farther con- sidered how easily the revenge of the meanest person may be executed upon even the highest, it should, me- thinks, keep people upon their guard, and prevail with them not to persecute or be injurious to any one. The moral turpitude of doing wrong is sufficient to influence every brave honest man, and to secure him from har- bouring even the least thought of it in his breast. But the knave and coward should weigh the present argu- ment, and before they attempt the least injury, be as- sured of this truth, that nothing is more sweet, nor scarce any thing so easy to compass as revenge. FABLE LXIV. The Hawk and the NIGHTINGALE. REAM] - r “i ND — A NIGHTINGALE, sitting all alone among the shady branches of an oak, sung with so melodious 114 ESOP’S FABLES. and shrill a pipe, that she made the woods echo again, and alarmed a hungry Hawk, who was at some dis- tance off, watching for his prey ; he had no sooner discovered the little musician, but, making a stoop at the place, he seized her with his crooked talons, and bid her prepare for death. Ah! says she, for mercy’s sake, don’t do so barbarous.a thing, and so unbecom- ing yourself; consider, I never did you any wrong, and am but a poor small morsel for such a stomach as yours ; rather attack some larger fowl, which may bring you more credit, and a better meal, and let me go. Ay! says the Hawk, persuade me to it if you can; I have been upon the watch all the day long, and have not met with one bit of any thing, till I caught you; and now you would have me let you go, in hopes of something better, would you ? Pray, who would be the fool then ? THE APPLICATION. They who neglect the opportunity of reaping a small advantage in hopes they shall obtain a better, are far from acting upon a reasonable and well-advised found- ation. The figure of time is always drawn with a single lock of hair hanging over his forehead; and the back part of his head bald; to put us in mind, that we should be sure to lay hold of an occasion when it presents itself to us; lest afterwards we repent us of our omission and folly, and would recover it when it is too late. It is a very weak reason to give for our refusal of an offer of kindness, that we do it because we desire or deserve a better: for it is time enough to relinquish the small affair, when the great one comes, if ever it does come. But, supposing it should not, how can we forgive ourselves for letting any thing slip through our hand, by vainly gaping after something else, which we never could obtain ? He who has not been guilty of any of these kind of errors, however poorly be may come off at last, has only the malice of fortune, or of somebody else, to charge with his ill success: and may ESOP’S FABLES. 115 applaud himself with some comfort, in never havin lost an opportunity, though ever so small, of betterin and improving his circumstances. Unthinking peo lo have oftentimes the unhappiness to fret and on themselves with retrospects of this kind ; which they, who attend to the business of li : ife as they ougl have occasion to make. y ought, never FABLE LXV. The Fox without a TIL. oll { 1g 1 Fou anatt ha 3EL BEN = . - — TE fil in ini — ; it BW 1 al hil BE mmr RN {unit any -? EEE Tam Tae “sb jy it ast it (a : = * Tey : Hip dE ¥ et 4 ALI Satin! Hreres in po il} TH Ly il Wo y = being caught in a steel trap, by his tail, Was glad to compound for his escape with the loss of it ; but upon coming abroad into the world, began to be so sensible of the disgrace such a defect would bring upon him, that he almost wished he had died rather than left it behind him. However, to make the best of a bad matter, he formed a project mm his head, to call an assembly of the rest of the Foxes, and propose 1t for their imitation, as a fashion which would be very agreeable and becoming. He did so; and made a long harangue upon the unprofitableness of tails in general, and endeavoured chiefly to show the 116 ESOP’S FABLES. awkwardness and inconvenience ofa Fox’s tail in parti- cular ; adding that it would be both mere graceful, and more expeditious, to be altogether without them ; and that for 19 part, what he had only imagined and con- jectured before, he now found by experience ; for that he never enjoyed himself so well, nor found himself - so easy as he had done since he cut off his tail. He said no more, but looked about with a brisk air, to see what proselytes he had gained; when a sly old thief in the company, who understood trap, answered him with a leer, I believe you may have found a conveniency in parting with your tail, and when we are in the same circumstances, perhaps we may do 50 too. THE APPLICATION. If men were but generally as prudent as foxes, they would not suffer so many silly fashions to obtain, as are daily brought in vogue, for which scarce any reason can be assigned besides the humour of some conceited vain creature ; unless, which is full as bad, they are intended to palliate some defect in the person that in- troduces them. The petticoat of a whole sex has been sometimes swelled to such a prodigious extent, to screen an enormity, of which only one of them has been guilty. And it is no wonder that Alexander the Great could bring a wry neck into fashion in a nation of slaves, when we consider what power of this nature some little insignificant dapper fellows have had among a free people, ESOP’S FABLES. 117 FABLE LXVIL. The Op Max and Dears. a Il mT iil i iL AT rs Jae i | i Mh i i i thin —- - Mn ail ! Mim nilfid Ji HITT | prt diy HI tt Frys snes scans mE A Poor feeble old Man, who had crawled out mto a neighbouring wood to gather a few sticks, had made up his bundle, and laying it over his shoulders, was trudging homeward with it ; but what with age, and the length of the way, and the weight of his burthen, he grew so faint and weak, that he sunk under it ; and, as he sat on the ground, called upon Death to come, once for all, and ease him of his troubles. Death no sooner heard him, but he came and demanded of him what he wanted. The poor old creature, who little thought Death had been so near, and frighted almost out of his senses with his terrible aspect, answered him trembling, That having by chance let his bundle of sticks fall, and being too infirm to get it up himself, he had made bold to call upon him to help him; that indeed this was all he wanted at present ; and that he hoped his worship was not offended with him for the liberty he had taken in so doing. 118 ASOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. This fable gives us a lively representation of the general behaviour of mankind towards that grim king of terrors, Death. Such liberties do they take with him behind his back, that upon every little cross acci- dentwhich happens in their way, Death is immediately called upon; and they even wish it might be lawful for them to finish by their 6wn hands a life so odious, so perpetually tormenting and vexatious. When, let but Death only offer to make his appearance, and the very sense of his near approach almost does the business : Oh, then all they want is a little longer life; and they would be glad to come off so well as to have their old burthen laid upon their shoulders again. One may well conclude what an utter aversion they,who are in youth, health, and vigour of body, have to dying, when age, poverty and wretchedness, are not sufiicient to recon- cile us te the thought. FABLE LXVIL. Zhe Lion in Lov. hp fil ¢ Hi Mra : i : il | LL — — ll JL ¥ : Anash Hii mn —— Tur Lion by chance saw a fair maid, the fo- rester’s daughter, as she was tripping over a : . L TC lawn, and fell in love with her. Nay, so violent ESOP’S FABLES. 119 was his passion, that he could not live unless he made her his own; so that without any more’ delay, he broke hig’ ‘mind to the father, and demanded the damsel for his wife. The man, as odd as the pro- yosal” seemed at. first, yet soon recollected, that by complying, he might get the Lion into his power ; but, by refusing him, should only exasperate and provoke his rage. Therefore he coosented ; but told him it must be upon these conditions : that, consi- ‘dering the girl was young and tender, he must agree to let his teeth be plucked out and his claws cut off, lest he should hurt her, or at least frighten her with the apprehension of them. The Lion was too much in love to hesitate; but was no sooner deprived of his teeth and claws, than the treacherous Iorester attacked him with a huge club, and knocked his brains out. THE APPLICATION. Of all the ill consequences that may attend that blind passion, love, seldom any prove so fatal as that one of its drawing people into a suddenand iil-concerted marriage. They commit a rash action in the midst of a fit of madness, of which, as soon as they come to themselves, they may find reason to repent as long as they live. Many an unthinking young fellow bas been treated as much like a savage in this respect, as the Lion in the fable. He has, perhaps, had nothing valuable belonging to him, but his estate, and the wri- tings which made his title to it ; and if he is so far cap- tivated, as to be persuaded to part with these, his teeth and his claws are gone, and he lies entirely at the mercy of madam and her relations. All the favour he is to expect after this, is from the accidental goodness of the family he falls into; which, if it happen to be of a particular strain, will not fail to keep him in a distant subjection, after they have stripped him of all his power. Nothing but a true friendship, and a mu- tual interest®™ can keep up reciprocal love betwixt the TE —_— -~, 120 ASOP’S FABLES. conjugal pair; and when that is wanting, and nothing but contempt and aversion remain. to supply the place, matrimony becomes a downright state of enmity and hostility; and what a miserable case he must be in, who has put himself and his whole power into the hands of his enemy ; let those consider, who, while they are in their sober senses, abhor the thoughts of being be- trayed into their ruin, by following the impulse of a blind unheeding passion. FABLE LXVIII. The LioNgss and the Fox. in iiisea. mantbnas Tue Lioness and the Fox meeting together, fell into discourse, and the conversation turn- ing upon the breeding and the fruitfulness of some living creatures above others, the Fox could not forbear taking the opportunity of observing to the Lioness, That, for her part, she thought Foxes were as happy in that respect as almost any other creatures; for that they bred constantly once a year, if not oftener, and always had a good litter of cubs at every birth: and yet, says she, there are those who are never delivered of more ASOP’S FABLES. 121 than one at a time; and that perhaps not above once or twice through their whole life, who hold up their noses, and value themselves so much upon it, that they think all other creatures beneath them and scarce worthy to be spoken to. The Lioness, who all the while perceived at whom this reflection point- ed, was fired with resentment, and with a good deal of vehemence replied: What you have observed may be true, and that not without reason. You produce a great many at a litter, and often; but what are they ? Foxes. I indeed have but one at a time, but you should remember that this one 1s a Lion. THE APPLICATION. Our productions, of whatsoever kind, are not to be esteemed so much by the quantity as the quality of them. It is not being employed much, but well, and to the purpose, which makes us useful to the age we live in, and celebrated by those which are to come. As it is a misfortune to the countries which are infested with them, for foxes and other vermin to multiply ; se one cannot help throwing out a melancholy reflection, when one sees some particulars of the human kind in- crease so fast as they do. But the most obvious mean- ing of this fable, is the hint it gives us in relation to authors. These gentlemen should never attempt to raise themselves a reputation, by enumerating a catalogue of their productions. Since there is more glory in having written one tolerable piece, than a thousand indifferent ones. And whoever has had the good fortune to please in one performance of this kind, should be very cau- tious how he ventures his reputation in a second. 122 ZSOP’'S FABLES. FABLE LXIX. The Sta: and the Fawn. or TE Rs tT RRA A SRR E IT E I I arrenny (h ATE rn iness ie Jti sss perf IR IRR RRRR RRs 3 7 CERIN Renee : IIRL RRR IRE RRERT i Ma lea Wane 15 - a i" : = : . jiinIie nina er I i in HL = a Cin HEH Ha 1 (<2 “30 Rk RN Sparring Hiring LS =X SHH HE ft © SGI) N on i : rr 2 SEF 111d I == : pr SR RN A irigr A ". EE % a E F 2 y: y ' . al ! > 3 . =. : * esa = hE oh me AC X A SE a § < 3 ; A _ertTIIIIILIENR LRRD RNID e¥NrEIRItIt Amn IR ennRsY A Stag, grown old and mischievous, was, ac- cording to custom, stamping with his foot, mak- ing offers with his head, and bellowing so terribly, that the whole herd quaked for fear of him : when one of the little Fawns coming up, addressed him to this purpose: Pray, what is the reason that you, who are so stout and formidable at all other times, if you do but hear the cry of the hounds, are ready to dy out of your skin for fear? What you observe is true, replied the Stag, though I know not how to account for it : I am mdeed vigorous and able enough, I think to make my party good any where, and often resolve with myself, that nothing shall ever dismay my courage for the future: but, alas! I no sooner hear the voice of a hound, but all my spirits fail me, and I cannot help making off as fast as my legs can carry me. AESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. This is the case of many a cowardly bully in the world. He is disposed to be imperious and tyrannical, and to insult his companions, and takes all opportunities of acting according to his inclinations; but yet is cau- tious where he makes his haunts, and takes care to have only to do with a herd of rascally people, as vile and mean as himself. A man of courage quashes him with a word; and he who has threatened death in every sen- tence, for a twelvemonth together, to those whom he knew it would affright, at the very frown of an intrepid man, has leapt out of a window. It is no unpleasant sight, to be present when any of these gentlemen happen to be disarmed of their terror before the face of their humble admirers: there is a strange, boisterous strug- gle, betwixtfear, shame, and revenge, which blinds them with confusion, and though they would fainexertalittle courage, and show themselves men, yet, they know not how, there is something within which will not suffer them to do it. The predominance of nature will show itself upon occasion, in its true colours, through all the disguises which artful men endeavour to throw over it. Cowardice, particularly, gives us but the more suspi- cion, when it would conceal itself under an affected fierceness; as they, who would smother an ill smell by a cloud of perfume, areimagined tobe butthe more offen- sive. When we have done all, Nature will remain what she was, and show herself whenever she is called up; therefore, whatever we do in contradiction to her laws 1s so forced and affected, that it must needs expose, and make us ridiculous. We talk nonsense when we would argue against it; like Teague, who being asked, Why he fled from his colours ? said, His heart was as good as any in the regiment, but protested his cowardly legs would run away with him, whatever he could do. 124 ZASOP’'S FABLES. FABLE LXX. The Young Man and the SwaLLow. il fii A Propicar young spendthrift, who had wasted his whole patrimony in taverns and gaming houses, among lewd, idle company, was taking a melancholy walk near a brook. It was in the month of January ; and happened to be one of those warm sunshiny days which sometimes shine upon us even in that winterly season of the year; and to make it more flattering, a Swallow, which had made his appeasanes, by mistake, too soon, flew skimming along upon the surface of the water. The giddy outh observing this, without any farther considera- tion, concluded that summer was now come, and that he should have little or no occasion for clothes, so went and pawned them at the broker's, and ven- tured the money for one stake more, among his sharp- ing companions. When this too was gone the same way with the rest, he took another solitary walk in the same place as before. But the weather being ASOP’S FABLES. 125 severe and frosty, had made every thing look with an aspect very different from what it did before; the brook was quite frozen over: and the poor Swallow lay dead upon the bank of it: the very sight of which cooled the young spark’s brains; and coming to a kind of sense of his misery, he reproached the deceased bird as the Author of all his misfortunes: Ah, wretch that thou wert! says he, thou hast undone both thy- self and me, who was so credulous as to depend upon thee. THE APPLICATION. They who frequent taverns and gaming-houses, and keep bad company, should not wonder if they are re- duced, in a very small time, to penury and want. The wretched young fellows who once addict themselves to such a scandalous kind of life, scarce think of, or attend to any one thing besides. They seem to have nothing else in their heads, but how they may squander what they have got, and where they may get more when that is gone. They do not make the same use of their rea- son that other people do: but like the jaundiced eye, view every thing in that false light in which their dis- temper and debauchery represent it. The young Man in the fable gives us a pretty example of this; he sees a swallow in the midst of winter, and instead of being surprised at it, as a very irregular and extraordinary thing, concludes from thence that itis summer, as if he had never thought before about the season. Well, the result of this wise conclusion is of a piece with the con- clusion itself; if it is summer, he shall not want 80 many clothes, therefore he sells them: For what? More mo- ney to squander away; as if (had this observation been just) summer would have lasted all the year round. But the true result and conclusion of all this is: when both his money and clothes are irrecoverably gone, he comes to his right senses; is ready to perish with bun- ger, to starve with cold, and to tear his own flesh with remorse and vexation at his former stupidity. 126 ZESOP’S FABLES. FABLE LXXI. The ANGLER and the LitTLE Fism. ith 1 i ' yoo i Jt res . |] = s y = = QS ly i; It . p i ly I 8 - iS Ih Cy a en iid > ait — om “= { herd ol Lm os th iil A MAN wis angling in a river, and caught a small Perch; which, as he was taking off the hook, and going to put into his basket, opened his mouth, and began to implore his pity, begging that he would throw 1t into the river again. Upon the Man’s de- manding what reason he had to expect such a favour; Why, says the Fish, because, at present, I am but young and little, and consequently not so well worth your while, as I shall be, if you take me some time hence, when I am grown larger. That may be, re- plies the Man ; but I am not one of those fools who quit a certainty in expectation of an uncertainty. THE APPLICATION. This fable points much the same way as the sixty- fourth, so that one moral may very well serve for both. But the lesson they teach is so useful and instructive, that a repetition of itis by no means superfluous. The precept which they would instil into us is, never to let slip the present opportunity, but to secure to ourselves every little advantage, just in the nick that it offers, ESOP’S FABLES. 127 without a vain reliance upon, and fruitless expectation of something better in time to come. We may cheer up our spirits with hoping for that which we cannot at present obtain; but, at the same time, let us be sure we give no occasion of condemning ourselves for omitting any thing which it was in our power to secure. FABLE LXXII. The Ass and the Lion HUNTING. Tue Lion to the Ass; and, to make him the more useful, gave him instructions to hide himself in a thicket, and then to bray in the most frightful manner that he could possibly contrive. By this means, says he, you will rouse all the beasts within the hearing of you ; while I stand at the outlets, and take them as they are mak- ing off. This was done; and the stratagem took ef- fect accordingly. The Ass brayed most hideously ; and the timorous beasts not knowing what to make of it, began to scour off as fast as they could; when the Lion, who was posted at a proper avenue, seized and devoured them, as he pleased. Having got his belly full, he called out to the Ass, and bid him leave off, 128 AESOP’S FABLES. telling him, he had done enough. Upon this the lop-eared brute came out of his ambush, and ap- proaching the Lion, asked him, with an air of con- ceit, how he liked his performance. Prodigiously ; says he: you did it so well, that I protest, had I not known your nature and temper, I might have been frighted myself. THE APPLICATION. A bragging cowardly fellow may impose upon people that do not know him; but is the greatest jest imagin- able to those that do. There are many men, who ap- pear very terrible and big in their manner of expressing themselves, and, if you could be persuaded to take their own word for it, are perfect Lions ; who, if one takes the pains to inquire a little into their true nature, are as arrant asses as ever brayed. FABLE LXXIII. The SensiBLE Ass. Ax old fellow was feeding an Ass in a fine green meadow ; and being alarmed with the sudden ap- proach of the enemy, was impatient with the Ass to put himself forward, and fly with all the speed that he was able. The Ass asked him, Whether or -1 ZASOP'S FABLES. 129 no ‘he thought the enemy would clap two pair of pan- niers upon his back ? The man said, No, there was no fear of that. Why then, said the Ass, I will not stir an inch, for what 1s 1t to me who my master 1s, since I shall but carry my panniers, as usual ? TilE APPLICATION. This fable shows us, how much in the wrong the poorer sort of people most commonly are, when they are under any concern about the revolutions of a govern- ment. All the alteration which they can feel is, per- haps, in the name of their sovereign, or some such im- portant trifle: but they cannot well be poorer, or made to work harder than they did before. And yet how are they sometimes imposed upon, and drawn in by the ar- tifices of a few mistaken or designing men to foment factions and raise rebellions, in cases where they can get nothing by the success; but if they miscarry, are in danger of suflering an ignominious, untimely death, FABLE LXXI1V. Z%e BoastiING TRAVELLER. I EG 5 IR Mr ———— hap TISTIITE OxE who had been abroad, at his return home again, was giving an account of his travels; and, among other places, said he had been at Rhodes, cb 130 ZASOP’S FABLES, where he had so distinguished himself in leaping, an exercise that city was famous for, that no Rhodian could come near him, When those who were present did not seem to credit this relation so readily as he intended they should, he took some pains to convince them of it by oaths and protestations ; upon which, one of the company Yising up, told him, he need not give himself so much trouble about it, since he would put him in a way to demonstrate it in fact : which was, to suppose the place they were in to be Rhodes, and to perform his extraordinary leap over again. The Boaster, not liking this proposal, sat down quietly, and had no more to say for himself. THE APPLICATION. It is very weak in all men, as well those who have travelled, as those who have not, to be solicitous with their company to believe them, when they are relating a matter of fact, in which they themselves were a party concerned. For the more urgent a man appears at such a time, in order to gain credit, the more his audience is apt to suspect the truth of what he relates. They per- ceive his vanity is touched more than his honour, and that it is his ability, not his veracity, which he cannot bear to have questioned. And, indeed, though a man . was ever so fully satisfied with such a truth himself, he should cousider, that he is still as far from being able to convince others, as if he were altogether ignorant of it. Therefore, in all cases, where proper vouchers are expected, we had better be contented to keep our ex- ploits to ourselves, than to appear ridiculous, by con- tending to have them believed. How much more, then, should travelled gentlemen have a care how they import lies and inventions of their own, from foreign parts, and attempt to vend them at home for staple truths. Every time they utter a falsehood, they are liable, not only to be suspected by the company in general, but to be de- tected and exposed by some particular person, who may have been at the same place, and, perhaps, know how to convict them of their forgery even to a demonstration. ZASOP’S FABLES. FABLE LXXV. The BroTHER and SISTER. 50 C7 RA SEAN SCH AT ARETE Wo WE da -. vesw'” —— DIIELII NL Lo A CerTarNy Man had two children, a Son and a Daughter. The Boy beautiful and handsome enough ; the Girl not quite so well. They were both very young, and happened one day to be play- ing near the looking-glass, which stood on their mother’s toilet : the Boy, pleased with the novelty of the thing, viewed himself for some time, and in 2 wanton, roguish manner, took notice to the Girl, how handsome he was. She resented it, and could not bear the insolent manner in which he did it; for she understood it (as how could she do otherwise 7) intended for a direct affront to her. Therefore she yan immediately to her father, and, with a great deal of aggravation, com lained of her brother ; particu- larly for having acted so effeminate a part as to look in a glass, or meddle with things which belonged to women only. The father aiibipeing them both, with much tenderness and affection told them, that 132 ASOP’S FABLES. he should like to have them both look in the glass every day ; to the intent that you, says he to the Boy, if you think that face of yours handsome, may not disgrace and spoil it by an ugly temper and a foul behaviour. You, says he, speaking to the Girl, that you may make up for the defects of your person, if there be any, by the sweetness of your manners and the agreeableness of your conversation. THE APPLICATION. There is scarce any thing we see in the world, espe- cially what belongs to, and hangs about our own per- son, but is capable of affording us matter for some se- rious and useful consideration. And this fable, notwith- standing the scene of it is laid at the very beginning and entrance of life, yet utters a doctrine worthy the attention of every stage and degree thereof, from the «child to the old man. Let each of us take a glass, and ~~v- himself considerately. He that is vain and self- co ited, will find beauties in every feature, and his whole shape will be without fault. Let it be so: yet, if he would be complete, he must take care that the inward man does not detract from and disgrace the outward ; that the depravity of his manners does not spoil his face, nor the wrongness of his behaviour dis- tort his limbs ; or, which is the same thing, make his whole person odious and detestable to the eye of his beholders. Is any one modest in this respect, and de- ficient of himself? Or has he indeed blemishes and im perfections, which may depreciate him in the sight of mankind ? Let him strive to improve the faculties of the mind, where perhaps nature has not cramped him ; and to excel in the beauties of a good temper and an agreeable conversation, the charms of which are so much more lasting and unalterably endearing, than those of the other sort. They who are beautiful in erson have this peculiar advantage, that, with a mo- Yo regard to complaisance and good manners, they ASOP’S FABLES. 133 bespeak every one’s opinion in their favour. But then, be the outside of a man ever so rough and uncouth, if his acquired accomplishments are but sweet and en- gaging, how easily do we overlook the rest, and value him, like an oriental jewel, not by a glittering outside, which is common to baser stones, but by his intrinsic worth, his bright imagination, his clear reason, and the transparent sincerity of his honest heart! FABLE LXXVI. The CoLLIER and the FULLER. Tre Collier and the Fuller being old acquaintances, happened upon a time to meet together ; and the latter, being ill provided with a habitation, was invited b the former to come and live in the same house wit him. I thank you, my dear friend, replied the Fuller, for your kind offer, but it cannot be : for if I were to dwell with you, whatever I should take pains to scour and make clean in the morning, the dust of you and your coals would blacken and defile as bad as ever be- fore night. ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. It is of no small importance in life to be cautious what company we keep, and with whem we enter into friendships ; for though we are ever so well-disposed ourselves, and happen to be ever so free from vice and debauchery, yet, if ‘those with whom we frequently converse are engaged in a lewd, wicked course, it will be almost impossible for us to escape being drawn in with them. If we are truly wise, and would shun those syren rocks of pleasure, upon which so many have split before us, we should forbid ourselves all manner of commerce and correspondence with those who are steering a course, which reason tells us is not only not for our advantage, but would end in our destruction, All the virtue we can boast of will not be sufficient to insure us, if we embark in bad company : for though our philosophy were such, as we could preserve our- selves from being tainted and infected with their man- ners, yet their character would twist and entwine itself along with ours, in so intricate a fold, that the world would not take the trouble to unravel and separate them. Reputations are of a subtle insinuating texture, like water; that which is derived from the clearest spring, if it chances to mix with a foul current, runs on, undistinguished, in one muddy stream, for the fu- ture, and must for ever partake of the colour and gous dition of its associate. ZASOP’S FABLES. 135 FABLE LXXVII. 7Ve Fox and the VIZoR«MasK. Ths P i aay — i JN 57 Tl Ee 3 Wo 1A \ AN un at rl ol 0 A Fo: 0x, ar in a a where Vizor-masks were sold, laid his foot upon one of them, and considering it a "while attentively, at last broke out into this ex- clamation: Bless me! says he, what a handsome goodly figure this makes! what pity is it that it should want brains ! THE APPLICATION, This is levelled at that numerous part of mankind, who, out of their ample fortunes, take care to accom= plish themselves with every thing but common-sense. In short, the whole world is a masquerade ; and a man of a tolerable talent for obsekvation may entertain himself as well at the mixed assemblies he meets with in life, as at the most magnificent and expensive revels provided and ordered for that purpose. Many of the faces one meets with among the gay frolicksome part of our species ; if searched for brains, would appear as arrant Vizors as that in the fable. ZSOP’S FABLES. FABLE LXXVIII. The Two Froas. OxE hot sultry summer, the lakes and ponds being almost every where dried up, a couple of Frogs agreed to travel together in search of water. At last they came to a deep well, and sitting upon the brink of it, began to consult whether they should leap in or no. One of them was for it; urging, that there was plenty of clear spring water, and no danger of being disturbed. Well, says the other, all this may be true; and yet 1 cannot come into your opinion for my life; for, if the water should happen to dry up here too, how should we get out again ? THE APPLICATION. The moral of this fable is intended to put us in mind to look before we leap. That we should not undertake any action of importance, without considering first, what the event of it is like to prove, and how we shall be able to come off upon such and such provisos. A good general does not think he diminishes any thing of his character, when he looks forward beyond the AESOP’S FABLES. 137 main action, and concerts measures, in case there should be occasion, for a safe retreat. How many un- fortunate matches are struck up every day for want of this wholesome consideration! Profuse living and ex- travagant gaming, both which terminate in the ruin of those that follow them, are mostly owing to a neglect of this precaution. Wicked counsellors advise, and ig- norant princes execute those things which afterwards they often dearly repent. Wars are begun by this blind stupidity, from which a state is not able to extri- cate itself, with either honour or safety ; and projects are encouraged by the rash accession of those who never considered how they were to get out, till they had plunged themselves irrecoverably into them. FABLE LXXIX. The CovETous Man. Sg i ER Ce BR og [Ga or 4 A Poor covetous wretch, who had scraped to- gether a good parcel of money, went and du a hole in one of his fields, and hid it. The great pleasure of his life was to go and look upon this treasure once a day, at least ; which one of his ser- vants observing, and guessing there was something more than ov Ty in the place, came at night, 138 ASOP’S FABLES. found it, and carried it off. The next day, return- ing as usual to the scene of his delight, and per- cetving it had been ravished away from him, he tore his hair for grief, and uttered the doleful com- plaints of his despair to the woods and meadows. At last, a neighbour of his, who knew his temper, overhearing him, and. being informed of the occa- sion of his sorrow, Cheer up, man! says he, thou hast lost nothing: there is the hole for thee to go and peep at still; and if thou canst but fancy thy money there, it will do just as well. THE APPLICATION. Of all the appetites to which human nature is sub« ject, none is so lasting, so strong,and at the same time so unaccountable as that of avarice. Our other desires generally cool and slacken at the approach of old age; but this flourishes under grey hairs, and triumphs amidst impotence andrinfirmity. All our other longings have something to be said in excuse for them, let them be at what time of life soever. Butit is above reason, and therefore truly incomprehensible, why a man should be passionately fond of money, only for the sake of gazing upon it. His treasureis as useless to him as a heap of oyster-shells ; for though he knows how many substantial pleasures it is able to procure, yet he dares not touch it; and is as destitute of money, to all in- tents and purposes, as the man who is not worth a groat. This is the true state of a covetous person; to which one of the fraternity may possibly make this reply, that when we have said all, since pleasure is the grand aim of life, if there arises a delight to some particular persous from the bare possession of riches, though they do not, nor ever intend to make use of them, we may be puzzled how to account for it, and think it very strange, but ought not absolutely to con- demn the men who thus closely, but innocently, pur- sue what they esteem the greatest happiness. True; people would be in the wrong to paint Covetousness in AESOP’S FABLES. 139 such odious colours, were it but compatible with inno- cence. But here arises the mischief, a truly covetous man will stick at nothing to attain his ends; and, when once Avarice takes the field, Honesty, Charity, Huma- nity, and, to be brief, every virtue which opposes it, is sure to be put to the rout. IL FAB. LXXX. Zhe E4GLE, the Car, and the Sow. gat ———— AN Eagle had built her nest upon the top branches of an old Oak. A wild Cat inhabited a hole in the middle; and in the hollow part at the bottom was a Sow, with a whole litter of Pigs. A happy neighbourhood ; and might long have continued so, had it not been for the wicked insinuations of the Sesipiing Cat. Tor, first of all, up she crept to the Eagle ; and, Good neighbour, says she, we shall be all undone: that filthy Sow yonder does nothing but lie routing at the foot of the tree, and, as I suspect, mtends to grub it up, that she may the more easily come at our young ones. For my part, I will take care of my own concerns ; you may doas you please, 140 ASOP’S FABLES. but I will watch her motions, though I stay at home this month for it. When she had said this, which could not fail of putting the Eagle into a great fright, down she went, and made a visit to the Sow at the bottom: and, putting on a sorrowful face, I hope, says she, you do rot intend to go abroad to-day? Why not ? says the Sow. Nay, replies the other, you may do as you please; but I overheard the Eagle tell her young ones, that she, would treat them with a Pig, the first time she saw you go out; and IT am not sure but she may take up with a Kitten in the mean time ; so, good morrow to you; you will excuse me, T must go and take care of the little folks at home. Away she went accordingly ; and by contriving to steal out softly a nights for her prey, and to stand watching and peeping all day at her hole, as under great concern, she made such an impression upon the Eagle and the Sow, that neither of them dared venture abroad for fear of the other.- The conse- quence of which was, that themselves, and their young ones, in a little time, were all starved, and made prizes of, by the treacherous Cat and her Kittens. THE APPLICATION. This shows us the ill consequence which may attend the giving ear to a gossiping double-tongued neigh- bour. The mischiefs occasioned by such a credulity are innumerable, and too notorious not to be observed every where. Many sociable, well-disposed families have been blown up into a perpetual discord and aver- sion to each other, by one of these wicked go-betweens. So that, whoever would thoroughly acquit himself of the imputation of being a bad neighbour, should guard himself both against ill impressions by hearsay, and uttering his opinion of others to those inquisitive busy- bodies, who, in case of scandal, can magnify a gnattothe size of a camel, and swell amole-hill up toa mountain, AZSOP’S FABLES. FABLE LXXXI. The Goar and the Lion. Tm a = Tue Lion seeing a Goat upon a steep craggy rock, where he could not come at him, asked him, What delight he could take to skip from one preapie to aor, all day, and venture the break- g of his neck every moment: I wonder, says he you will not come down, and feed on the plain here, where there is such plenty of good grass and fine sweet herbs. Why, replies the Goat, I cannot but say your opinion is right ; but you look so very hun- gry and designing, that, to tell you the truth, I do not care .to venture my person where you are. : THE APPLICATION. _ Advice, though good initself, is to be suspected when #t is given by a tricking self-interested man. Perhaps we should take upon ourselves not only a very great but an unnecessary trouble, if we are to suspect every man who goes to advise us; but this, however, is neces= sary, that when we have reason to question any one, in point of honour and justice, we not only consider well 142 'ESOP’S FABLES. before we suffer ourselves to be persuaded by him, but even resolve to have nothing to do in any affair, where such treacherous, slippery sparks are concerned, if we can avoid it with much convenience. The LioN and the Frog. - dared Tue Lion, hearing an odd kind of a hollow voice, and seeing nobody, started up; he listened again, and perceiving the voice to continue, even trembled and quaked for fear. At last, seeing a Frog crawl out of the lake, and finding that the noise he had heard, was nothing but the croaking of that little creature, he went up to it, and partly out of anger, partly contempt, spurned it to pieces with his feet. THE APPLICATION. This fable is a pretty image of the vain fears and empty terrors with which our weak ilsryided BRUTE is so apt tobe alarmed and distracted. If we hear 2 ever so little noise, which we arenot able to account for immediately, nay often before we give Oulvelv Es time: to consider about it, we are struck with fear, and abour under a most unranly, unreasonable trepidation ; more dig ZAZSOP’S FABLES. 143 especially if the alarm happens when we are alone, and in the dark. These notions are ingrafted in our minds very early; we suck them in with our nurse’s milk’; and thereforeit is the more difficult, when we are grown up, and ashamed of them, to root them out of our na- ture. But in order to it, it is well worth our while to observe, that the most learned, the most ingenious, and candid writers, in all ages, haveridiculed and exploded the belief of such phantoms, as the weaker part of mankind are apt to be terrified with; intimating, that goblins, spectres, apparitions, fairies, ghosts, &c. were invented by knaves to frighten the fools with. Fear 1s a natural passion; and its use is, to put. us upon our guard against danger, by alarming the spirits. Now all passions should be kept in a state of subjection ; for though they are good, useful servants, yet, if once they get the better, they prove the most domineeriug tyrants imaginable; nor do any of them treat us in so slavish and abject a manner as that of fear. It un- nerves and enfeebles our limbs, precipitates or fetters our understanding: and, at the same time that it re- presents a dangernear at hand, disarms, and makes us incapable of defending ourselves against it. This is the case, even in respect of real dangers, as fire, thieves, or violent enemies ; and, even in this case, a man of either sense or honour would be ashamed to be detected in such a weakness. But when the cause of ouralarm is groundless, and subsists no where but in our own childish imaginations, we should not only take care how we expose ourselves upon that account, but re solve to man our understanding with reason and forti- tude enough to maintain it against the attacks of every little imaginary phantom. Even those who have thoroughly reasoned the point, may yet retain some- thing of the old woman in their minds, which having taken root too deep to be entirely plucked out, may sometimes surprise themin an unguarded moment, and make them startlike the Lionin the fable; but then they presently recollect themselves, and, as he did, treat the cause of their delusion with the utmost contempt. JESOP’S FABLES. FABLE LXXXIIIL The FIR-TREE and the BRAMELE. A Tarw straight Fir-tree, that stood gy in the midst of a forest, was so proud o i y d the little 1 d high station, that he overlooke t ee beneath a A Bestabie, bosg one of the inferior throng, cou y n a is haughty carriage, and therefore took hi Be oe in what he Shey IY a Bocas, the Fir-tree, I look upon myself a t cid acy and rank, of Soy of the jo A into the clouds, and my es a perpetual beauty and radu while you lie groveling upon the ground, fables " crushed by every fool that comes near You, ad Bp verished by the Jassuzions | droppings ¥hich Ll . All this may be true, re De the oan ies marked you out or p- lic use, and the sounding axe comes to be app i o your root, I am mistaken if you will not be glad change conditions with the very worst of us. AESOP’S FABLES, THE APPLICATION. If the great were to reckon upon the mischiefs to which they are exposed, and poor private men consi- der the dangers which they many times escape, purely by being so, notwithstanding the seeming difference there appears to be between them, it would be no such casy matter, as most people think it, to determine which condition is the more preferable. A reasonable man would declare in favour of the latter, without the least hesitation, as knowing upon what a steady and safe security it is established. For the higher a man is exalted, the fairer mark he gives, and the more un- likely he is to escape a storm. What little foundation, therefore, has the greatest favourite of fortune to be- have himself with insolence to those below him, whose circumstances, thongh he is so elated with pride as to despise them, are, in the eye of every prudent man, more eligible than his own, and such as he himself, when the day of account comes, will wish he had never exceeded? For as the riches which many over- srown great ones call the goods of fortune, are seldom any other than the goods of the public, which they have imprudently and feloniously taken, so public justice generally overtakes them in the end ; and, what- ever their life may have been, their death is as ignomi- nious and unpitied; as that of the meanest and most obscure thief, A ————— re. 3 ro pi IRE shay a Sp RL ce - ee | ESOP’S FABLES. ESOP’S FABLES, 147 world, a sort of wretches of this vile temper, that wait (XXIV. The Burr and the Goat. for an opportunity of aggravating their neighbour’s af- FABLE LXXXIV. Z fliction, and defer the execution of their evil inclinations until they can do it to the best advantage. Ifany one labours under an expensive law-suit, lest he should es- cape from that, one of these gentlemen will take care to arrest him in a second action ; hoping, at least, to keep him at bay, while the more powerful adversary attacks him on the other side, One cannot consider this temper, without observing something remarkably cowardly in it: for these whiffling antagonists never begin their encounter, til] they are sure the person they aim at is already overmatched. FABLE LXXXV. The Fowrer and the BLACKBIRD. a i oe A cert] a ania - . » Lion, made to- Tite Bull being De ied to Sous Words 08 ahr. opposed just a the rns ’ : e10Y 9 Goze, ho > BL vith his horns, Sobre x On odhsputc the pass with him. The Bu f this Solved to Bape 10 time to lose in a contest of i thought he ate] made off again; but tolc fs nature, Ahmet: "A for fear of him or his defiane 1d Qua, sha kr he Lion were not so near, I i ron know the difference between a DW soon and a Goat. THE APPLICATION. succour and comfort to Ee FowrLer was It is very inhumane to Sony nse them, and to add tackle in order by the side of a copse, when people in tribulation ; het itunes, is something super- a Blackbird, who saw him, had the curiosity to en- to the weight Se There is, however, inthe B guive what he was doin latively brutish ¢ | 8. Says he, I am building H 2 placing his nets, and putting his ESOP’S FABLES. a city for you birds to live in; and providing it with meat, and all manner of conveniences for you. Hav- ing said this, he departed and hid himself; and the Blackbird, believing the words, came into the nets, and was taken. But when the Man came up to take hold of him, If this, says he, be your faith and hones- ty, and these the cities you build, I am of opinion, you will have but few inhabitants. THE APPLICATION. Methinks this Fowler acted a part very like that which some rulers of the people do, when they tell them, that the projects, which they have contrived with a separate view, and for their own private interests, are laid for the benefit of all that come into them. And to such the Blackbird truly speaks, when he affirms, that erectors of such schemes will find but few to stick by them at the long run. We exclaim against it, as some- thing very base and dishonest, when those of a differ- ent nation, and even our enemies, break the faith which they have publicly plighted, and tricked us out of our properties. But what must we call it when governors themselves circumvent their own people, and, contrary to the terms upon which they are admitted to govern, contrive ‘traps and gins to catch and ensnare them in. Such governors may succeed in their plot the first time, but must not be surprised, if those who have once es- caped their clutches, never have opinion enough of them to trust them for the future. OxcE upon mind to adopt, a time the Heathen gods had a Le i nto their 5 V - nus was pleased to name the Myrtle ; Apollo pi upon the Laurel; Cybele oh the Pir wl Hr Ee ile.” Pills, tng as Ye z ¥> mn making choice of 0% Oh oor Bailing O, says J upiter, the reason toh iy ain Dong , for we would not be thought 2s p 8 our favours with any mercenary view. 2 py o as J please, says she, but let the Olive a y tree; and I declare my reason for choosing it is, ‘ ause 1t bears plenty of noble useful fruit. Upon which the Thunderer, putting on a serious er sed gravity, spoke thus to the goddess : Todo aughter, it is not without justice, that you are so celebrated for your wisdom; for unless a benefit attend your actions, to perform them only for the sake of glory, is but a silly business. 150 ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. This fable is to put us in mind, that we shauid in. tend something useful and pease) in all ot actions i 7] other view, undertake things with no er view, but t Tow glory, whatever some curious Se ° nay fancy, is employing our time after a very idle, gush ir The Almighty created the world out o infinite goodness, for the good of his clagiizns on not i -v : which is a vain, silly, m assion for glory ; whic va 3 : or le. And when we talk of glorifying the Author bt pi) Being, if we think reasonably, we must foseh i i to him, by imitating this good- showing our gratitude | hs good- i y and endeavouring f his, as far as we are able, anc gio Dagon good or other the aim of all our under 2 Kin s. For if empty glory be unworthy the puto a es man, how vastly improper must it be to make an offering of it to an All-wise Deity! ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE LXXXVIIL. The Fox and the Brauer, in RE LL i Hi Ji us at itl! in A Fox, hard pressed by the Hounds, was getting over a hedge, but tore his foot upon a Bramble which grew just in the midst of it; upon which he reproached the Bramble for his inhospitable cruelty, in using a stranger, which had fled to him for pro- tection, after such a barbarous manner. Yes, says the Bramble, you intended to have made me serve your turn, I know ; but take this piece of advice with you for the future, never lay hold of a Bramble again, as you tender your sweet person; for layin hold, is a privilege that belongs to us Brambles, an we do not care to let it go out of the family, THLE APPLICATION. Impertinent people, who are most apt to take liber= ties with others, are generally the most surprised, if they are retorted upon with any severity ; though they, of all people, have the least reason to expect quarter. It cannot but be pleasant to indifferent spectators, when they see one of this fraternity meet with his match, and beaten at his own weapons. ~ He that is known to be an ill man, may be hurt unpitied ; his misfortunes are 152 ESOP’S FABLES. conferred upon him to the satisfaction of him that oc- casions them; and we do not look upon him as an ob- ject of pity, but an example of justice. This fable has an eye to a moral which has been already drawn from some others; and advises us to be cautious whom we lay hold on, or meddle with, in too familiar a way ; for those who can lay hold again, and perhaps are better qualified for itthan ourselves, are carefully to be avoided. FABLE LXXXVIII. “Z%e Car and the MIcE. {i A CerTAIN house was much infested with Mice ; but at last they got a Cat, who catched and ate every day some of them. The Mice, finding their numbers grow thin, consulted what was best to be done for the preservation of the public, from the jaws of the devouring Cat. They debated, and came to this resolution that no one should go down below the upper shelf. The Cat, observing the Mice no longer came down as usual, hungry and disappointed of her prey, had recourse to this stratagem ; 4 hung by her hind legs on a peg which stuck" in the wall, and made as if she had heen dead, hoping by this ESOP’S FABLES. 153 lure to entice the Mice to come down. She had not been in this posture long, before a cunning old Mouse peeped over the edge of the shelf, and spoke thus : Aha, my good friend, are you there? there you may be! I would not trust myself with you, though your skin were stuffed with straw. THE APPLICATION. Prudent folks never irust those a second time, who have deceived them once. And, indeed, we cannot well be too cautious in following this rule, for, upon examination, we shall find, that most of the misfortunes which befal us, proceed from our too great credulity. They that know how to suspect, without exposing or hurting themselves, till honesty comes to be more in fashion, can never suspect too much. FABLE LXXXIX. ZThe Fox and the COUNTRYMAN. [i i Ee El [Eh lng i il A | : TN A Fox being hard hunted, and having run a2 long chase, was quite tired; at last he spied a Country fellow in a wood, to whom he applied for a5 AL A Sc A as. N/ p-/ 154 ESOP’'S FABLES. refuge, entreating that he would give him leave to hide himself in his cottage, till the Roma were gone by. The Man consented, and the Fox went and co- vered himself up close in a corner of the hovel. Pre- sently the hunters came up, and enquired of the Man, if he had seen the Fox. No, says he, I have not seen him indeed : but all the while he pointed with his finger to the place where the 1'ox was hid. How- ever, the hunters did not undérstand him, but called off their hounds, and went another way. Soon after, the Fox, creeping out of his hole, was going to sneak off; when the Man, calling after him, asked him, if that was his manners, to go away without thanking his benefactor, to whose fidelity he owed his life. Rey- nard, who had peeped all the while, and seen what passed, answered, I know what obligations I have to y= well enough ; and I assure you, if your actions ad but been agreeable to your words, 1 should have endeavoured, however incapable of it, to have return- ed you suitable thanks. THE APPLICATION. Sincerity is a most beautiful virtue; but there are some, whose natures are so poor-spirited and cowardly, that they are not capable of exertingit. Indeed, unless a man be steady and constant in all his actions, he will hardly deserve the name of sincere. An open enemy, though more violent and terrible, is not, however, so odious and detestable as a false friend. To pretend to . keep another’s counsel, and appear in their interest, while underhand we are giving intelligence to their enemies, is treacherous, knavish, and base. There are some people in the world very dexterous at this kind of defamation; and can, while they seem most vehement in the commendation or defence of a friend, throw out a hint which shall stab their reputation deeper than the most malicious weapon, brandished at them in a public manner, could have been capable of doing. i... ESOP’S FABLES. 1556 FABLE XC. 4 Max bit by a Doc. eo —————————————————/—— —— - soartagreniey — | ~ Yili | i /! i iiies et Hi ee ———— ars i AA———— ———— i —. A ——e—a—-— 5 ——— | of Th d gi fl 3 aff i apt il i A Max, who had been sadly torn by a Dog, was advised by some old woman, as a Cure to dip a piece of bread in the wound, and give it the cur that bit him. He did so; and sop, happening to pass by just at the same time, asked him what he meant by it; the Man informed him: Why then, says Atsop, doit as privately as you cam, I beseech you ; for if the rest of the Dogs of the town were to see you, we should all be ate up alive by them. TUE APPLICATION. Nothing contributes so much to the increase of roguery, as when the undertakings of a rogue are at< tended with success. If it were not for fear of punish- ment, a great part of mankind, who now make a shift to keep themselves honest, would appear great villains: at if criminals, instead of meeting with punishments, were, by having been such, to attain honour and ment, our natural inclinations to mischief would beri B proved, and we should be wicked out of oe b egg Pr SRP SI i ————— TE — ET ——— : -y hy 156 ZESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XCI. Fonrtu~E and the Boy. TT oN i TET En i” = [atititlidi ee Wf i] a oF Img IW : a Sh FR | Ih ly {i i mh if 4f fi (ll " ny! 4 1 1 if " 2 UL NI LE. i bl edie! SE mn A Boy was sleeping by the side of a well. Fortune saw him, and came and waked him : saying, Prithee, ood Child, do not lie sleeping here; for if you should fn in, nobody would imputeit to you, but lay all the blame upon me, Fortune. THE APPLICATION. Poor Fortune has a great deal thrown upon her in- deed ; and oftentimes very unjustly too. Those of our actions which are attended with success, though often owing to some accident or other, we ascribe, without any scruple, to some particular merit or good quality in ourselves; but when any of our doings miscarry, though probably through our own insufficiency or neg- lect, all the ill consequences’ is imputed to Fortune, and we acquit ourselves of having contributed any thing towards it. The silliest part of each sex, when they dispose of themselves indiscreetly or disadvan- tagequsly in marriage, and have nothing else to say ik ei A ASOP’S FABLES. in excuse, cry out, O, there is a fate in every thing, and there is no resisting fate, &c. But these people should take notice, that, as they have a very good pro- verb on their side, in relation to Fortune already, it is highly unreasonable in them to claim more than their share, and to ascribe the ill success of their own foolish negociations to the management of Fortune. Probably, the first occasion of confining the smiles of Fortune to people of this stamp more particularly, might arise from the improbability of their succeeding by anyart or right application of their own. And, therefore, by an opposite rule, the wise and industrious only should be entitled to ill luck, and have it in their power to charge Fortune with every loss and cross which befals them : for if, when they have concerted their measures judi- ciously, and been vigilant and active in their business, matters refuse still to answer expectation, they must be allowed to have very hard fortune: but fools have not the least right ta take hold of this handle. ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE XCIL. Zhe MuLE. » —- a ih y § SL) = ail ji i : oe di ii ccs j un a ‘eid A Mure, which was well fed, and worked lise, grew fat and wanton, and firisked about 3 ery Boles And why should not I yun as well as the yest 0 fun says he: it is well known I had a horse © my 1 ¥ : and a very good racer he was. Soon a ter : us, master took him out, and being upon 3 gen Ho” wi whipped and spurred the Mule, to make a. yu ward ; who bogus ” tire on 2 oy 8 4 ge his note, and said to himseil, An the horse's blood you boasted of but now 2 I on 50 : y to say it friend, but indeed your worthy si Ass, and not a Horse. THE APPLICATION. i i ture ¢ hich their blood may beat, one may Venti to BR be but mongrels, and asses i ealith who make a bustle about their genealogy. 5 “ome the world should be vain enough to think they ca /ESOP’S FABLES. 159 rive their pedigree from one of the old Roman families, and being otherwise destitdte of merit, would fain draw some from thence; it might'not be improper upon such an occasion to put them in mind, that Romulus, the first founder of that peaple, was base-born, and the body of his subjects made up of outlaws, murderers, and felons, the scum and off-scouring of the neighbouring nations, and that they propagated their descendants by rapes. As a man truly great shines sufficiently bright of him- self without wanting to be emblazoned by a splendid aucestry ; so they, whose lives are eclipsed by foulness or obscurity, instead of showing to an advantage, look but the darker for being placed in the same line with their illustrious forefathers. FABLE XCII). Tre Fox and the drg: TART TY Tis ARLE AI EEL Ee T asset hin] Tidaicrarimennish ' TIssenanal, > PRRRIRANLNEN Tstisisnnnm, * s¥i; / il i — ibid ii) | Ax Old Woman saw an empty Cask lying, from which there had been lately drawn a piece of choice racy palm sack ; the spirit of which yet hung about the vessel, and the very lee yielded a grateful cordial scent. She applied her nose to the bung- hole, and snuffing very heartily for some time, at last broke out into this exclamation: Oh! the de- licious smell ; how good, how charming good must you have been once, when your very dregs are so agreeable and refreshing ? THE APPLICATION. Pheedrus was an old man when he wrote his fables, and this he applies to himself; intimating, what we ought to judge of his youth, when his old age was ca- pable of such productions. But sure this is a piece of vanity that diminishes something of the.good savour of ESOP’S FABLES. an agreeable old man ; and it had been handsomer to have left us to make the application for him. It is, at once, a pleasing and a melancholy idea, which is given us by the view of an old man, or woman, whose con- versation is relishing and agreeable. We cannot for- bear representing to ourselves, how inexpressibly charming those must have been in the flower of youth, whose decay is capable of yielding us so much pleasure. Nor, at the same time, can we help repining, that this fountain of delight is now almost dried up, and going to forsake us; and that the season in which it lowed in the greatest abundance was so long before we were acquainted with the world. It is no difficult matter to form a just notion of what the prime of any one’s life was, from the spirit and flavour which remain even in the last dregs. Old age, merely as such, can never render a person either contemptible or disagreeablein the eye of a reasonable man : but such as we find peo- ple at that time of life, much the same they certainly were, in those which they call their better days. As they that can make themselves agreeable, notwith- standing the disadvantage of old age, must have been highly entertaining in the vigour of youth; so when- ever we meet with one in years, whose humour is un- pleasant and manners burthensome, we may take it for granted that, even in the prime of youth, such a one was troublesome, impertinent, and unsociable. 166 ESOP’S FABLES Lc XCVII. The FowLER and the LARK. wile, ily I li ll pu = EF mere A FowLr set snares to catch Larks in the o open field. A Lark was caught; and finding herself en- tangled, could not forbear lamenting her hard fate, Ah! woe is me, says she, what erime have I com- mitted 7? I have taken neither silver nor gold, nor any thing of value ; but must die only for eating a poor grain of wheat. THE APPLICATION. The irregular administration of justice in the world, is indeed a very melancholy subject to think of. A poor fellow shall be hanged for stealing a sheep, per- haps to keep his family from starving ; while one, who is already great and opulent, shall, for that very rea- son, think himself privileged to commit almost any enormities. But it is necessary that a show and form of justice should be kept up; otherwise, were people to be ever so great, and so successful rogues, they would not be able to keep possession of, and enjoy their plunder. One of our poets, in his description of a court of justice, calls it a place, ASOP’S FABLES. Where little villains must submit to fute, That great ones may enjoy the world in state. What a sad thing it is to reflect (and the more sad, because not to be remedied) that a man may rob the public of millions, and escape at last ; when he that is taken picking a pocket of five shillings, unless he knows how to make a friend, is sure to sii for it! "ABLE XCV II1.- The OwL and the GRASSHOPPER. Ax Owl sat sleeping in a tree. But a Grasshop- per, who was singing beneath, would not let her be quiet, abusing her with very indecent and unecivil language ; telling her she was a scandalous person, who plied a-nights to get her living, and shut her- self up all day 1 in a hollow tree. The Owl desired her to hold her tongue and be quiet : notwithstandin which, she was the more impertinent. She id of her a second time to leave off; but all to no pur- pose. The Owl, vexed at the heart to find that all ‘she said went for nothing, cast about to inveigle her by stratagem, Well, says she, since one must be kept 168 ESOP’S FABLES. awake, it is a pleasure, however, to be kept awake by so agreeable a voice ; which, I must confess, 1s no ways inferior to the finest harp. And, now I think of it, I have a bottle of excellent nectar, which my mistress Pallas gave me; if you have a mind, I will give you a dram to wet your whistle. The Grasshop- per, ready to die with thirst, and, at the same time, pleased to be so complimented upon account of her voice, skipped up to the place very briskly; when the Owl, advancing to meet her, seized, and, without much delay, made her a sacrifice to her revenge; securing to herself, by the death of her enemy, a possession of that quict, which, during her lifetime, she could not enjoy. TIE APPLICATION. Humanity, or what we understand by common civility, is not more a necessary duty, than it is easy to practise. The man that is guilty of ill-manners, if he has been bred to know what is meant by manners, must do vio- lence to himself, as well as to the person he offends; and cannot be inhuman to others, without being cruel to his own nature. It has been observed, in the appli- cation to the forty-seventh fable, that people of captious tempers being generally in the wrong, in taking things ill which were never so intended, are likely to be but the more persecuted, in order to be laughed out of their folly ; and that not unjustly. But we must take care to distinguish; and, when any thing truly impertinent and troublesome has been said or done to another, not to repeat it because he takes it ill, but immediately to desist from it; especially when he is so moderate as to make it his request two or three times, before he pro- ceeds openly to take his course, and do himself justice. This point should be well considered; for many quarrels of veryill consequence, have been occasioned by a rash unthinking persistance in the impertinent humour be= fore-mentioned. Some young people are fond of show- ing their wit and intrepidity, and therefore take such ASOCP’S FABLES. 169 occasions to do it: and when a friend is peevish (as one may have a private cause for being so), they will aot leave, till they have rallied him out of it; no, though he entreats them ever so gravely and earnestly. Whereas, in truth, we have no right to be impertinent with one another to extremity ; and though there is no Jaw to punish such incivilities as I have been speaking of, they will scarce fail of meeting with a deserved and just chatisement, some way or other. FABLE XCIX. The ONxeE-EYED DoE. Rn e— Tl Ef A Dog, that had but one eye, used to graze near the sea, and that she might be the more secure from harm, she kept her blind side towards the water, from whence she had no apprehension of danger, and with the other surveyed the country as she fed. By this vigilance and precaution she thought herself in the utmost security ; when a sly fellow, with two or three of his companions, who had been hing after her several days to no purpose, at last too a'boat, and fetching a compass upon the sea, came gently down upon her, and shot her. The Doe, in the ago- y | 170 AESOP’'S FABLES. nies of death, breathed out this doleful complaint: O hard fate! that I should receive my death's wound from that side whence I expected no 1ll; and be safe in that part where I looked for the most danger. THE APPLICATION. Life is so full of accidents and uncertainties, that, with all the precaution we use, we can never be said to be entirely free from danger. And though there is but one way for us to come into the world, the passages to let us out of it are innumerable. So that we may guard ourselves against the most visible and threatening ills as much as we please, hut shall.still leave an unguarded side to a thousand latent mischiefs, which lie in ambush round about us. The moral, therefore, which such a reflection suggests to us is, to be neither too secure, nor too solicitous about the safety of our persons; as it is impossible for us to be always out of danger, so would it be unreasonable and unmanly to be always in fear of that which it is not in our power to prevent. FABLE C. The River-Fisu and the Sea-Fisn. eat TT thn tn Wi oe gn iil ri = il Hil 1 | Lo ptt 0 Tar. waters of a river being ightily swelled by a great flood, the stream ran down with a t ASOP’S FABLES. 171 current, and by its rapid force carried a huge Barbel along with it into the sea. This fresh water spark was no sooner come into a new climate, but he be- gan to give himself airs, to talk big, and look with contempt upon the inhabitants of the place. He boasted that he was of a better country and family than any among them, for which reason they ought to give place to him, and pay him respect accordingly. A fine large Mullet, that happened to swim near him, and heard his insolent language, bid him hold his silly tongue; for, if they should be taken by fishermen, and carried to market, he would soon be convinced who ought to have the preference: We, says he, should be bought up, at any price, for tables of the first qua- lity, and you sold to the poor for little or nothing. THE APPLICATION. It proceeds from a want either of sense or breeding, or both, when foreigners speak slightly of the country they happen to be in, and cry up their own. It is in- deed natural to have an affection for one’s own native place ; nor can we, perhaps, in our mind, help prefer- ring it before any other; but it is certainly both impru- dent and unmannerly, to express this in another coun- try, to people whose opinion it must needs contradict, by the same rule that it pleases our own. But, how- ever, granting that there is a certain difference between countries, so as to make one greatly preferable, in the generality of opinions, to another, yet what has this te do with the merit of particular persons? or why should any one value himself upon an advantage over others, which is purely owing to accident? It must be from some useful or agreeable talent in ourselves, that we are to merit the esteem of mankind ; and if we shine in a superior degree of virtue or wisdom, whatever our native air happened to be, virtuous and wise men, of every nation under heaven, will pay us the regard and the acknowledgments we deserve. 1 JESOP’S FABLES. I © ey AX Athenian, one day, found Esop at play with a company of little boys, at their childish diversions, and began to jeer and laugh at him for it. "The old fellow, who was too much a wag himself, to suffer others to ridicule him, took. a bow, unstrung, and laid it upon the ground. Then, calling the censorious Athenian, Now, philosopher, says he, expound the riddle if you can, and tell us what the unstrained Low implies. The Man, after racking his brains, and scratching his pate about it a considerable time, to no purpose, at last gave it up, and declared he knew not what to make of it. Why, says Alsop, laughing, if you keep a bow always bent, it will break presently ; but, if you let it go slack, it will be the fitter for use when you want it. THE APPLICATION. . The mind of a man is like a bow in this respect; for if it be always kept intent upon business, it will either break and be good for nothing, or lose that spring and energy which is required in one who would acquit him- self with credit. But sports and diversions soothe and ESOP’S FABLES. 173 slacken it, and keep it in a condition to be exerted to the best advantage upon occasion. It proceeds either from pride, ill-nature, or hypocrisy, when people cen- sure and are offended at the liberties which others use in thus relaxing their minds. Sloth and idleness, by which we neglect the prosecution of our necessary af- fairs, must be condemned by all means; but those who know how to dispatch the proper business of life well and seasonably enough, need be under no apprehension of being surprised at their diversions, if they have no- thing dishonest in them. As these amusements ought to be allowed, because they are proper, so it is no great matter how they are followed; we may, if we like it, as well play with children as men; and rather, if we find they can divert us better, which is not very seldom the case: some men and women are useless and untractable in every circumstance of life; and some children so en- gaging and entertaining, with an agreeable undesigned mixture of innocence and cunning, that the company of the latter is many times the more preferable anddiverting. FABLE CII. The Jack-Daw and the PIGEONS. on ; i ) ri | J p 4 él x 14.04 1, QON A pi NY et A Litt tg rsx i Hoge, von aE re pag A Jack Daw, observing that the Pigeons ina 1 174 AESOP’S FABLES. certain dove-cote lived well, and wanted for nothing, whitewashed his feathers, and endeavour- in et as much like a dove as he could, went and lived among them. The Pigeons, not distin- guishing him as long as he kept silent, forbore to give him any disturbance. But at last he forgot his character, and began to chatter; by which the Pigeons discovering what he was, flew upon him, and beat him away from the meat, so that he was obliged to fly back to the Jack-daws again. They not knowing him in his discoloured feathers, drove him away likewise, so that he who had endeavoured to be more than he had a right to, was not permitted to be any thing at all. THE APPLICATION. The pretending to be of principles which we are not, either out of fear, or any prospect of advantage, is a ve- ry base vile thing; and whoever is guilty of it, deserves to meet with ill treatment from all sorts and conditions of men. But the best of it is, there is no fear of such counterfeits imposing upon the world long, in a disguise 80 contrary to their own nature: let them but open their mouths, and, like the Daw in the fable, they im- mediately proclaim their kind. If they should deceive for a while, by appearing in an unquestionable place, or hanging out false colours, yet, if touched upon the right string, they would be discovered in an instant ; for, when people are acting a wrong part, their very voice betrays them ; they either cannot act their part sufficiently, or they overact it: and which ever is the case, a man of discretion and honour will be sure to distinguish, and to discountenance such pitiful im- postors. ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CIIL The Sow and the Birch. A Sow and Bitch happening to meet, a debate arose betwixt them, concerning their fruitfulness. The Bitch insisted upon it, that she brought more at a litter, and oftener, than any other four-legged creature. Ay, says the Sow, you do indeed, but you are always in so much haste about 1t, that you bring your Puppies into the world blind. THE APPLICATIUN. The more haste the worse speed, is a most excellent proverb, and worthy to be worn upon some conspicuous part of our dress or equipage, thatit may give us a pro- er check, when we go about any thing of importance; which otherwise we might be apt to pursue with too much hurry and precipitation. It is no wonder our productions should come into the world blind or lame, or otherwise defective, when by unnatural methods we accelerate their birth, and refuse to let them go their full time. And if a hasty publication be such a crime, what must it be to brag, and make profession of it in 176 ESOP’S FABLES. ESOP’S FABLES. 177 prefiess Ind daiatens, gs the practice of some is’ his cruel raillery, down came a hawk, and snapped Bais, when they Is doswy t . world will admire their him up ; and, notwithstanding his vain cries and la- ihe ay ons our ie io JoYince them how mentations, fell a devouring of him mn an instant. The they have bestowed rao oy . 5 tims and pains Hare, who was just expiring, yet received comfort a aa Lind a ok ut, hove: er, ta ad- from this accident, even In the agonies of death ; and Doisofur seid], us to Indnesws to ns ind, may addressing her last words to the sparrow, said, You words, and spare ourselves the en ; OI 1 {A017 who just now insulted my misfortunes with so much © Ol. perusing a security, as you thought, may please to show us how y,asy 8 yp oy treatise, which they as ¢ betoreli oe : ) | and faulty, os Bs ow oe well you can bear the like, now it has befallen you. neglect of the author. » OF Wik THE APPLICATION. Nothing is more impertinent than for people to be pT Lo giving their 0 inion and advice, in cases, in which, FABLE CIV. The Sparrow and the Hare. were they to Tir own, themselves would be as much at a loss what to do. But so great an itch have most men to be directors in the affairs of others, either to show the superiority of their understanding, or their own security and exemption from the ills they would have removed, that they forwardly and conceitedly obtrude their counsel, even at the hazard of their owi safety and reputation. There have been instances of those who, either officiously, or for the jest’s sake, have spent much of their time in reading lectures of economy to the rest of the world ; when, at the same time, their own ill husbandry has been such, that they were forced to quit their dwellings, and take lodgings; while their goods were sold to make a composition for the debts they owed to petty tradesmen. Without giving more examples of this kind of which every one may furnish himself with enough from his own observation, we Ys ‘ oT cannot but conclude, that none are greater objects of in A Hans being Seed by » Eagle, squeaked out | ridicule, than they who thus merrily assume a character upon a tree just b wr y Sparrow, that sat which, at the same time, by some incidents of their being Ae oh Yo * Joni not forbear life, they convince us of their being so unfit for. tothe Hare +S { Witty, ut called out, and said Prvih o ho! what, sit there and be killed ! 2 a creature as you are, would easily escape from the Eagle. As he was going on with 178 ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CV. Cxs4r and the SLavE. fe —— ~ i Ba Bn LY ae i | Ee yf Hi Me = 7 Ly dar : Li vi” ey. EAN a YR he fi! i ibm > " HT Witt evra — ——— Hai, As Tiberius Cesar was upon a progress to Naple once, he 1 : h "Phe » he put mm at a house he had upon the mountain Misenus; which was built there by Lucul- lus, and commanded a near view of the Tosem Sea having a distant prospect even of that of Sicily. Here, as he was walking in the gardens and wilderness, of a most delightful verdure, one of his domestic Slaves, which belonged to that house, putting him. self into a most alert posture and dress, appeared in one of the walks where the Emperor happened to be sprinkling the ground with a watering-pot, in order to lay the dust ; and this he did so officiously that he was taken notice of, and even laughed at ; for be ran through private alleys and turnings, from onewalk to another ; so that, wherever the Emperor went, he still found this fellow mighty busy with his Falorin - pot. But at last, his design being discovered ih was, that he fancied Caesar would be so touched with this diligence of his, as to make him free ; (part of which ceremony consisted in giving the ire a ESOP’S FABLES. 179 gentle stroke on one side of his face) his imperial Ma- jesty, being disposed to be merry, called him to him; and when the man came up, full of joyful expecta- tions of his liberty, Hark you, friend, says he, 1 have observed that you have been very busy a great while ; but it was impertinently busy, in officiously meddlin; where you had nothing to do, whil: you might have employed your time better elsewhere; and therefore I must be so free as to tell you, that you have mis- taken your man; I cannot afford a box of the ear at so low a pr.ce as you bid for 1t. THE APPLICATION. Pheedrus tells us, upon his word, that this is a true story; and that Le wrote it for the sake of a set of n- dustrious idle gentlemen at Rome, who were harassed and fatigued with a daily succession of care and trouble, because they bad nothing to do; always in a hurry, but without business ; busy, but to no purpose ; labour- ing under a voluntary necessity; and ruking abundance of pains to show they were good for nothing. But what great town or city 1s so entirely free from this sect. as to render the moral of this fable useless auy where? for it points to all those officious vood-natured people, who - are eternally running up and down to serve theirfriends, without doing them any good; who by a complaisance wrong-judged, or ill-applied, displease, while they en- deavour to oblige, and are never doing less to the pur- pose, than when they are most employed. How many are there who think themselves entitled to good posts from government, only for having been dubblers in politics all their lives, to the neglect and prejudice of their proper callings; for never failing to enquire the news of the day of their acquaintance, and expressing a hearty satisfaction or a deep concern, as the account given has affected them! There is another sort, who are so concerned lest you should find out that they aie mere cyphers in life, that they overact their part, and are ever in a hurry ; who appear at coffee-houses, and other public places, looking about eagerly for one with 180 AESOP’S FABLES. whom they have uo business, and wanting to be asked %o stay, that they may have an opportunity of tellin « you they cannot possibly do it. People of this ci always subscribe their letters with a Yours. in ore at haste, though they write to you only because es nothing else to do. In a word, this fable is designed for the reformation of all those who endeavour to raise to themselves merit and applause from a misapplied industry. It is not our being busy and officions that will procure us the esteem of men of sense but th intending and contriving our actions to some noble useful purpose, and for the general good of mankind. FABLE CVI. 7%hé Sueep-Birer. - i a lit i erm TH f hi = : > aise Ee EE ESE i Hg i CE aE RS == = > LAS i 3 EE et Ee fa ! i MY Nee Sl a a ay get = — lish : ti! 3 irl gah y — 05. ee 2 thy, SR hath i oN = Hy : AEE meno saith A CerTaIN Shepherd had delity he relied ~~ wp an occasion to be absent himself, he 1 re and tuition of the flock to the Mong bis De hs » to encourage him to do his duty cheerfully, ge upon whose fi- ry much; for whenever he had 1 e him constantly with sweet curds and whey ; and Sometimes. threw him a crust or two extraordinary. » notwithstanding this, no sooner was his back turned, but the treacherous cur fell foul upon the ESOP’S FABLES. Is flock, and devoured the sheep instead of guarding and defending them. The shepherd being informed of this, was resolved to hang him ; and the Dog, when the rope was about his neck, and he was just going to be tied up, began to expostulate with his master, ask- ing him, why he was so unmercifully bent against him, who was his own servant and creature, and had only committed one or two crimes; and why he did not rather execute revenge upon the Wolf, who was a constant and declared enemy ? Nay, replies the Shep- herd, it is for that very reason that I think you ten times more worthy of death than he; from him I expected nothing but hostilities, and therefore could guard against him: you I depended upon as a just and faithful servant, and fed and encouraged you accoxd- ingly ; and therefore your treachery is the more no- torious, and your ingratitude the more unpardonable. THE APPLICATION. No injuries are so bitter and so inexcusable as those which proceed frommen whom we trusted as friends,and in whom we placed a confidence. An open enemy, how- ever inveterate, may overpower and destroy us, or per= haps may hurt and afflict us only in some measure; but, as such a treatment cannot surprise us, because we ex« pected no less, neither can it give us half the grief and nneasiness of mind, which we are apt to feel when we rind ourselves wronged by the treachery and falsehood of a friend. When the man, whom we trusted and esteemed, proves injurious to us, it is a calamity so cruelly complicated in its circumstances, thatitinvolves us in grief of many folds, and multiplies the sum of our infelicity. At one and the same time, we find a foe where we least expected, and lose a friend when we most wanted him: which must be as severe and pierc- ing, as it is sudden and surprising. It is natural, there- fore, for our resentment to be in proportion to our sense of such an injury ; and that we should wish the punish- ment of so extraordinary a crime may be, at least, as great as that which usually attends an ordinary one. ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE CVIL. The Tier and the Dog. — a——— — pt ———_ nn - —— ee ————— ee a EB RHI ail] A ThiEF coming to rob a certain house in the might, was disturbed in his attempts by a fierce, vigi- lant Dog, who kept barking at him continually. Upon which the Thief, thinking to stop his mouth, threw him a piece of bread : but the Dog refused it with indignation ; telling him, that before, he only sus- pected him to be a bad man ; but now, upon his of- fering to bribe him, he was confirmed in his opinion ; and that, as he was intrusted with the guardianship of his master’s house, he should never cease barking while such a rogue as he lay lurking about it. THF APPLICATION. A man who is very free in his protestations of friend- shi», or offers of great civility upon the first interview, may meet with applause and esteem from fools, but contrives his schemes of that sort to little or no purpose, in the company of men of sense. It is a common and known maxim, to suspect an enemy even the more, for his endeavouring to convince us of his benevolence; eca ise the odduess of the thing puts us upon our guard, ESOP'S FABLES. 183 and makes us conclude, that some pernicious design must be couched under so sudden and unexpected a tucn of behaviour; but it is no unnecessary caution, to be upon the watch against even indifferent people when we perceive them uncommonly forward in their ar proaches of civility and kindness. The man, who at ys sight makes us an offer, which is due only to porticulat and well acquainted fiends, must be either a knave, an intends by such a bait to draw us nto his net: or a fool, with whom we ought to avoid having any com- munication. Thus far the consideration of this fable may be useful to us in private life; what it contains farther, in relation to the public, is, that a man, truly, honest, will neverlet his mouth be stopped with a bribe ; but the greater the offer 1s which is designed to buy his silence, the louder and more constantly will he open against the miscreants who would practise it upon him. FABLE CVIIl. The HARPER. A FeLrow that used to play upon his Ha sing to it in little alehouses, and made a shift, AEN oa PANT ra 184 ASOP’S FABLES. help of those narrow confined walls, to please the dull sots who heard him ; from hence entertained an ambi- tion of showing his parts upon the public theatre, where he fancied he could not fail of raising a great reputation and fortune in a very short time. He was accordingly admitted upon trial; but the spaciousness of the place, and the throng of the people, so deadened and weakened both his voice and instrument, that scarce either of them could be heard ; and where they could, it sounded so poor, so low, and wretched, in the earof his refined audience, that he was universally exploded and hissed off’ the stage. THE APPLICATION. When we are commended for our performances by people of much flattery, or little judgment, we should be sure not to value ourselves upon it; for want of which, many a vain unthinking man has at once ex- posed and lost himself to the world. A buffoon may be very agreeable to a company disposed to be mirth- ful over a glass of wine, who would not be fit to open his mouth in a senate, or upon a subject where sound sense and a grave and serious behaviour are expected. It is not the diverting a little, insignificant, injudicious audience or society, which can gain us a proper esteem, or insure our success, in a place which calls for a per- formance of the first rate; we shouid have either al- lowed abilities to please the most refined tastes, or judg-- ment enough to know that we want them, and to have a care how we submit ourselves to the trial. And, if we mind to pursue a just and true ambition, it is not sufficient that we study barely to please, but it is of greatest moment whom we please, and in what respect ; otherwise, we may not only lose our labour, but make ourselves ridiculous into the bargain. ZESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CIX. Zhe T'wo Crass. 111i ql: saith ani It is said to be the nature of a Crab fish to go backward: however, a Mother-Crab, one day, re- proved her daughter, and was in a great passion with her for her untoward awkward gait, which she desired her to alter, and not to move In a way so con- tradictory to the rest of the world. Indeed, mother, says the young Crab, I walk as decently as I can, and to the best of my knowledge; but if you would have me go otherwise, I beg you would be so good as to practise it first, and show me, by your own example, how you would have me behave myself. THE APPLICATION. The man, who is so impertinent as to rebuke others for a misbehaviour of which he himself is guilty, must be either a hypocrite, a senseless creature, or an impu- dent fellow. It is strange that mankind, being so. apt to act wrong in most particulars, should at ‘the same time be so prone to calumny and detraction. One would think that they who err so notoriously and fre- 186 ESOP'S FABLES. quently themselves, should be rather tender in conceal- ing, than officious in carping at the faults of their fel- low sinners; especially, considering that itis natural to be misled by our passions and appetites into some ex- cess or other, but unnatural and inhuman to impeach others of miscarriages, of which ourselves are equally guilty. Granting it were ever so proper, or so much our duty to find fault with others, yet we must have a great share of impudence, if we can bear to do it while we know ourselves liable to the same imputations. Ex- ample is a thousand times more instructive, or at least persuasive, than precept: for, though the rules for vir- tue were even more pressing and numerous than they are, yet let but the fashion run upon vice, as it most commonly does, and you see how ready and conform- able the world shows itself to every part of it. FABLE CX. The THIEF and the Boy. SAL Tr - i gic] he EE RT RH ee ’ uy : R igi 3 ii th ee ny I | AN (0 3 AY yA 47 Pai \/ ¢ \ AL ER 4) ‘ We iy | hohe Nhs] f14 5 IT fain at) + ¢ J AT li z — : it Bi cree at fd Linrh atu A Boy sat weeping upon the side of a well. A Thief happening to come by just at the same time, asked him why he wept. The Boy, sighing and sobbing, replied, the string was broke, and a silver ESOP’S FABLES. 187 tankard was fallen to the bottom of the well. Upon this the Thief pulled off his clothes, and went down into the well to look for it; where, having groped about a good while to no purpose, he came up again, but found neither his clothes nor the Boy; that little arch dissembler having run away with them. THE APPLICATION. However justice may be but little practised and pur- sued by particular men in the common course of their actions, yet every one readily agrees, that it ought to be kept up and inforced by the several penal laws, in respect to the public in general. Many a one can scarce forbear robbing and defrauding another, when it isin his power to do it with impunity ; but at the same time, he dreads being robbed and defrauded again, as much as if he were the most innocent man living, and is as severe in prosecuting the offenders; which proves, that an un- just man is deliberately wicked, and abhors the crime in another, which he dares commit himself. Itis for this reason, that the greater partof mankind like well enough to have punishment inflicted upon those who do wrong; accordingly submit themselves to be governed peaceably and quietly by the laws of their country, upon the pros- pect of seeing justice executed upon all those who do them an injury. And, however a tender nature may shrink at the sight, and commiserate the condition of a suffering malefactor, yet, in the main we may observe, that people are pleased and satisfied when the sword of justice 1s unsheathed ; and multitudes will even crowd to he spectators, when the finishing stroke is given. But what affords us the greatest pleasure upon such occa- sions, is, when we are entertained with a view of justice, acting, as it were, in person, and punishing cheats and tricksters, by making their own contrivances instru- mental in it, and by ordering, as in the fable, that their wickedness may fall upon their own head. RE i emi" SERA a ie bic I — a 188 ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXI. Mercury and the WoobMan. A Max was felling a tree on the bank of a ri- ver, and by chance let his hatchet slip out of his hand, which dropt into the water, and immedi- ately sunk to the bottom. Being therefore in great distress for the loss of his tool, he sat down and bemoaned himself most lamentably. Upon this Mercury appeared to him, and being informed of the cause of his complaint, dived to the bottom of the river, and coming up again, showed the man a golden hatchet, demanding 1f that were his. He denied that it was. Upon which Mercury dived a second time, and brought up a silver one. The man refused it, alleging likewise that this was not his. He dived a third time, and fetched u the individual hatchet the man had lost: upon sight of which the poor wretch was overjoyed, and took it with all humility and thankfulness. Mercury was so pleased with the fellow’s honesty, that he gave him the other two into the bargain, as a reward for his just dealing. The man goes to his companions, ASOP’S FABLES. 189 and giving them an account of what had happened, one of them went presently to the river's side, and let his hatchet fall designedly into the stream. Then sitting down upon the bank, he fell a weeping and la- menting, as if he had been really and sorely afflicted. Mercury appeared as before, and diving, brought him up a golden hatchet, asking if that was the hatchet he lost. Transported at the precious metal, he answered, yes; and went to snatch it greedily. But the god detesting his abominable impudence, not only refused t0 give him that, but would not so much as let him have his own hatchet again. THE APPLICATION. Notwithstanding the proueness of mankind to do evil, and the account which some find in playing the knave, yet there cannot be invented a more true and reasonable maxim, than that by which we are assured that Honesty is the best Policy. If we consider it in respect to the other world, there never was a religion but strictly required it of its votaries: if we examine it upon account of this, we shall find that the honest man, provided his other talents are not deficient, always carries the preference in our esteem, before any other, in whatever business he thinks fit to employ himself. AESOP’S FABLES. 7 77a 7 > a A Tur Coachman, hearing one of the wheels of his coach creak, was surprised ; but more especially when he perceived that it was the worst wheel of the whole set, and which he thought had but little pretence to take such a liberty. But, upon his demanding the reason why it did so, the wheel replied, that it was natural for people who laboured under any affliction or ‘infirmity to complain. THE APPLICATION. Though we naturally desire to give vent to the full ness of our heart, when it is charged with grief, and though by uttering our complaints, we may happen to move the compassion of those that hear us, yet, every thing considered, it is best to repress and keep them to ourselves; or, if we must let our sorrow speak, to take care that itis done in solitude and retirement. What the poets mention as an usual thing with lovers, would not be amiss in those who are under any froward cala- mity, which cannot be kept quiet, to utter it to the C5 woods and mountains, and to call the rocks and riversto witness to the cruelty of their destiny ; that is, if they must show any weakness or impatience under the pres- a ES . go Re AESOP’S FABLES, 191 sure of adverse fortune, to doitas privately as they can : for though the commiseration of a soft-hearted person may be drawn forth sometimes by imparting the bitter- ness of our condition, yet the world will be apt to think us troublesome and importunate : and conclude, that if our hardships were so great as we would have people believe, wecould not bear to think of them so frequently and abundantly,as sometimes we do. Butbesides,nothing is more generally true, than that it is much happier for us to share the envy, than the pity, of mankind. And if the first of these is by no means eligible, if we couldavoid it, how much more onght we to take care to give as little occasion as possible for the latter? Scarce anyone is en~ vied without possessing something valuable, or at least desirable; but we no sooner become objects of pity, than we are found out to be deficient in some respector other, and perhaps unfit and unequal for the company and ae- quaintance withavhich we formerly conversed. Upon the whole, though we be pitied, we shall never be the more esteemed for being miserable ; and if we can but appear happy, ten to one but we shall be beloved in course. FABLE CXI11I. The Max and his WooDEN Gon. ei——— fy, Theva] Thi pp hi \ na ——— ag B Ee Si) - = ul Gell] [fh I wr 7 = % wal] ] { jostill } (22 ‘ = 0 > al aes ii, (tilt EY weil (1 nt! AE Ee 2 [A .. A Max having a Wooden God, worshipped it for 192 ESOP’S FABLES. wealth, because his circumstances were but low. But when he had continued to do this for many days to no purpose, in a passion at the disappointment, he took the image by the legs, knocked it against the pave- ment, and broke it in pieces ; upon which a great quan- tity of money, which had been inclosed within it, flew about the room. The man no sooner perceived this, but addressing himself to the idol, Thou obstinate per- verse deity says he, who while I humbly besought thee, hadst no regard to my prayers, but now thou art used ill, and broken to pieces, dost pour forth good things, in even a greater abundance than I could desire. THE APPLICATION. This is a fable of a very extraordinary composition ; if, as the ancient mythologists say, it is designed to sig- nify no more than, that where fair means will not do, foul nust be used. Indeed some natures are so very rough and untractable, that gentle usage and moderate treat- ment are thrown away upon them; they must be wrought upon like stubborn metals, by blows frequently and heartily applied. But what has all this to do with re- ligion and the worship of God ? The fable is useless in that respect, unless we considerit in this light, that the adoration of images is the most stupid part of religion that ever was invented. How any of the sober, sensible Leathen world could be induced, soas to givein to such an unreasonable piece of devotion, is astonishing ; or how could-they suppose that a senseless stock or stone, which had neither life nor motion in it,could understand their complaints and redress their grievances: such a supposition must be monstrously absurd and foolish. But what then must we think of those Christians, who blindly run into the same practice, though they have an acknowledged and received command from the God they worship, absolutely forbidding it! What was only stupidity in the heathens, in them is gross wickedness . -and profane impudent impiety. But the people who can - be made to believe that this is right, may be taught to ASOP’S FABLES. swallow any thing, and consequently are the fittest tools to carry on the trade of priesteraft. FABLE CXIV. The Kip and the WoLr. A Kip, being mounted upon the roof of a shed, and secing a Wolf below, loaded him with all manner of reproaches. Upon which, the Wolf, looking up, replied, Deo not value yourself, vain creature, upon thinking youn mortify me ; for 1 look upon this ill language, as not coming from you, but from the place which protects you. THE APPLICATION. To rail and give ill language, is very wmhbecoming, not only in gentlemen in particular, but men in general: nor can we easily determine whether courage or man- pers are most wanting in the person whois oiven tomse it. Now, when any one is SO screened and protected by the place he is in, that he may commit such inde- cencies with impunity, however his carcase may escape got free, yet he is sure to pay for it in his reputation; it being impossible we should think him a man of ho- our, who endeavoursto wound us from the advantags K A 104 ZESOP’'S FABLES. of the place in which he happens to be, and refuses to engage us upon equal terms. Whenever, therefore, we are attacked by one, whom the company we are in, or some other circumstance, makes it improper or im- practicable for us to come at, let us wisely curb our passions of resentment, by considering, that itis not the silly person who speaks, but some situation, by which he is secured, that utters the reproach against us. The same reflection may serve also to divert, instead of ex- asperating us, at the impotent malice of those poor spi- rits who, at the same time that they take advantage of a place to brandish their infamous tongues against us, show how much they fear us, and that they durst not do it, unless they knew themselves to be out of the reach of cur resentment. FABLE CXV. The Jupicious Liox. I SP TH hi — TTT ST eal a TE Si RIE oH bn) . i, Pains i ala Why il | | nd il Naif eS NER 7 Mivnn a my SR a ¢ ol tpi pe —— | Nii A Liox having taken a young Bullock, stood over | and was going to devour it, when a thief stepped in, and cried halves with him. No, friend, says the Lion, you are too apt to take what is not your due, and , therefore I shall have nothing to say to you. By" chance, a poor honest traveller happened to come ‘ ipublic any other way. hg ASOP’'S FABLES. 195 that way, and seeing the Lion, modestly and timeo- rously withdrew, intending to go another way : upon which the generous beast, with a courteous, affable behaviour, desired him to come forward, and partake with him in that, to which his modesty and humility had given him so good a title. Then, dividing the prey nto two equal parts, and feasting himself upon one of them, he retired into the woods, and left the place clear for the honest man to come in for his share. THE APPLICATION. There is not one but will readily allow this behaviour of the Lion to have been commendable and just; not- withstanding which, greediness and importunity never fail to thrive and attain their ends, while modesty starves and is for ever poor. Nothing is more disagree- able to quiet, reasonable men, than those that are pe- tulant, forward, and craving, in soliciting for their fa- vours ; and yet favours are seldom bestowed but upon such as have extorted them by these teasing offensive means. Every patron, when he speaks his real thoughts, is ready to acknowledge that the modest man has the best title to his esteem ; yet he suffers himself, too of- ten, to be prevailed upon, merely by outrageous noise, to give that to a shameless assuming fellow, which he knows to be justly due to the silent, unapplying, mo- dest man. it would be a laudable thing in a man in power, to make a resolution not to confer any advanta= geous post upon the person that asks for it; as it would free him from importunity, and afford him a quiet leisure, upon any vacancy, either to consider with himself who had deserved best of their country, or to inquire, and be informed by those whom he could trust. But as this is seldom or never practised, no wonder that we often find the names of men of little merit’ mentioned in the public prints, as advanced to considerable stations, who were incapable of being known to the Re x Q | od » AS0P’'S FABLES. FABLE CXxV.. The WoLr and the Kip. The Goat, gong abroad to feed, shut up her young Kid at home, charging him to bolt the door fast, and open it to nobody, till she herself should return. The Wolf, who lay lurking just by, heard this charge given; and soon after came and knocked at the door, counterfeiting the voice of the Goat, and desiring to be admitted. The Kid, look- ing out at a window, and finding the cheat, bid him go about his business; for, however he might 1mi- tate a Goat's voice, yet he appeared too much like a Wolf to be trusted. THE APPLICATION. As it is impossible that young people should steer their course aright in the world, before they are ac- quainted with the situation of the many dangers which fie in their way, it is therefore necessary, that they _should be under the government and diréetion of those who are appointed to take the charge of their education, whether they are parents, or tutors by them intru AESOP’S FAL LES. 197 with the instruction of their ck. iru. Ifa child has but reason enough to consider at «i, how readily should it embrace the counsel of his fa. ¢ ! how attentively listen to his precepts! and how si adity pursue ns ad- vice! The father has already waiscd mi ihe difficult wilderness of life, and has observed every danger which lies lurking in the paths of ii, 10 annoy the footsteps of those who never irod the wav before... Cf these, with much tenderness and sincere affection, he makes a discovery to his son; telling him what If must avoid, and directing him how to make a safe, honourable, and advantageous journey. When, therefore, the child re- fuses to follow the direcii ns of so skilful a guide, so faithful. so loving, and so sincere a frend, no wonder if he falls into many mischiefs, which, otherwise, he might have escaped, unpitied and unlamented by all that know him, because he obstinately contemned the kind admonitions of him that truly wished and :ntended his happiness, and perversely followed the examples of those who decoyed him out of the way of virtue, into the thorny mazes of vice and error. Nor should children take it ill, if the commands of their parents sometimes seem difficult and disagreeable; perhaps, upon experi- ment, they may prove as pleasant and diverting, as if they had followed their own choice; this, however, they may be assured of, that all such cautions are intended out of true love and affection, by those who are more experienced than themselves, and therefore better judges what their conduet should be. 198 j ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXVIIL. The Wolk, the Fox, and the Ark. oe are —— Te TG i 7 rec _Lllti li \ if i SET | NY Ew. Hi yy, i (Hilhy,) "ud fue = rE Hh NS ho ee === sr hl, = Sinks h TE fulligd : Bs ‘ > rr il a Nd En gi IE fi He wd EE see a omni cial A Tar Wolf indicted the Fox of felony, before the Ape, who, upon that occasion, was appointed special judge of the cause. The Fox gave in his an- swer to the Wolf’s accusation, and denied the fact. So, after a fair hearing on both sides, the Ape gave judgment to this purpose. I am of opinion that you, says he to the Wolf, never lost the goods you sue for: and as for you, turning to the Fox, I make no ques- tion, said he, but you have stolen what is laid to your charge, at least. And thus the court was dismissed, with this public censure passed upon cach party. THE APPLICATION. A man that has once blemished his credit by knavery, will not be believed for the future, even though he should speak the truth. One would think the consideration of this : should be some obstruction to lying and cheating, and a discouragement to the professors of that faculty. ASOP’S FABLES. 199 Whoever is detected of voluntary, deliberate falsehood, although no cognizance is had of it by the public, will yet be for ever detested by the honest, discreet part of his acquaintance : and though he may escape all manner of penalty, from the law of the land in which he lives, vet all that know him will lay him under a tacit, private condemnation, and-treat him for ever after as an outlaw, and an excommunicated person. Cheating and knavery may now and then succeed and pass muster with the most silly undiscerning part of mankind ; but the con- trivers of such villainous plots, whatever their advantage may be, are sure of getting little or no honour by their exploits ; and are liable to be detected and exposed, even by the simple crew which they practise upon. A very Ape knows how to distinguish, and pass sentence upon a Fox or Wolf; but the honest, just man, who is fair and upright in all his dealings, is unexceptionable to every body, and no less sure of turning every nego- ciation to his profit, than to his honour and credit. A knave has a chance, and perhaps but an indifferent one, of succeeding once or twice, and that with the most foolish part of mankind ; whereas an honest man is sure of being constantly trusted and well esteemed, and that by all wise and good people. AESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXVIII. JuriTEr and the Ass. i a iw wil i hi? : Nid FF ed ATH ph or/ = =~ J {i h RA er lt i i of Th | : 2 &\ i EN | P x; 7 £N “ 4 * oi 4 = hs es = gi 8 MEST (lL ‘ I= = RR 3 wy 5 a INL i = 35 Rss” CRE / | SA —— : - A TEE i! \ i BA CO 7 Alli 3 7) A ; x / | “ | | LA Sr a 4 { ofl i I i ; eae I i > = ani : A Cock, being perched amon i ; the branch ky kes, Stoned loud, jo that % Brey oy rough the wood, and invit 2 he thes wha was prowling in that eyo Do | of ms prey. But, Reynard, findi . Sock was inaccessible, by reason of the height of the i Sagion, had recourse to stratagem, in order to rs ng ow i 80, appeoaching “i tree, Cousin, says s 1 am heartily glad to see you ; but at the wo r expressing iny uneasiness at Pay my respects to you in a handsomer manner; though 216 ASOP’S FABLES. J suppose you will come down presently, and so that difficulty is easily removed. Indeed, (Cousin, sav: ‘the Cock, to tell you the truth, I do not think safe to venture upon the ground ; for though I ‘convinced how much you are my friend, yet I have the misfortune to fall into the clutches of “on other beasts, and what will become of me then” © dear, says Reynard, is 1t possible that you ca: be co ignorant, as not to know of the peace that has been lately proclaimed between all kinds of birds an beasts ; and that we are, for the future, to torpor hostilities on all sides, and to live in the utmost [ve and harmony, and that, under penalty of suiferny the severest punishment that can be inflicted ? i this while, the Cock seemed to give little attention to what was said, but stretched out his neck, as if" he saw something at a distance. Cousin, says the Fox, what is that you look at so earnestly # Why, says the Cock, I think I see a pack of Hounds yonder, a htile way off. O then, says the Fox, your humble servant, 1 must be gone. Nay, pray Cousin, do not go, says the Cock, 1 am just coming down ; sure you are not afraid of Dogs in these peaceable times. No, no, says he, but ten to one whether they have heard of the proclamation yet. THE APPLICATION. It is a very agreeable thing to sec craft repelled by cunning ; more especially to behold the snares of the wicked broken and defeated by the discreet manage- ment of the innocent. The moral of this fable princi- pally puts us in mind, not to be too credulous towards insinuations of those, who are already distinguished by their want of faith and honesty. When, therefore, any such would draw us inte a compliance with their destructive measures, by @ pretended civility and ex- ZAZSOP’S FABLES. 217 sider such proposals in their true li | ht it art- fully placed to conceal the fatal RE re tod vs oi captivity and thraldom. An honest Es ra 1 public good, and withou being asier of Seach address or eri ny hout viese P ple f at Js designs are intended for their Julies: Pus Miz ed, designing politician, though he heeds gue: 2 cloquent as ever spoke, may sometimes he disapp i ho his projects, and be foiled in his schemes £ pecially when their destructive texture is $0 cos y spas, and the threads of mischief are ge in them, as to be felt even by those rn FALE CXXVIIL. The Car and the Cock. i ’ | x Ha | + 2 oof ConE, Coty Davies a mind to make a meal of the Cos, iz i im one morning by surprise, and asked iy hat he could say for himself, why slaughter Shon not pass upon him? The Cock replied that as serviceable to mankind, by crowing in the morn- L 218 ESOP’S FABLES. ing, and calling them up to their daily labour. That is true, says the Cat, and is the very objection that I have against you; for you make such a shrill imper- iment noise, that people cannot sleep for you. Be- sides, you are an incestuous rascal, and make no scruple of lying with your mother and sisters. Well, says the Cock, this I do not deny; but I do it to procure eggs and chickens for my master. Ah! villain, says the Cat, hold your wicked tongue; such impieties as these declare that you are no longer fit to live. THE APPLICATION. When a wicked man, in power, has a mind to glut his appetite in any respect, innocence, or even merit, is no protection against him. The cries of justice-and the voice of reason are of no effect upon a conscience hardened in iniquity, and a mind versed in a long prac- tice of wrong and robbery. Remonstrances, however reasonably urged, or movingly couched, have no more influence upon the heart of such a one, than the gentle evening breeze has upon the oak, when it whispers among its branches ; or the rising surges upon the deaf rock, when they dash and break against its sides. Power should never be trusted in the hands of an. impious selfish man, and one that has more regard to the gra- tification of his own unbounded avarice, than to public peace and justice. Were it not for the tacit consent and harmless compliance of a great majority of fools, mankind would not be ridden, .as oftentimes they are, Dy a little majority of knaves, to their great misfor- tune : for, whatever peeple may think of the times, if Shey were ten times worse than they ave, it is princi- pal the man a moment longer, who has once injured and betrayed them ? BO y owing to their own stupidity : why do they trust ZESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXXIX. The Doc in the Manger, ° A Doe was lying upon a manger full of hay. An 3% ing hungry, came near, and offered to eat of the hay ; but the envious, ill-natured cur, getti up and snarling at him, would not suffer bir to or it. Upon which, the Ox, in the bitterness of his heart, said, A curse light on thee, for a malicious wretch, ¥ho wil} neither eat hay thyself, nor suffer others to TEE APELICATION. a Eavy is the most unnatural and unaccountable of all e passions. There is scarce any other emotion of the mind, however unreasonable, but may have i : said in excuse for it; and there are many of — Wagknegdse of the sonl, which, notwithstanding the wi Fuses aad irregularity of them, swell the Ean ile they last, with pleasure and gladness. But the enyoss man has no such apology as this to make ; the gay ger the passion is, the greater torment he endures,. subjects himself to a continual real pain, by. nly wishing ill to others. Revenge is sweet, aay L 2 = “er ESOP’'S FABLES. and inhuman ; and though it sometimes thirsts even for blood, yet may be glutted and satiated. Avaric is something highly monstrous and absurd; yet, as 1 ¥ a desire after riches, every little acquisition gives 1 pleasure ; and to behold dnd feel the hoarded treasure, $0 a covetous man is a constant, uncloying enjoy may, But envy, which is an anxiety ansing in our mi S upon our observing accomplishments in others, whic we want ourselves, can never receive any true com- fort, unless in a deluge, a conflagration, a plague, or some general calamity that should befal mankind : for, as long as there is a creature living, that erjoysiis ong happily within the envious mans sphere, it w a ox : nourishment tohis distempered mind; but such nouris ment as will make him pine, and fret, and emaciate himself to nothing. FABLE CXXX. The Doc and the SHEEP. ee ee — : STR iti fn wv i J jitg) x qe, So 4 ih i 5 ai i LLL TE Ro " ich the Tae Dog sued the Sheep for a debt, of which t Kite and tho Wolf were to be judges: they, without debating long upon the matter, or making any scruple - - ws ee mpm SD ie ——— htt ee ESOP’S FABLES. 291 for want of evidence, gave sentence for the plaintiff’; who immediately tore the poor Sheep in pieces, and divided the spoil with the unjust judges. THE APPLICATION. *" Deplorable are the times, when open, barefaced vil- lany is protected and encouraged, when innocence is obnoxious, honesty contemptible, and it is reckoned eri- minal to espouse the cause of virtue. , Men originally entered into covenants and civil compacts with each other for the promotion of their happiness ‘and well- being, for the establishment of justice and Public peace. How comes it then that they look stupidly on, and tamely acquiesce when wicked men pervert this end, and establish an arbitrary tyranny of their own, upon the foundation of fraud and oppression? Among beasts, who are incapable of being civilized by social laws, it is no strange thing to see innocent, helpless sheep fall a prey to dogs, wolves, and kites: but it is amazing how mankind could ever sink down to such a low de- gree of base cowardice, as to suffer some of the worst of their species to usurp a power over them, to super-~ sede the righteous laws of good government, and to exercise all kinds of injustice and hardship, in gratifying their own vicious lusts. Wherever such enormities are practised, it is when a few rapacious statesmen combine together to get and secure the power in their own hands, and agree to divide the spoils among themselves. For as long as the cause is to be tried only among them- selves, no question but they will always vouch for each other. But, at the same time, it is hard to determine which resembles brutes most, they in acting, or the people in suffering them toact their vile selfish schemes. A HAWK, pursuing 2 pigeon over 3 corn-field with : Ot Wi great eagerness and force, herself into a net, which a husbandman crows ; who being employed not E the Hawk fluttering 1 the net, came a aK but, just as he was going to kill hii t hiv i be sought him to let him go, assurih im i 1 intended, nor Only a I Pigeon, and oo the Farmer re- 1 harm had the poor Pigeon done to Pie Coo “hich he wrung his head off immediately. THE APPLICATION. i judi may so far blind 2 ion, prejudice, OF power, may sO es a 3 affer him justly to distinguish whether t he 0 La at the same time that he is not acting injuriously, Now, the best way i ing his duty. fancies he is only doing wy of being convinced, whether what we do is reas b = : : : the place of the persons and fit, is to put gbrsclves in he en consult our with whom we are concerned, and th pnvepemmp———— NR ATR ESOP’S FABLES. 29% conscience about the rectitude of our behaviour. For this we may be assured of, that we are acting wrong, whenever we are doing any thing to another, which we should think unjust if it was done to us. Nothing but an habitual inadvertency, as to this particular, can be the occasion that so many ingenuous, noble spirits are: often engaged in courses so opposite to virtue and ho- nour. He that would startle if a little attorney should tamper with him to forswear himself, to bring off some small offender, some ordinary trespasser, will, without scruple, infringe the constitution of his country, for the precarious prospect of a place or pension. Which is. most corrupt, he that lies, like a knight of the post, for half-a-crown and a dinner, or he that does it for the more substantial consideration of a thousand pounds a year? Which would be doing most service te the public; giving true testimony in a cause between two private men, and against one little common thief, who has stolen a gold watch; or voting honestly and: courageously against a rogue of state, who has gagged and bound the laws, and stript the nation ? Let those: who intend to act justly but view things in this light, and all would be well. “There would be no danger of their oppressing others, or fear of being oppressed themselves. ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXXXII. Dearu and CupIbp. —— TIT ———— EEA ry grim re h ‘ — 0 | 1D, one sultry summer’s noon, tired with play and faint “with heat, went into a cool grotto to 2 himself, which happened to be the cave 2 Death. He threw himself carelessly dows on the d his quiver turning topsy-turvy, a . Bos fell oa mingled with, those of Degh, which lay scattered up and down the place. Wie he awoke, gathered them up, as well as he oo 3 but they were so intermingled, that though he Sew the certain number, he could not rightly distinguis them ; from which it happened, that he took u Some of the arrows which belonged to Death, and eft = veral of his own in the room of them. This x the cause that we, now and then, see the hearts of t e old and decrepid transfixed with the bolts of Jove, 3 and with rr grief and surprise, behold the you ful, blooming part of our species smitten with the darts of Death. ZESOP’S FABLES. 225 THE APPLICATION. If we allow for this fable’s being written by a hea- then, and according to the scheme of the ancient pagan theology, it will appear to be a pretty probable solution of some part of the dispensations of Providence, which otherwise seem to be obscure and unaccountable. For, when we sce the young and the old fall promiscuously by the hand of Death, and at the same time consider that the world is governed by an all-wise Providence, we are puzzled how to account for so seemingly pre- posterous and unnatural a way of working. We should look upon a gardener to be mad, or at least very capri~ cious, who, when his young trees are arrived fo a de- gree of bearing, should cut them down for fuel ; and choose out old rotten, decayed, sapless stocks to graft and inoculate upon: yet the irregular proceedings of those two levellers, Love and Death, appear to be every jot as odd and unreasonable. However, we must take it for granted, that these thing s, though the method of them is hidden from our eyes, are transacted after the most just and fit manner imaginable ; but, human speaking, it is strange that Death should be suffered to make such undistinguished havoc in the world, and at the same time, just as shocking and unnatural to see old age laid betwixt a pair of wedding-sheets, as it is for youth and beauty to be locked up in the cold em- braces of the grave. ASOP’'S FABLES. FABLE CXXXIII. Zhe DovE and the ANT. — Tur Ant, compelled by thirst, went to Selik i" a clear, purling rivulet; but the current, wid 1 pr circling eddy, snatched her away, and carried h down the stream. A Dove, pitying her distres x condition, cropt a branch from = neighbouring FE and let it fall into the water, by means of which the Ant saved herself, and got ashore. Not long ps a Fowler having a design against the Dove, plante his nets in due order, without the bird’s observing what he was about ; which the Ant perceiving, juss as he was going to put his design 1n Sseueion, 5 : bit him by the heel, and made him give 2 su start, that the Dove took the alarm, and flew away. THE APPLICATION. e good turn deserves another; and gratitude 1s chon Bs so noble and natural a spirit, that he Bagh) to be looked upon as the vilest of creatures, Who ia no sense of it, It is indeed so very just and equits’ be a thing, and so much every man's duty, that to spea < 5 4% ESOP'S FABLES. 237 it properly, one should not mention it as any thing me- ritorious, or that may claim praise and admiration, any more than we should say a man ought to be rewarded or commended for not killing his father, or forbearing to set fire to his neighbour’s house. The bright and shining piece of morality, therefore, which is recom- mended to us in this fable, is set forth in this example of the Dove, who, withoutany obligation or expectation, does a voluntary office of charity to itsfellow-creature iz distress. The constant, uninterrupted practice of this virtue is the only thing in which we are eapable of imi- tating the great Author of our Being; whose Beloved Son, besides the many precepts he has given to enforce this duty, used this expression as a common saying, It is more Llessed to give than to receive. FABLE CXXXI1V. The EicLE and the Crow... AN Eagle flew done from the top of a high rock, and settled upon the back of a lamb; and then im- stantly flying up into the air again, bore his bleating: prize aloft in his pounces. A Crow who sat upon am wa | ARE i Ll 228 ASOP’S FABLES. elm, and beheld his exploit, resolved to imitate 1t 3 $0 flying down upon the back of a Ram, and en- tangling his claws in the wool, he fell a chattering and attempting to fly ; by which means he drew the ob- servation of the shepherd upon him, who finding his feet hampered in the fleece of the Ram, easily took him, and gave him to his boys for their sport and diversion. THE APPLICATION. Every quality, which is excellent and commendable, is not, however, always a proper object for our imita-' tion. We ought to state our own account honestly and fairly, that we may see what our abilities are, and how our circumstances stand : otherwise, we may not only become ridiculous to others, but prejudicial to ourselves, by some awkward and ill-judged emulation; though it happen to be in a qualification truly laudable and great. It behoves every man to exert a good share of indus- try towards the advancement of his interest, or, if he pleases, of his reputation. But then it is highly ne- cessary that he does this with a true regard to his own capacity, and without any danger of ‘exposing or em- barrassing himself in the operation. AESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXXXV. The Exvious Man and the CovEToUS. zoo a meyriiiCosesemmenmmie vw SSUSSME ST IS, AN envious Man happened to be offering up his prayers to Jupiter, just in the time and “ with a covetous miserable fellow. Jupiter, not caring to be troubled with their impertinencies himself, sent Apollo to examine the merits of their petitions, and to give them such relief as he should think pro- per. Apollo therefore opened his commission, and withal told them, that, to make short of the matter, whatever the one asked, the other should have it dou- ble. Upon this, the covetous Man, though he had a thousan things to request, yet forbore to ask first, Roping to receive a double quantity ; for he conclu- ded, that all men’s wishes sympathized with his. By this means, the envious man h d an opportunity of preferring his petition first, which was the thing he aimed at; so, without much hesitation, he prayed to be relieved by having one of his eyes put out; know- ~ deprived of both. ing that, of consequence, his companion would be 230 ESOP’S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. In this fable, the folly of those two vices, envy and avarice, is fully exposed, and handsomely rallied. The miser, though he has the riches of the world, without stint, laid open to his choice, yet dares not name the sum, for fear another should be richer than himself. The advantage of a double quantity, by receiving last, is what he cannot bear to lose, and he fares accordingly. The envious man, though he has a power cf calling for good things, without measure, to himself or others, yet waves this happy privilege, and is contented to punish himself by a very great loss, even that of an eye, that he may bring down a double portion of the like cala- mity upon another. These are the true tempers of the covetous and envious ; one can scarce determine whe- ther they are more mischievous to themselves, or to the public; but it is manifest, that they are highly noxious to both, and should be treated accordingly. FABLE CXXXVI. The Fox and the Lion. it Be rer (TIE 1 UR re ERR i 4 i 7 7) (20 es | Tux frst time the Fox saw the Lion, he fll down at his feet, and was ready to die with fear. ZSOP’S FABLES. 231 The second time he took courage, and could even bear to look upon him. The third time he had the impudence to come up to him, to salute him, and to enter into familiar conversation with him. THE APPLICATION. From this fable we may observe the two extremes in which we may fall, as to proper behaviour towards our superiors: the one is a bashfulness, proceeding either from a vicious, guilty mind, or a timorous rusticity : the other, an overbearing impudence, which assumes more than becomes it, and so renders the person insufferable to the conversation of well-bred, reasonable people. But there is this difference between the bashfulness that arises from a want of education, and the shame- facedness that accompanies conscious guilt; the first, by a continuance of time and a nearer acquaintance, may be ripened into a proper, liberal behaviour ; the other no sooner finds an easy, practicable access, but it throws off all manner of reverence, grows every day more and more familiar, and branches out into the ut- most indecency and irregularity. Indeed, there are many occasions which may happen to cast an awe, or even a terror upon our minds at first view, without any just and reasonable grounds: but upon a little recol- lection, or a nearer insight, we recover ourselves, and can appear indifferent and unconcerned, where, before, we were ready to sink under a load of diffidence and fear. We should, upon such occasions, use our endea- vours to regain a due degree of steadiness and resolu- tion; but, at the same time, we must have a care that our efforts in that respect do not ferce the balance too much, and make it rise to an unbecoming freedom, and an offensive familiarity. 232 ZSOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXXXVIL. The GEESE and the CRANES. RT i AVR” er = io Ie fES ii gl Hig A Frock of Geese and a parcel of Cranes used often to feed together in a corn field. At last, the owner of the corn, with his servants, coming upon them of a sudden, surprised them in- the very fact; and the Geese being heavy, fat, full-bodied crea- tures, were most of them sufferers ; but the Cranes, being thin and light, easily flew away. THE APPLICATION. When the enemy comes to make a seizure, they are sure to suffer most, whose circumstances are the richest and fattest. In any case of persecution, money hangs like a dead weight about a man; and we never feel gold so heavy as when we endeavour to make off with it. Therefore wise and politic ministers of state, whenever they see a storm begin to gather over their heads, al- ‘ways take care to unlade themselves of a good part of their cargo; and, by this means, seldom find but the blasts of obloguy, through which they are to make their way, are less deaf and inexorable than the stormy waves of the ocean. Indeed poverty is too frequently the occa- sion of men’s being treated as if they were guilty of the ZESOP’S FABLES. 233 greatest crimes and reproaches: but then, these sort of criminals have this advantage, that no one thinks fit to treat them with any thing worse than contempt: where- as, if any pretence can be found to fall upon the man who is rich, it is a miracle if he escapes with both life and money. In short, riches are like the baggage of an army; very useful, while we lie in quiet possession of the camp, or are powerful enough to defy the enemy; but when once we are put to the rout, if we would get off with our lives or liberties, we must quit our baggage as soon as possible, and leave it for plunder to our pur- suers. Nay, however strongly intrenched we may think ourselves, as long as money is in the case, it is good to look about us for fear of a surprise : for, after all, he that does not, upon occasion, make himself wings with his riches to fly off with, deserves to be punished, like a goose as he 1s, for his heaviness. FABLE CXXXVIII. The Horsk and the Ass. sp———— FER Tk erasing dy i lus: rt Rati sesnil] Blinn ss | Tae Horse, adorned with his and champing his foaming bridle, came thyedesing fone the way, and made the mountains echo wit his} loud shrill neighing. He had not gone far, 234 ESOP’S FABLES. before he overtook an Ass, who was labouring under a heavy burthen, and moving slowly on in the same track with himself. Immediately he called out to him, in a haughty, imperious tone, and threatened to trample him in the dirt, if he did not break the way for bm. The poor patient Ass, not daring to dis- ute the matter, quietly got out of his way, as fast as be could, and let him go by. Not long after this, the same Horse, in an engagement with the enemy, hap- pened to be shot in the eye, which made him unfit for show, or any military business, so he was stript of his fine ornaments, and sold to a carrier. The Ass, meeting him in this forlorn condition, thought that now it was his time to insult ; and so, says he, Hey- day, friend, is it you! Well, I always believed that pride of yours would one day have a fall. THE APPLICATION. Pride is a very unaccountable yjce : many people fall into it unawares, and are often led into it by motives which, if they considered things rightly, would make them abhor the very thoughts of it. There is no man that thinks well of himself, but desires that the rest of the world should think so too. Now it is the wrong measures we take in endeavouring after this, that expose us to discerning people in that light which they call pride, and which is so far from giving us any advan- tage in their estéem, that it renders us despicable and ridiculous. [tis an affectation of appearing censider- able that puts men upon being proud and insolent; and their very being so, makes them, infallibly, little and inconsiderable. The man that claims and calls for re- verence and respect, deserves none; he that asks for applause, is sure to lose it; the certain way to get itis to seem to shun it ; and the humble man, according to the maxims even of this world, is the most likely to be exalted. He that, in his words or actions, pleads for superiority, and rather chooses to do an ill action, than condescend to do a good one, acts like a horse, and is ESOP’S FABLES. 235 as void of reasoning and understanding. Therichand the werful want nothing but the love and esteem of man- kind to complete their felicity ; and these they are sure to obtain by a good-humoured, kind condescension ; and as certain of being every body's aversion, while the least tincture of overbearing rudeness is percepti- ble in their words or actions. What brutal tempers must they be of, who can be easy and indifferent, while they know themselves to be universally hated, though in the midst of affluence and power? But this is not all; for if ever the wheel of fortune should whirl them from the top to the bottom, instead of friendship or commiseration, they will meet with nothing but con- tempt ; and that with much more justice than ever they themselves exerted it towards others. FABLE CXXXIX. The HusBANpDMAN and his SoNSs.. ee HE a= TER mv ] LT i il | ) | ! 3 od \ " 5 SRN 3 a > 4 Th [RE 5 I 7 S 3 == \ i o, gt ; & ti : LN fly, No bah SE ¢ w a ihe — = ih abe Pha Hamid iz Forrse — ee — A CERTAIN Husbandman lying at the point of death, and being desirous his Sons should pursue that innocent, entertaining course of agtioulswip) in which himself had been engaged all his life, made use of this expedient to induce them to it. He called them to his bed-side, and spoke to this effect. All 236 ZSOP’S FABLES. the patrimony I have to bequeath to you, Sons, is my farm and my vineyard, of which I make you joint-heirs. But I charge you not to let it go out of your own oc- cupation : for, if I have any treasure besides, it lies buried somewhere in the ground, within a foot of the surface. This made the Sons conclude that he talked of money which he had hid there: so, after their father’s death, with unwearied diligence and application, they carefully dug up every inch, both of the farm and vine- yard. From which it came to pass, that though they missed of the treasure which they expected, the ground, by being so well stirred and loosened, produced so plentiful a crop of all that was sowed in it, as proved a real, and that no inconsiderable treasure. THE APPLICATION. Labour and industry, well applied, seldom fail of find- ing a treasure; and since something towards the conve- niencies and pleasures of life may be thus procured, why should we lose and throw it away, by being slothful and idle? Exercise is a great support of health, and health is by far the greatest singleblessing of life; which alone will weigh sufficient with any considerate man; so as to keep him from being utterly destitute of employment. But of all kinds of treasure which are sure to reward the di- ligence of the active man, none is more agreeable, either in the pursuit or possession, than that which arises from the culture of the earth. What can be more satisfacto- ry, than to have our hopes grow and increase every day with the product of the ground; to have our minds en- tertained with the wonderful economy of the vegetable world; our nerves strengthened, and our blood purified, by a constant return of exercise; and a new relish given to every meal from the fragrancy of the air and freshness of the soil; add to all these, that the treasures and de- lights of agriculture are so various, thatthey are noteasi- ly to be described, and are never to be excelled. They are scarce to be conceived by one that has not felt them, nor to be truly painted by any but the greatest of poets. ZESOP’S FABLES. 237 FABLE CXL. The Horse and the Lion. ET Tg em AE gt a hi i i ( EY ik J ny ' iH + ! bi | iw stitiyg jig 7 l 7 Zt ERE, BEE Sal ce NRNE 22 2ST SRW 4 . GN ney \ VIE Oe IR te f ns NI © SRXDy il = EN, Pi | (es = ji bobs : = : nN A Liox, seeing a fine plump Nag, had a mind to eat a bit of him, pe TW Bo nT to get him into his power. At last he bethought himself of this contrivance ; he gave out that he was a physician, who, having gained experience by his travels into foreign countries, had made him- self capable of curing any sort of malady or distemper, cident to any kind of beast ; hoping by this strata- gem to get an easier admittance among ‘cattle, and find an opportunity to execute his design. The Horse, who smoked the matter, was resolved to be even with him; and so humouring the thing, as if he suspected nothing, he prayed the Lion to give him his advice in relation to a thorn he had got in his foot, which had quite lamed him, and gave him great pain and uneasiness. The Lion readily agreed, and desired he might see the foot. Upon which the Horse lifted up one of his hind legs, and while the Lion pretended to be poring earnestly upon the hoof, gave him such a kick in the face as quite 238 ZSOP’'S FABLES. stunned him and left him sprawling upon the ground, In the mean time the horse trotted away, neighing, and laughing merrily at the success of the trick by which he had defeated the purpose of one who in- tended to have tricked him out of his life. THE APPLICATION. Though all manner of fraud and wicking is mean, and utterly beneath a man of sense and honour, yet methinks, equity itself allows us to disappoint the deceiver, and to repel craft by cunning. Treachery has something so wicked, and worthy of punishment in its nature, that it deserves tc meet with a return of its own kind; an open revenge would be too liberal for it, and nothing matches it but itself. However therefore abominable it is, to be the aggressor in this point, yet it cannot be inconsistent with virtue to counterplot, and to take all manner of advantage against the man who is undermining us. a A Lion and a Bear fell together by the ears, over the carcase of a Fawn, which they found in the forest, their title to him being to be decided by force of arms. ‘The baitle was severe and tough on both ASOP’S FABLES, 239 sides, and they held it out, tearing and worrying one another so long, that, what with wounds and fatigue, they were so faint and weary, they were not able to strike another stroke. Thus, while they lay upon the ground, panting and lolling out their tongues, a Fox chanced to pass by that way, who, perceiving how the case stood, very impudently stepped in between them, seized the booty which they had all this while been contending for, and carried it off. The two combat- ants, who lay and beheld all this, without having strength enough to stir and prevent it, were only wise enough to make this reflection: Behold the fruits of our strife and contention! that villain, the Fox, bears away the prize, and we ourselves have deprived each other of the power to recover it from him. ' THE APPLICATION. When people go to law about an uncertain title, and have spent their whole estate in the contest, nothing is more common than for some little pettifogging attorney to step in and to secure it to himself. The very name of law seems to imply equity and justice, and that is the bait which has drawn in many to their ruin. Others are excited by their passions, and care not if they de- stroy themselves, so they do but see their enemy perish with them. But, if we lay aside prejudice and folly, and think calmly of the matter, we shall ind, that going to law is not the best way of deciding differences about property; it being, generally speaking, much safer to trust to the arbitration of two or three honest, sensible neighbours, than, at a vast expense of money, time, and trouble, to run through the tedious, frivolous forms, with which, by the artifice of greedy lawyers, a court of judicature is contrived to be attended. It hasbeen said, that if mankind would lead moral, virtuous lives, there would be no occasion for divines; if they would but. live temperately and soberly, that they would never want physicians; both which assertions, though truein the main, are yet expressed in too great a latitude. 240 ZESOP’'S FABLES. But one may venture to affirm, that if men preserved a strict regard to justice and honesty in their dealings with each other, and upon any mistake or misapprehen- sion, were always ready to refer the matter to disinte- rested umpires of acknowledged judgmentand integrity, they could never have the least occasion for lawyers. When people have gone to law, it is rarely tobe found but one or both parties are either stupidly obstinate, or rashly inconsiderate. For, if the case should happen to be so intricate, that a man of common sense could not distinguish who had the best title, how easy would it be to have the opinion of the best counsel in the land, and agree to determine it by that? If it should appear dubious even after that, how much better would it be to divide the thing in dispute rather than go to law, and hazard the losing, not only of the whole, but costs and damages into the bargain? FABLE CXLII. The Fox and the Sick Lion. - ~N It was reported that the Lion was sick, and the beasts were made to believe that they could not make their court better, than by going to visit him. Upon this, they generally went ; ut it was particu=- ZASOP’S FABLES. 241 larly taken notice of, that the Fox was not one of the: number. The Lion therefore dispatched one of his Jackalls to sound him about it, and ask him why he had so little charity and respect as never to come near him at a time when he lay so dangerously ill, and every body else had been to see him. Why, replies the Fox, pray, present my duty to his majesty, and tell him, that I have the same respect for him as ever, and have been coming several times to kiss his royal hand ; but I am so terribly frightened at the mouth of his cave, to see the print of my fellow subjects feet, all pointing forwards, and none backwards, that I have not resolution enough to venture in. Now, the truth of the matter was, that the sickness of the Lion was only a sham to draw the beasts into his den, the more easily to devour them. THE APPLICATION, A man should weigh and consider the nature of any proposal well, before he gives into it: for a rash and hasty compliance has been the ruin of many a one. And itis the quintessence of prudence not to be too easy of belief. Indeed the multitude think altogether in the same track, and are much upon a foot. Their medita- tions are confined in one channel, and they follow one another very orderly in a regular stupidity. Can a man of thoughtand spirit be harnessed thus, and trudge along like a pack-horse, in a deep stinking muddy road, when he may frisk it over the beauteous lawns, or lose him- selfagreeablyinthe shady, verdant mazes of unrestrained contemplation? It is impossible. Vulgar notions are so generally attended with error, that wherever one traces the footsteps of the many tending all one way, it is enough to make one suspect, with the Fox in the fable, that there is some trick init. The eye of reason is dulled and stupified when it is confined and made to gaze continually upon the same thing: it rather chuses to look about it, and amuse itself with variety of objects, . M 243 ESOP’S FABLES. as they lie scattered up and down in the unbounded prospect. He that goes implicitly upon a thing may be mistaken, notwithstanding the numberof those who keep Bhim company ; but he that keeps out tll he sees reason to enter, acts upon true maxims of policy and prudence. In short, it becomes us, as we are reasonable creatures, to behave ourselves as such, and to do as few thiugs as possible, of which we may have occasion to repent. FABLE CXLIII. The Mice in CouNcIL. Tir Mice called a general council ; and having met after the doors were locked, entered into a free consultation about ways and means how to ren- dor their fortunes and estates more secure from the danger of the Cat. Many things were offered, and much was debated, pro and con, upon the matter. At last a young Mouse, in a fine florid speech, con- eluded upon an expedient, and that the only one, which was to put them for the future entirely out of the power of the enemy ; and this was, that the Cat ESOP’S FABLES. 243 should wear a bell about her neck, which, upon the least motion, would give the alarm, and be a signal for them to retire into their holes. This speech was received with great applause, and it was even pro- posed by some, that the Mouse who made it should have the thanks of the assembly. Upon which, an old grave Mouse, who had sat silent all the while, stood up, and in another speech, owned that the con- trivance was admirable, and the author of it, without doubt, an ingenious Mouse; but, he said, he thought it would not be so proper to vote him thanks, tili he should farther inforin them how this bell was to be fastened about the Cat's neck, and what Mouse would undertake to do it. THE APPLICATION. Many things appearsensiblein speculation, which are afterwards found to be impracucable. And since the execution of auy thing is that which is to complete and finish its very existence, whai raw counsellors are those who advise, what precipitate politicians those who proceed to the management of things in their na- ture incapable of answering their own expectations, or their promises to others! At the same time, the fable teaches us, not to expose ourselves in any of our little coffee-house committees, by determining what should be done upon every ocenrrence of mal-administrationy when we have neither commission nor power to exes cute it. He that upon sueh occasion adjudges, as & preservative of the state, that this or that should be applied to the neck of those who have been enemies toit, will appear full as ridiculous as the Mouse in the fable, when the question is asked, who shall put it there? In reality, we do but expose ourselves to the hatred of some, and the contempt of others, when we inadver- tently utter our impracitcable speculations, in respect of the public, either in private company, or authorised assemblies. M 2 244 ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXLIV. The Lion, the Ass, and the Fox. a Ww. CEES - 1 Tae Lion, the Ass, and the Fox, went a hunt- ing together in the forest ; and it was agreed, that whatever was taken should be divided amongst them. They happened to have very good sport, and caught a large fat Stag, which the Lion ordered the Ass todivide. The Ass, according to the best of his capa- city, did so, and made three pretty equal shares. But such leveling doings not suiting at all the craving tem- per of the greedy Lion, without farther delay he flew upon the Ass, and tore him in pieces; and then bid the Fox divide it in two parts. Reynard, who seldom wanted a prompter, however, had his cue given him sufficiently upon this occasion ; and so, nibbling off one little Lit for himself, he laid forth all the rest for the Lion's portion. The royal brute was so delighted at this dutiful and handsome proof of his respect, that he could not forbear expressing the satisfaction it gave him; and asked him withal, where he could possibly have learnt so proper and so courtly a beha- ASOP’S FABLES. 245 viour? Why, replies Reynard, to tell your majesty the truth, I was taught it by the Ass that lies dead there. THE APPLICATION. We may learn a great deal of useful experience frome the examples of other people, if we will but take the pains to observe them. And, besides the profit of the instructions, there is no small pleasure in being taught any proper science, at the expense of somebody else. o this purpose, the history of former times, as well as the transactions of the present, are very well adapt- ed, and so copious as to be able to furnish us wilh precedents upon almost every occasion. The rock upon which another has split, is a kind of light-house or beacon, to warn us from the like calamity; and by taking such an advantage, how easily may we steer a safe course! He that, in any negociation with his bet- ters, does not well and wisely consider how to behave himself, so as not to give offence, may very likely come off as the Ass did : but a cool thinking man, though he should despair of ever making friends of the people in power, will be cautious and prudent enough to do nothing which may provoke them to be his enemies. 246 ASOP'S FABLES. FABLE CXLV. The Oup Lion. an - rT li _- CHIR Ni ing = agence] Hg bith sy 3 “iif iy i {om ih 1" of | 1 1 - : ail i an + all i y Ee ret Hi i A Liox, worn out with age, lay fetching his last sp, and agonizing in the convulsive struggles of eath. Upon which occasion several of the beasts, who had formerly been sufferers by him, came and revenged aie: upon him. The Boar with his mighty tusks, drove at him a stroke that glanced like lightning. And the Bull gored him with his violent horns. W hich when the Ass saw they might do without any danger, he too came up, and threw his heels into the Lion's face. Upon which, the poor old expiring tyrant uttered these words with his last dying groan : Alas! how grievous is it to suffer insults, even from the brave and the valiant ; but to be spurned by so base a creature as this is, who is the disgrace of na- ture, is worse than dying ten thousand deaths ! THE APPLICATION. He that would bereverenced and respected by the rest of mankind, must lay in a foundation for it of some kind or other; for people cannot be persuaded to pay I i wesc ESOP'S FABLES. 2% deference and esteem for nothing. So that though we bave lived in good repute in the world, if ever we should happen to outlive our stock, we must not be surprised to find ourselves slighted and affronted, even by the vilest scum of the people. If therefore we would raise to ourselves a dignity that will continue not only to the end of our lives, but extend itself far down among the ages of posterity, we should take care to establish it upon a foundation of virtue and goodshature : this will not only preserve us from the insults of our enemies, but upon occasion, surround us with a trusty guard of faithful and sincere friends. FABLE CXLVL The Oo Max and his Sons. iL JL Tai ’3 ; Ax old man had many Sons, who were often fall ing out with one another. When the father had exerted his authority, and used other means in order to reconcile them, and all to no purpose, at last he had recourse to this expedient: he ordered his Sens to be called before him, and a short bundle of sticks to be brought ; and then commanded them, one by one, to try if, with all their might and oi they could any of them break it. They all tried, but to no 248 ZAESOP’S FABLES. urpose; for the sticks being closely and compactly und up together, it was impossible for the force of man todo it. After this the father ordered the bundle to be untied, and gave a single stick to each of his sons, at the same time bidding him try to break it: which when each did with all imaginable ease, the father addressed himself to them to this effect. O my sons, behold the power of unity ! For, if you, in like manner, would but keep yourselves strictly con- joined in the bonds of friendship, it would not be in the power of any mortal to hurt you ; but when once the ties of brotherly affection are dissolved, how soon do you fall to pieces, and are liable to be violated by every injurious hand that assaults you! THE APPLICATION. Nothing is more necessary towards completing and continuing the well-being of mankind, than their enter- ing into, and preserving friendship and alliances. The safety of a government depends chiefly upon this; and therefore it is weakened and exposed to its enemies, in proportion as it is divided by parties. 4 kingdom di- vided against itself is brought to desolation. And the same holds good among all societies and corporations of men, from the constitution of the nation down to every little parochial vestry. But the necessity of friendship extends itself to all sorts of relations in life; as it conduces mightily to the advantage of particular clans and families. Those of the same blood and line- age have a natural disposition to unite together, which they ought, by all means, to cultivate and improve. It must be a great comfort to people, when they fall under any calamity, to know that there are many others sym- athise with them; a great load of grief is mightily essened, when it is parcelled out into many shares. And then joy, of all our passions, loves to be commu- nicative, and generally increases, in proportion: to the number of those who partake of it with us. We defy the threats and malice of an enemy, when we are as- ZESOP’S FABLES. 249 sured that he cannot attack us single, but must en- counter a bundle of allies at the same time. Bat they that behave themselves so as to have few or no friends in the world, live in a perpetual fear and jealousy of mankind, because they are sensible of their own weak- ness, and know themselves liable to be crushed, or broken to pieces, by the first aggressor. FABLE CXLVIIL. The Op Woman and her Marps. A CerTAIN old woman had several Maids, whom she used to call up to their work, every morning at the crowing of the cock. The wenches, who found it grievous to have their sweet sleep disturbed so carly, combined together and killed the cock, thinking that, when the alarm was gone, they might enjoy themselves in their warm beds a little longer. The old Woman, grieved for the loss of her cock, and having, by some means or other, discovered the whole plot, .was resolved to be even with them ; for, from that time, she obliged them to rise constantly at midnight. MS £60 ESOP’'S FABLES. THE APPLICATION. It can never be expected that things should be, in all respects, agreeable to our wishes: and if they are not verybad indeed, we ought in many cases to be contented with them ; lest when, through impatience, we precipi- tately quit our present condition of life, we may to our sorrow find, with the old saying, that seldom comes a better. Before we attempt any alteration of moment, we should be certain what state it will produce : for, when things are already bad, to make them worse by trying experiments, is an argument of great weakness and folly, and is sure to be attended with a too late repentance. Grievances, if really such, ought by all means to be redressed, provided we can be assured of doing it with success : but we had better, at any time, bear with some inconvenience, than make our condi- tion worse, by attempting to mend it. FABLE CXLVIIL The FairconER and the PARTRIDGE. — TRI, ppp: = Wig, EE iggy 3 ~ met! -- i il : diss id fi enna esta BN Siero . » : in his here / ESOP'S FABLES. 251 man, if he would let him go, to decoy other Part- ridges into his net. No, replies the Falconer, I was before determined not to spare you, but now you have condemned yourself by your own words; for he who is such a scoundrel as to offer to betray his friends to save himself, deserves, if possible, worse than death. THE APPLICATION. However it may be convenient for us to like the trea- son, yet we must be very destitute of honour not to hate and abominate the traitor. And accordingly, history furnishes us with many instances of kings and great men, who have punished the actions of treachery with death, though the part they had acted had been so conducive to their interests, as to give them a vie- tory, or perhaps the quiet possession of a throne. Nor can princes pursue a more just maxim than this; for a traitor is a villain of no principles, that sticks at no- thing to promote his own selfish ends : he that betrays one cause for a great sum of money, will betray an- other upon the same account; and therefore it must be very impolitic in a state to suffer such wretches to live in it. Since then this maxim is so good, and se likely at all times to be practised, what stupid rogues must they be, who undertake such precarious dirty work | If they miscarry, it generally proves fatal to them from one side or the other ; if they succeed, per- haps they may have the promised reward, but are sure to be detested, if suffered to live, by the very person that employs them, 252 ESOP’S- FABLES. FABLE CXLIX. The PorcupPINE and the SNAKES. Ta rea EZ Ty it To" -— an 0) i HR i i at 4! HY "XN 2 br, > ge LY oy rt al hilt Bele 3 ox her, : i 1 kl ' “ul + (Ri: ot Ll RR LRT ~ of 2% edi Hh s whi i wih sei sam Sallns Why hy re aie bl Bl i A PORCUPINE, wanting to shelter himself, desired a nest of Snakes to give him admittance to their cave. They were prevailed upon, and let him 1n ac- cordingly, but were so annoyed with his sharp prickly quills, that they soon repented of their easy compli- ance, and entreated the Porcupine to withdraw and leave them their hole to themselves. No, says he, let them quit the place that don’t like it; for my part I am well enough satisfied as I am. THE APPLICATION. " Some people are of so brutish, inhospitable tempers, that there is no living with them, without greatly in- commoding ourselves. Therefore, before we enter nto any degree of friendship, alliance, or partnership, with any person whatever, we should thoroughly consi- der his nature and qualities, his circumstances and his humour. There ought to be something in each of these respects totally to correspond with our own measures, to suit our genius, and adapt itself to the size and pro- portion of our desires; otherwise our associations, of ZSOP’S FABLES. 253 whatever kind, may prove the greatest plagues of our life. Young men are very apt to run into this error ; and being warm in all their passions, throw open their arms at once, and admit into greatest intimacy persons whom they know little of, but by false and uncertain lights. Thus they sometimes receive a viper into their bosom, instead of a friend, and take a porcupine for a consort, with whom they are obliged to cohabit, though she may prove a thorn in their sides as long as they live. A true friend is one of the greatest blessings in life ; therefore, to be mistaken or disappointed of such enjoyment, when we hope to be in full possession of it, must be a great mortification. So that we can- not be too nice and scrupulous in our choice of those who are to be our companions for life ; for they must have but a poor shallow notion of friendship, who in- tended to take it, like a lease, for a term of years only. In a word, the doctrine which this fable speaks, is to prepare us against being injured or deceived by rash combination of any sort. The mannerof the man wede- sire for a friend, of the woman we like for a wife, of the person with whom we would jointly manage and concert measures for the advancement of our temporal interest, should be narrowly and cautiously inspected, before we embark with them in the same vessel, lest we should alter our mind when it is too late, and think of regain- ing the shore, after we have launched out of our depth. 254 ZESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CL. The Peacock and the MacrvE. = ea i Fite IH =o | Sear AU > oS Tue Birds met together upon a time, to choose a king. And the Peacock standing candidate, dis- played his gaudy plumes, and catched the eyes of the silly multitude with the richness of his feathers. The majority declared for him, and clapped their wings with great applause. But, just as ey were going to aim him, the Magpye stept forth in the midst of the assembly, and addressed himself thus to the new king : May it please your Majesty elect, to permit one of your unworthy subjects to represent to you his suspicions and apprehensions, in the face of this whole congregation: we have chosen you for our king, we have put our lives and fortunes into your hands, and our whole hope and dependence is upon you if therefore the Eagle, or the Vulture, or the ite, should at any time make a descent upon us, as it is highly Sot they will, may your majesty be so gracious as to dispel our fears and clear our doubts about that matter, by letting us know how you in- ESOP’S FABLES. 55 tend to defend us against them ? This pithy, un- answerable question drew the whole audience into so just a reflection, that they soon resolved to proceed to a new choice. But from that time the Peacock has been looked upon as a vain insignificant pretender, and the Magpye esteemed as eminent a speaker as any in the whole community of birds. THE APPLICATION. Form and outside, in the choice of a ruler, should not be so much regarded, as the qualities and endowments of the mind. In choosing heads of corporations, from the king of the land, down to the master of a company, upon every new election it should be inquired into, which of the candidates is most capable of advancing the good and welfare of the community ; and upon him the choice should fall. But the eyes of the multitude are so dazzled with pomp and shew, noise and cere- mony, that they cannot see things really as they are: and from hence it comes to pass, that so many absur- dities are committed and maintained in the world. People should examine and weigh the real weight aad’ merit of the person, and not be imposed upoa by false colours and pretences of I know not what. 256. ZASOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLI. The PArroT and his CAGE. he UOT TiO BRE USL TE BEE IHL I ET = SORTA DOE ey! os ~~ 1 an A ) : fl t 4 ALY ii ene =| =| == Ms A Parrot which belonged to a person of qua- lity, was fed every day with plenty of choice dainties, and kept in a stately Cage, which was set abroad, upon a marble table, in the garden, that he might enjoy the light of the sky, and the freshness of the air to the best advantage. His master, and all the family, when they talked to him, used the most tender, fond expressions, and the disorder of his feathers was smoothed with kindly touches, by the fair hand of his lady. Yet, notwithstanding this happy situation, he was uneasy, and envied the condition of those birds who lived free in the wil- derness, and hopped up and down, unconfined, from bough to Fong. He Apis longed to lead the same life, and secretly pined with grief, because his wishes were denied him. After some time, however, it happened that the door of his was left unfastened, and the long-wished-for gory was given him of making an elopement. ccordingly, out he flew, and conveyed himself ZESOP'S FABLES. 7 among the shades of a neighbouring wood, where he thought to spend the remainder of his days in content. But, alas! poor Poll was mistaken; a thousand inconveniences, which he never dreamt of, attended this elopement of his, and he is now really that miserable creature which, before, his imagination only made him. He is buffeted by the savage inha itants of the a and his imi- tation of a human voice, which formerly rendered him so agreeable, does but the more expose him to the fierce resentment of the feathered nation. The delicate food with which he used to be fed, is no more; he is unskilled in the ways of provid- ing for himself, and even ready to die with hunger. A storm of rain, thunder, and lightning, fills all the air, and he has no place to screen or protect him; his feathers are wetted with the heavy shower, and blasted with the flashes of lightning. _.His tender nature, suited to a milder climate, could not stand the severe shock, he even died under it. “But, just before Lie breathed his last, he is said to have made this reflection: Ah, poor Poll! were you but in your own Cage again, you would never wander more. THE APPLICATION. This fable may be a proper lesson to those who are possessed with a spirit for rambling, and trying expe- riments ; who are so infatuated with these airy notions, that though they have a warm house over their heads, and a good table to eat at, kind indulgent parents, or fond husbands, yet they cannot be contented, but must sally forth into the wide world, and pass, as it were, into a new and untried being. - People may have felt ima- ginary inconveniences at home ; but as they have been: used to live in a dependance upon others, let them but: go abroad, and try to shift for themselves, and they will, in all probability, soon feel real miseries. No mA put , . CARE Re ET Te a a RT a " APE TTI i TIO. PRCT AS Me pr ithe! A VP IAL se ve 258 ASOP’S FABLES. ship puts to sea without em experienced pilot; nordo armies take the field, but under a general of conduct and courage : yet some women and children are so per- verse and wrong-headed, that they will leave a quiet, safe port, and launch out into a world of troubles and dangers, without the least share of discretion to steer theircourse by. How can they hope to escape splitting upon every rock, who are thus rash and adventurous ? A severe repentance, after such elopement, is generally as certain as it is useless and unregarded. FABLE CLII. The FowLEr and the ‘RINGDOVE. he ort 1 pin {nmi Gmiiadt Maes... A Fowrez bodk his gun, and went into the woods a shooting. es a Ringdove among the branches of an i. 2 Sng to kill Ne He clapped the piece to his shoulder, and took his aim accordingly ; but, just as he was going to pull the trigger, an adder, which he had trod upon under the grass, stung him so painfully in the leg, that he was to quit his design, and threw his gun down In a passion. ‘The blood, and his whale n immediately infected his body began to mortify ; which, ZSOP’S FABLES. 259 when he perceived, he eould not help owning it to be just. Fate, says he, has brought destruction upon me, while I was contriving the death of another. THE APPLICATION. This is another lesson against injustice ; a topic in which our just author abounds. And, if we consider the matter fairly, we must allow it to be as reasonable that some one.should do violence to us, as we should commit it upon another, When we are impartialin our reflec- tions, thus we must always think. The unjust man, with a hardened, unfeeling heart, can do a thousand bitter things to others ; but if a single calamity touches himself, oh, how tender he is! How insuppoitable is the uneasiness it occasions! Why should he think others born to hard treatment more than ourselves? or imagine it can be reasonable to do to another, what we ourselves should be unwilling to suffer! In our behaviour to all mankind, we need only ask ourselves these plaia ques- tions, and our consciences will tell us how to act. Con- science, like a good, valuable domestic, plays the re- membrancer to us upon all occasions, and gives us a gentle twitch, when we are going to do a wrong thing. It does not, like the adder inthe fable, bite us death, but only gives us kind cautions. However, if we neg- lect these just and frequent warnings, and continweina course of wickedness and injustice, donot let us be sur- prised if Providence thinks fit, at last, to give usa home sting, and to exercise a little retaliation upon us. ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLIII. The Sow and the WoLr. i ie 3 ta Hi | i r; 77 a i 7 4 le ry 7 7 4 ~ - — > fii Tee a | I J ol ss lll pe all atti! Pe wl eile A Sow had just farrowed, and lay in the stye with her whole litter of pigs about her. A Wolf, who longed for one of them, bat knew not how to come at 1t, endeavoured to insinuate himself into the Sow’s opinion. And accordingly, coming up to er, How does the good woman of the straw do? says he. Can I be of any service to yon, Mrs. Sow, in relation to your little family here? If you havea mind to go abroad, and air yourself a little or so, you may depend upon it I will take as much care of your Pigs as you could do yoursclf. Your humble servant, says the Sow, I thoroughly understand your meaning ; and, to let you know I do, I must be so free as to tell you, I had rather have your room than your company; and therefore, if you would act like a Wolf of honour, and oblige me, I beg I may never see your face again. /ZESOP’'S FABLES. 261 THE. APPLICATION. * I The being officiously good-natured and civil, is some- thing so uncommon in the world, that one cannot hear a man make profession of it, without being surprised, : or atleast suspecting the disinterestedness of his inten=. tions. Especially when one who is a stranger to us, or, - though known, is ill esteemed by us, will be making. offers of services, we have a great reason to look to our- selves, and exert a shyness and coldness towards him. We should resolve not to receive even favours from bad kind of people ; for, should it happen that some imme- diate mischief was not couched in them, yet it is dan- gerous to have obligations to such, or give them an opportunity of making a communication with us. if Me mrad T B HY of ile 2 2 es ei re ‘ iH abhi = 4 Ah He pees = oat, 1 1, vray TY | [Iho Wy bet ; —_ Ad La : : | ff STEN # Peis led I] \ ) » W \ yo. By a A ie ——————— rc ———- —— iy Ih otil] ll ye Gl dw Tue Husbandman pitched a net in his fields to take the Cranes and Geese which came to feed upon the new-sown corn. Accordingly, he took seve- ral, both Cranes and Geese; and among them a Stork, who had pleaded hard for his life, and among Gr Ee ROS LAE . VEE ST aS BEE MNS A SA Pn oN WS a a6 ESOP’S FABLES. other apologies which he made, alleged, that he was neither Goose nor Crane, but a poor harmless Stork, who performed his duty to his parents to all intents and purposes, feeding them.when they were old, and, as occasion required, carrying them from place to place upon his back. All this may be true, replies the Husbandman; but as I have taken you in bad company, and in the same crime; you must expect to suffer the same punishment. THE APPLICATION. * #bad company had nothing else to make us shun and avoid it, this, methinks, might be sufficient, that it in- fects and taints a man’s reputation to as great a degree as if he were thoroughly versed in the wickedness of the whole gang. What is it to me, if the thief, who robs me of my money, gives part of itto build a church? Is he ever the less a thief? Shall a woman's going to prayers twice a day save her reputation, if she is known to be a malicious lying gossip? No; such mix- tures of religion and sin make the offence but the more flagrant, as they convince us, that it was not committed out of ignorance. Indeed, there is no living without being guilty of some faults, more or less, which the world ought to be good natured enough to overlook, in consideration of the general frailty of mankind, when they are not too grass and too abundant. But, when we are so abandoned to stupidity, and a neglect of our reputation, as to keep bad company, however little we may be eriminal in reality, we must expect the same censure and punishment as is due to the most notorious of our companions. ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLV. The Sueruerp’s Boy. i i wet vl {fe fi (i hi %2 2% ef ’ y 7 [I Fal. Fr ee “Lib RTE A certain Shepherd's boy who kept she : a common, in sport and or vould 4 cry out, The Wolf! the Wolf! By this means he several times drew the Husbandmen in an adioin- ing ficld from their work ; who, finding thomssTe deluded, resolved for the future to take no notice of his alarm. Soon after, the Wolf came indeed. The hoy cried out in earnest. But no heed being given to his cries, the Sheep were devoured by the Wolf, THE APPLICATION. He that is detected of being a notorious li: ide the ignominy and reproach of the hy Lo Ledide mischief, that he will scarce be able to get any one re believe hin again, as long as he lives. However tr 2 our complaint may be, or how much soever it ma bo for our interest to have it believed, yet, if we have Foon frequently caught tripping before, we should hard] he able to gain credit to what we relate afterwards. Thog h mankind are generally stupid enough to be offen’ in. Er ——_ — Ee A SS sa a : EL 264 ESOP’S FABLES. posed upon, yet few are so senseless as to believe a no- torious liar, or to trust a cheat upon record. These little shams, when found out, are sufficiently prejudi- cial to the interest of every private person who practises them. But, when we are alarmed with imaginary dan- gers in respect to the public, till the cry grows quite stale and threadbare, how can it be expected we should know when to guard ourselves agajnst real ones? FABLE CLVI1. The SErPENT and the Man. — - ——— wo - oe = ets Par Tn = WITTE TTY an Tiree v pn i ili me : Gi Saat en iin: if ih i phi a= = re = cei] all : iW . —————————— | lia 1 ahd] me on | ine Ch I ow 4 i Ii i th SSL . ’ iyi inet, {i tan ae —ai i) gr A CHiLp was playing in a meadow, and by chance trod upon a Serpent. The Serpent, in the fury of his passion, turned up, and bit the child with his poisonous teeth, so that he died immediately. The father of the child, inspired with grief and revenge, took a weapon in his hand, and pursuing the Serpent, before he could get into his hole, struck at him, rand lopped off a piece of his tail. The next day, hoping by this stratagem to finish his revenge, he brought to the Serpent’s hole honey, meal, and salt, and desired him to come forth, protesting that he only sought a re- conciliation, on both sides. However, he was not’ ESOP’S FABLES. 265 able to decoy the Serpent forth, who only hissed from within to this purpose: In vain you attempt a recon- ciliation : for, as long as the memory of the dead child and the mangled tail subsists, it will be impos- sible for you and I to have any charity for each other. THE APPLICATION. The man who has injured you will never forgive you, is a Spanish proverb, and, after their dry way, a very good one. It seems odd, at first sight, because one would think the backwardness to forgive should be on the side of him who has received the injury ; but the truth of the maxim lies, with much more certainty, on the other side. The consciousness of having provoked the resentment of another will dwell so continually upon the mind of the aggressor, that he cannot rest till he has finished his work, and putit as much as possible out of his enemy's power to make any return upon him. Therefore, as the Serpent wisely observes, it is in vain for two people, who have palpably injured each other, ever to expect to live well together for the future. Mo-~ rality bids us to forgive our enemies, and the voice of reason confirms the same : but neither reason nor mo- rality bids us enter into a friendship with, or repose a confidence in, those who have injured us. We may resolve not to return ill usage ; but ought never to be forgiven, if, when we can prevent it, we put ourselves into our enemy’s hands. 266 LESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLVIL. The SwaLLow and other BIRDS. ET Rp ser ome refi a) i : = litt ah Za i i= ti: AH il di EL AH A FarMmunr was sowing his field with flax. The Swallow observed it ; and desired the other birds to assist her in picking the seed up, and destroying it ; telling them, that Flax was that pernicious material, of which the thread was composed which made the fowler’s nets, and by that means contributed to the ruin of so many innocent birds. But the poor Swallow, not having the good fortune to be regarded, the flax sprung up, and appeared above the ground. She then put them in mind once more of their impending danger, and wished them to pluck it up in the bud, before it went any farther. They still neglected her warnings ; and the flax grew up into the Sid stalk. She yet again desired them to attack it, for that it was not yet too late. But all that she could get was, to be ridiculed and despised, for a silly, pretending prophet. The Swallow, finding all her remonstrances availed nothing, was resolved to leave the society of such unthinking, careiess creatures, before it was too late. So, quitting the woods, she repaired to the ASOP’S FABLES. houses ; and forsaking the conversation of the birds, has ever since made her abode among the dwellings of men. THE APPLICATION, As men, we should always exercise so much huma~- nity as to endeavour the welfare of mankind, particu- arly of our acquaintance and relations; and if, by nothing farther, at least by our good advice. When we have done this, and if occasion required, continued to repeat it'a second or third time, we shall have ac~ quitted ourselves sufficiently from any imputation upon their miscarriages ; and having nothing more to do, but to separate curselves from them, that we may not be involved in their ruin, or be supposed to partake of their error. This is an excommunication which reason allows. For, as it would be cruel on the one side, to prosecute and hurt people for being mistaken; so on the other, it would be indiscreet, and over-complaisant, to keep them company through all their wrong notions, and act contrary to our opinion out of pure civility. \ Wn a er 268 AESOP’S FABLES. FE EE nt ESOP’S FABLES. 269 FABLE CLVIIL. The TRuMPETER taken PRISONER. | do they, whose devilish tongues gave birth to the Ws ST sedition, and excite the tumult. When wicked priests, ri “Em, HTN : mstead of preaching peace and charity, employ that engine of scandal, their tongue, to foment rebellions. whether they succeed in their designs or no, they ought to be severely punished for they have done what in them lay, to set folks together by the cars; they have blown the trumpet, and sounded the alarm; and, if thousands are not destroyed by the sword, it is none of their fault. : dBm sw A ————————— I TI GR FABLE CLIX. T%e [isrE and the ToRTOISE. Te aE I a: ig ae gg . "i - x a Hl Sli BoA NE = . BY fa - = = ~. mt HHL " t x iy x 3 : . Te. Jill iV me NY fall, - ea) Pay’ a Nellrd , 3 TOL 7 ¢ Ev = Fr 1 =~ hiss { 3 LF | > 3 i = So # | RRL HHH NS ne SES all Child Gnlilimn,... ee _ nent i HI ——(———— en —— A TrumPETER, being taken prisoner in a battle, begged hard for quarter, declaring his innocence, and protesting that he neither had, nor could kill any man, bearing no arms but only a trumpet, which he was obliged to sound at the word of command. Tor that reason, replied his enemies, we are determined not to spare you; for though you yourself never fight, yet, with that wicked instrument of yours, you blow up animosity between other people, and so become ; Mgt = Sgr 2 —- Jr the occasion of much bloodshed. bit in, de ee Ee es i it THE APPLICATICN. 3 : "m . . A man may be guilty of murder, who has never A Hage insulted a Tortoise upon account of his handled a sword or pulled a trigger, or lifted up his 3 slowness, and vainly boasted of her own great speed arm with any mischievous weapon. There is a little i 1n running. Let us make a match, replied the Tor- incendiary, called the tongue, which is more venomous toise; T'll run with you five miles for five pounds, than a poisoned arrow, and more killing than a two- : and the Fox yonder shall be the umpire of the race. edged sword. The moral of the fable, therefore, is this, | The Hare agreed ; and away they both started to- that if in any civil insurrection, the persons taken in J gether. But the Hare, by reason of her excceding arms against the governmentdeserve to die, much more swiftness, outran the Tortoise to such a degree, that she made a jest of the matter ; and finding herself a. little tired, squatted in a tuft of fern that grew by the ® \ | 4d A | ’ . t 1 RHE" i ’ 1 hy if Fey ) J § | i | : Hi i Iq $e Ca : 1 i : 1 iE i | + HH] } 1 iH : § F ! HE i § fags ! ul | TH | LP 1 iF 8 f iq y | 4 l | £ | I ’ | i 4 iH | i ¥ cy on TR FSAI. 3 + A 270 ESOP’S FABLES. way, and took a nap; thinking, that if the Tortoise went by, she could at any time fetch him up, with all the ease imaginable. In the meanwhile the Tor- toise came jogging on, with a slow but continued mo- tion ;: and the Hare out of a too great security and confidence of victory, oversleeping herself, the Tor- goise arrived at the end of the race first. THE APPLICATION. industry and application to business makeamends for the want of a quick and ready wit. Hence it 1s, that the victory is not always to the strong, nor the race to the swift.” Men of fine parts are apt to despise the drudgery of business; but, by affecting to show the superiority of their genius, upon many occasions, they run into too great an extreme the other way; and the administration of their affairs is ruined through idleness and neglect. What advantage has a man from the fertility of his invention and the vivacity of his ima- gination, unless his resolutions are executed with a suitable and uninterrupted rapidity ? In short, your men of wit and fire, as they are called, are oftentimes sots, slovens, and lazy fellows: they are generally proud and conceited to the last degree: and in the main, not the fittest persons for either conversation or business. Such is their vanity, they think the spright- liness of their humour inconsistent with a plain, sober way of thinking and speaking, and able to atone for all the little neglects of their business and persons. But the world will not be thus imposed upon; the man who would gain the esteem of others, and make his own fortune, must be one that carries his point effec- tually, and finishes his course without swerving or loitering. Men of dull parts and a slow apprehension, assisted by a continued diligence, are more likely to attain this, than your brisk retailers of wit, with their affected spleen and indolence. And if business be but well done, no matter whether it be done by the sallies of a refined wit, or the considering head of a plain, plodding man. sSOP’S FABLES. 271 FABLE CLX. The WoLF in SHEEP'S CLOTHING. FA dei rth hill hi » Lyle LA LE ig lgdaf 5 - A Wour clothing himself in the skin of a Sheep, and getting in among the flock, by this means took the opportunity to devour many of them. At last the Shepherd discovered him, and cunningly fastened a rope about his neck, tying him up to a tree which stood hard by. Some other she herds happening to pass that way, and observing i, he was about, drew near, and expressed their admira- tion at it. What, says one of them, Brother, do you make hanging of Sheep ? No, replies the other, but I make hanging of a Wolf whenever I catch him, though in the habit and garb of a Sheep. Then he showed them their mistake, and they applauded the justice of the execution. THE APPLICATION. This fable shows us, that no regard is to be had to the mere habit or outside of any person, but to undis- guised worth and intrinsic virtue. When we place our esteem upon the external garb, before we inform our- 272 ESOP’S FABLES. selves of the qualities which it covers, we may often mistake evil for good, and, instead of a sheep, take a wolf into our protection. T'herefore, however innocent or sanctified any one may appear, as to the vesture wherewith he is clothed, we muy actrashly, because we may be imposed upon, if from thence we take it for granted that he is inwardly as good and righteous as his outward robe would persuade vs he is, Men of judgment and penetration do not use to give an impli- cit credit to a particular habit, or a peculiar colour, but love to make a more exact scrutiny; for that he will come up to the character of an honest good kind of man, when stripped of his sheep's clothing, is but the more detestable for his intended 1mposture ; as the wolf was but the more obnoxious to the shepherd’s re- sentment, by wearing a habit so little suiting to his manners. Ts a FABLE CLXI. The WoLves and the Sucep. Nils... i re Tue Wolves and the Sheep had been a long time in a state of war together. At last a cessation of arms was proposed, in erder to a treaty of peace, ESOP’S FABLES. 73 and hostages were to be delivered on both sides for security. The Wolves proposed that the Sheep should give up their Dogs, on the one side, and that they would deliver up their young ones on the other. This proposal was agreed to; but na connor executed, than the young Wal- for want of their dams ~ opportunity to crv so falling upo their taithfu’ devoured * 27 ESOL Dy I ABLES. 4 The Y ot NG M aN and ns Can > FABLE CLXIL meee all il MW | Te AESOP’S FABLES. 275 outward appearance, was a Cat in her heart, she made her return to her old form again, that her manners and person might be agreeable to each other. THE APPLICATION. People, as to their manners and behaviour, take 2 strong bias from custom and education, but a much stronger from Nature. Her laws are so strong, that it 's in vain for us to go to oppose them: we way refine and improve, but can never totally alter her works. Upon this account it is, that we oftentimessee silly, awkward blockheads displaying their idiotism and foll¥ through all their ensigns of dignity ; for some natures are so coarse and rustic, that all the embroidery of a court cannot conceal them. Doubtless snch people were intended by nature for nothing above driving hogs to a fair,and laughing at the jokes of a country merry- andrew. Fortune has found them worthy of her favours, and given them a lift out of the mire, but they do not fail to give frequent indications of their true composi- tion, by a thousand little dirty actions. A fine equi- page and a great estate may raise a man to an exalted station, and procure a respect to his outward person; notwithstanding which, it may so happen, that every time he speaks and acts; he cantiot help plaviag the fool for the blood of hum. i WO > BE a lA a RSs - i | w i BG Se ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLXIII. The Ass eating THISTLES. pi——— FE Ag lf pi 3 : | FEEL | aly! ff ° E— tt aa Ax Ass was loaded with good provisions of seve- ral sorts, which, in time of harvest, he was car- rying into the field. for his master and the reapers to dine upon. By the way, he met with a fine large thistle, and being very hungry, began to mumble it; which, while he was doing, he entered into this re- fection: How many greedy epicures would think themselves happy, amidst such a variety of delicate viands as I now carry ! but to me, this bitter, prick- ly thistle is more savoury and relishing than the most exquisite and sumptuous banquet. THE APPLICATION. Happiness and misery, and oftentimes pleasure and pain, exist merely in our opinion, and are no more to be accounted for, than the diff; rence of tastes. That which is one man’s meat is another m proposition that ouzht to be allowe where the opinion is concerned, as well as in eating and drinking. Our senses must inform us whether a thing pleases or displeases, before we can declare our an’'s poison. is a din all particulars, jude ASOP'S FABLES. 277 ment of it; and that is to any fan good « wih i e S03 which his own understanding suggests to i 10 504 and not that which is agreeable to RRs} s he Sng oh itog . p 1 and as necessary as itis ra et as reasonable a 818 bi SO grant LNs are we onder at people for ing t how apt are we to w ; ; Shit or 4 or how can they think i on So8 i ha ow | at the differen stes is our of wondering at tasle 19 Lua occasions much uneasiness among But if we considered things Si va / g richtly, why should we be more concerned at i Aitfering from us in their way of thinking upan.eny subject whatever, than at their ikingchesse ners 4 , or both, of which we may happen i: : X ie \ he that expects all mankind should be o oii , more stupid and unreasonable than opinions of others, occ the generality of mankind. opinion, 1s mucl the Ass in the fable. eee FABLE CLXIV. The Horse and the loaded Ass. ~~ i i Ll es ml | : Jouring under a idle Horse and an Ass labouring un . wy ey were travelling the foul togeter} they both belonged to a country fellow, who Liga it on foot by them. The Ass, ready to faint unc a yt es adh ld —————— ll — ons TE BE AE es Ca 278 ESOP’S FABLES. heavy load, entreated the Horse to assist him, and lichten his burthen, by taking some of it upon his back. The Horse was ill-natured, and refused to do it: upon which the poor Ass tumbled down in the midst of the highway, and expired in an instant. The coun- tryman ungirted his pack-saddle, and tried several ways to relieve him, but all to no purpose : which, when he perceived, he took the whole burthen, and laid it upon the Horse, together with the skin of the dead Ass; so that the Horse by his moroseness in refusing to do a small kindness, justly brought upon. himself a great inconvenience. THE APPLICATION. Self-love is no such ill principle, if it werc but well and truly directed ; for it is impossible that any man should love himself to any purpose, who withdraws his assistance from his friends or the public. Every go- vernment is to be considered as a body politic; and every man who lives in it, as a member of that body. Now, to carry on the allegory, no member can thrive better, than when they all jointly unite their endeavours to assist and improve the whole. If the hand was to re- fuse its assistance in procuring food for the mouth, they must both starve and perish together. And when those, who are parties concerned in the same community, deny pagh pther, as the preservation of that community necesgafily regu their self-inieresied- ness, in that euse, Ts Hie i, and will have 2 quite contrary cifcol whit they intended. How many are so senseless asi think it bard that there should be any taxes in the nation ! whereas, were there to be none indeed; those very people would be undone unmediately. That little property they have would be presently plundered by foreign or domestic enemies ; and then they would be glad to contribute their quota, even without an act of parliament. The charges of sup- porting a government are necessary things, and easily supplied by a due and well-proportioned contribution. of Tg ASOP’S FABLES. 279 But, in the narrower and more confined view, to be ready to assist our friends upon all occasions, is not only good, as it is an act of humanity, but highly discreet, as it strengthens our interest, and gives us an opportunity of lightening the burthen of life. FABLE CLXV. The Bugs, the DrRoNES, and the Wasp. mm Re A, i . EA NN » hiya i i ger | in TS 7 NN 4 NY & a iS iN S a NN 2 %. HA XN \ 4 Urey, ! Zoho presi : E21 Vo ee SNORE 2% — 0 NY % : SAN 50) Ji ARN X ONT — aoa SUN IN 0 7 Ar EE SENN ANNE & A Parcer of Drones got into a hive among the Bees, and disputed the title with them, swearing that the honey and the combs were their goods. The Bees were obliged to go to law with them, and IN * ~~ be judge of the cause; one "th the nature of each, * to decide the con- *- gentlemen, " wdant), 280 ASOP'S FABLES. betwixt you instantly. They were both pleased with the offer, and returned him thanks. Why, then, says he, that it may appear who are the just proprietors of these honeycombs (for being both so nearly alike, as vou are, m colour, I must needs own the point is somewhat dubious) do you, addressing himself to the Becs, take one hive; you, speaking to the Droncs, another ; and go to making honey as fast as you can, that we may know, by the taste and colour of it, who has the best title to this in dispute. The Bees readily accepted the proposal, but the Drones would not stand to it. And so Judge Wasp, without any farther ceremony, declared in favour of the former. TUE APPLICATION, Nothing is so sure 3 sign of aman’s being, or at least thinking himself, in the wrong, as his refusing to come to a reference. And, how happy would it be for the public, if our judges ncw-a-days were empowered to dispatch causes in that easy, expedite way which the Wasp in the fable made use of. Bug, as it is, the impn- dent, idle, good-for-nothing drones of the nation, many times possess those favours and benefits, which should be the reward of men of parts and industry. Princes may easily he imposed upon, if they will take every little fellow’s word for the measure of his own merit. And it is indeed scarce possible that the encou- ragements of a court should always be dispensed to the most deserving men; butsuch are too modest to offer themselves. But it highly concerns anv eavernment. in the dispensation of its ¥ who behaved well ; - advantage be r- erted the ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLXVI. The Fox in the WELL. HIRT re a aig HR Baa = I} TIT - HIE | flies: itith il . : i i 7 } it A= i i = i = x. } i 7 S } : ; 5 i Lh fig He : Saline Tye te am = ig Zs, 3 S : NOSES rh S ee . _” : Wy I I \ EH caer Camas enti it an —— ra S——— de a shift, by sticking his claws into the sides, to keep his head above water. Soon after, a Wolf came and peeped over the brink; to whom the Fox applied himself very earnestly for assistance; entreating that he would help him to a rope, or something of that kind, which might favour his escape. The Wolf, moved with compassion at his misfortune, could not forbear ex- pressing his concern: Ah! poor Reynard, says he, I am sorry for you with all my heart ; how could ou possibly come into this melancholy condition ? Nay, »orythee, friend, replies the Fos, if you wish me well, do not stand pitying of we, but lend me some suceour as fast as you can: for pity is but cold comfort when one is up to the chin mn water, an within a hair's breadth of starving or drowning. THE APPLICATION. Pity, indeed, is of itself, but poor comfort at any time ; and, unless it produces something mere substan= 282 AESOP’S FABLES. tial, is rather impertinently troublesome, than any way agreeable. To stand bemoaning the misfortunes of our friends, without offering some. expedient to alleviate them, is only echoing to their grief, and putting them in mind that they are miserable. He is truly my friend, who with a ready presence of mind supports me; not he who condoles with me upon my ill success, and says he is sorry for my loss. In short, a favour or obligation is doubled by being well-timed ; and he 1s the best be- nefactor, who knows our necessities, and complies with our wishes, even before we ask him. FABLE CLXVII. The Fox and the WoLr. Te Lm) CER ot ; a Ai \ ul i te i oid ah. SE hy n ee ith i mn Re. 23% ER fr : ¥ 23 AY . 3 i Ra ipl a pif Cae see oe em EE HE TG § i t Fe i) : il 3 =. = fe, SO Se x > Led ; a, 2 HE or Co 4 ; Ra E17 1h & x 2 ; ; , NN NSE \ TARAS of a “ua = Hd 3 A ih ) \ a re + p he 7 3 3 - “ \ Tue Wolf having laid in store of provisions, kept close at home, and made much of himself. The Fox observed this, and thinking it something par- ticular, went to visit him, the better to inform him- self of the truth of the matter. The Wolf excused himself from seeing him, by pretending he was very much indisposed. All this did but confirm the Fox in his suspicions: so away he to a Shepherd, and made discovery of the Wolf, telling him he had ESOP’S FABLES. 283 nothing else to do but to come with a good weapon, and knock him on the head as he lay in his cave. The Shepherd followed his directions, and killed the Wolf. The wicked Fox enjoyed the cave and rovisions to himself, but enjoyed them not long, for the same Shepherd, passing afterwards by the same hole, and seeing the Fox there, dispatched him also. THE APPLICATION. This fable seems to be directed against the odious trade of informing. Not that giving information against criminals and enemies of the public, isin itself odious, for it is commendable; but the circumstances and man- ner of doing it, oftentimes make it a vile and detestable employment. He that accuses another, merely for the sake of the promised reward, or in hopes of getting his forfeited estate, or with any other such mercenary view, nay, even to save his own life, whatever he gets by the bargain, is sure to lose his reputation. For, indeed, the most innocent company is not safe with such aoneinit, nor the neighbourhood secure in which he lives. ‘A villain of this stamp, whose only end is getting, will as soon betray the innocent as the guilty: let him but know where there is a suspected person, and propose the reward, and he will scarce fail to work the suspicion up to high treason, or be ata loss to give sufficient proofs of it. We have no small comfort concerning this sort of people, when we consider how improbable it is, that they should thrive or prosper long in their ill-gotten possessions. For he that can betray another, for the sake of a little pelf, must be a man of such bad princi- ples, that it cannot be {or the interest of any community to suffer him to live long in it. Besides, he himself will not be contented with one single villainy ; and there is no fear but he will provoke justice to hurl down upon his head, at least, as great a calamity as he, by his ma- licious information, has brought upon another. 284 ZASOP’'S FABLES. FABLE CLXVIII. The Fro and the Mouse. RA. ———. sre REE THERE was once a great emulation between the Frog and the Mouse, which should be master of the fen, and war ensued upon it. But the crafty Mouse, lurking under the grass in ambuscade, made sudden sallies, and often surprised the enemy at a dis- advantage. The Fog, excelling in strength, and being more able to leap abroad, and take the field, challenged the Mouse to single combat. The Mouse accepts the challenge ; and each of them entered the lists, armed with the point of a bulrush, instead of a spear. A Kite, sailing in the air, beheld them afar off ; and while they were eagerly Lent upon each other, and pressing on to the eel, this fatal enemy descended souse upon them, and, with her crooked talons, car- ried off both the champions. THE APPLICATION. Nothing so much exposes a man’s weak side, and lays him so open to an enemy, as passion and malice, He whose attention is wholly tixed upon forming pro- jects of revenge, is ignorant of the mischiefs that may be hatching against him from soe other quarter, and, ASOP’S FABLES. 285 upon the attack, is uprovided with the means of de- fending or securing himself. How are the members of a commonwealth sometimes divided among themselves, and inspired with rancour and malice to the last degrees and often upon as great a trifle as that which was the subject matter of debate between the Froz and the Mouse : not for any real advantage, but merely who should get the better in the dispute? Butsuch animosi- ties, as insignificant and trifling as they may be among themselves, are yet of the last importance to their ene- mies, by giving them many fair opportunities of falling upon them, aud reducing them to misery and slavery, O Britons, when will ye be wise? when will ye throw away the ridiculous distinctions of party, those ends of bulrushes, and by a prudent union secure yourselves in a state of peace and prosperity? A state of which, if it were not for vour intolerably foolish and unnecessar divisions at home, all the powers upon earth could oy. deprive you. + : 1] i 4 3} HHT $11] a Hv ————— Hitt A Max had caught a Weasel, and was just going to kill it. The creature, to escape death, cried out in a pitiful manner, O, pray, do mat kill me; . x RR I ARR RE 286 ESOP’'S FABLES. for I am useful to you, and keep your house clear from Mice. Why, truly, says the man, if I thought you did it purely out of love to me, I should not only be inclined to pardon you, but think myself mightily obliged to you. But whereas you not only kill them, but yourself do the same mischief they would do, in eating and gnawing my victuals, I desire you would place your insignificant services to some other ac- count, and not to mine. Having said this, he took ’ , a= : the wicked vermin and strangled it immediately. THE APPLICATION. This fable is pointed at those who are apt to impute actions, which are done with a private view of their own, to their zeal for the public. This is the case of many a poor Grub-street writer, who perhaps is for no party but himself, and of no principle but what is subservient to his own interest, yet has the impudence to cry himselfup for a formal confessor of the cause that happens to flou- rish, a thorough honest man, who durst show himself in the worst of times. And with this politic view, there are a hundred thousand men in the nation, well attached to which party you please, who are serving the inter- est of this side only in their several capacities. By this way of working, they have a double advantage; first, as they procure to themselves a good number of constant customers of the same faction : and, secondly, as they are entitled to some remote share in the go- vernment whenever their faction succeeds. But such a pretence to favour is, in truth, little better than that of the Weasel. Both may chance to have done the ser- vices they boast of; but as they were principally in- tended for the promotion of their own private affairs, whatever they might occasionally produce, cannot be a sufficient ground for them to raise any merit upon. A highwayman may as well plead in his own behalf, that he never robbed any but those who were enemies to the government, and men of unsound principles.” But how absurd would such a pretence be! ESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLXX. Zsor and the IMPERTINENT FELLOW. he Ki Wh | iy [4 W I : WHA A a W !) SIN Ww SAAN hd A! Fillishs aifhy } i FL ’ a — Ih I (i gor Rl a gee Msopr’s master came home, one day, somewhat earlier than usual ; and, there happening to be no other slave in the house but ZEsop, he was ordered to get supper ready as fast as he could. = So away he runs to light a candle. in order to kindle his fire ; and the weather being warm, and it wanting a pretty deal of night, he went up and down to several houses be- fore he could speed. At last, however, he found what he wanted; and, being in haste, he made no scruple of returning directly over the market-place, which was his nearest way home. But as he went along, an impertinent fellow among the crowd caught himeoy the sleeve, and would fain have been arch upon him. O rare AEsop! says he, what occasion for a candle, old boy ? what, are you going to light the sun to bed? Let me alone, says Asop, I am looking for a man. And having said this, away he scuttled home as fast as he os . 288 ASOP’S FABLES, THE APPLICATION. It is not every one who calls himself a man, or bears the appearance of one, that truly deserves the name. If man be a reasonable creature, and none ought to be allowed for such, but those who fully come up to that definition, it is certain one would have occasion for more light than that of the sun, to find them out by. And it is plain that our old philosopher did not take the impertinent fellow in the fable for one: nor, indeed, should such be looked upon asreasonable creatures, who, with empty nonsense, which they call wit, unseasonably interrupt men of thought and business. When one is disposed to be merry, one may bear with any shallow, flashy buffoonery; as music that is not the most elegant will keep up the spirits when once they are raised: but when the mind happens to be in a serious cast, and is wholly intent upon any matter of importance, nothing is so offensive as a fool or a fiddie. Ha A Hager, being wursued hard by the hunt himself under the broad leaves of a shady ing Vine. When the hunters were gone by, and hed ASOP’S FABLES. given him over for lost, he, thinking himself very se- cure, began to crop and eat the leaves of the Vine. By this means the branches, being put into a rustling motion, drew the eyes of the hunters that way ; who, seeing the Vine stir, and fancying some wild beast had taken covert there, shot their arrows at a venture, and killed the Hart, who, before he expired, uttered his dying words to this purpose : Ah! I suffer justly for my ingratitude, who could not forbear doing an injury to the Vine, that so kindly concealed me in time of danger. > TIE APPLICATION, Ingratitude has always been esteemed the biggest of crimes, and what, as it were, comprehends all other vices withinit. Nor can we say, that this estimation is rashly or unadvisedly made; for he that is capable of injuring his benefactor, what will he scruple towards another ? If his conscience cannot be felt with the weight of an obligation added to it, much less will it have any influence where there is none. So that, upon the whole, we may conclude, that the wan who has been once guilty of ingratitude, will not stick at any other crime of an inferior nature. Since there are no human laws to punish this infamous prevailing mischief, it would be a great piece of human prndence to mark and observe this kind of criminals, in order to avoid all manner of communication with them. And if this were strictly put into execution, it could be looked upon a9 no other than a just and proper punishment. 290 ZASOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLXXIIL The DruNnkeN HusBaND, = Se Rm gr ry MR § rh 0h mn PT ror ay cm Tag Tp aeestatgt) 4 A ie ow (Eyes wii tgs tart] at : { g ! RY ; whi HTH i i } Ht in li 1) gig pout Le, =n. JR ats il: 1m : == nett at a —————— TS A CrrTaiy Woman had a drunken husband, whom, when she had endeavoured to reclaim several ways, to no purpose, she tried this stratagem, when he was brought home one night, dead drunk, as it seems he frequently used to be, she ordered him to be carried to a burial-place, and there laid in a vault, as if he had been dead indeed. Thus she left him, and went away, till she thought he might be come to himself, and grown sober agam. When she returned and knocked at the door of the vault, the man cried out, who's there 7 I am the person, says she, In a dismal tone, that waits upon the dead folks, and I am come to bring you some victuals. Ah good waiter, says he, let the victuals alone, and bring me a little drink, I beseech thee. The Woman hearing this, fell a tearing her hair, and beating her breast in a woeful manner. Unhappy wretch that I am, says she; this was the only way that I could think of to reform the beastly sot ; but instead of gaining my point, T am only convinced that this drunkenness 13 AESOP’S FABLES. 201 an incurable habit, which he intends to carry with him into the other world. THE APPLICATION. This fable is intended to show us the prevalence of custom ; and how, by using ourselves much to any evil practice, we may let it grow into such a habit as we may be never able to divest ourselves of. In any thing that we are sensible may be prejudicial to either our health or fortunes, we should take care not to let our inclinations run up into a habit : for though the former may be easily checked at our first setting out, and directed which way we please; yet the latter, like a headstrong, unruly horse in his full career, will have its own course, and we are hurried impetuously on, without the power of controlling it. As the passions of young men are wari, and their imaginations lively, it would be wrong to endeavour to tie them up from the pursuit of innocent pleasures. But those among them, that think at all, can never form a more useful and happy resolution, than not to suffer themselves to be drawn into a habit, even in indifferent and trifling things. He that keeps himself free from the slavery of habit, will always be at leisure to distinguish what is good for him, from that which is otherwise : and then there is no fear, but his cool, unbiassed judgment, will direct him to such pursuits as will be least hurtful, if not most useful to him, a SNR To i. or ARR. 1 1 ja ¢ : Be yw 2 Be 4 Ee i Sa AREA vt. AS Er — i mr AAA ESOP’'S FABLES. FABLE CLXXIIIL The BLACKAMOOR. : y LE CERTAIN man having bought a Blackamoor, was so simple as to think, that the colour of his skin was only dirt and filth, which he had contracted for want of due care under his former master. This fault he fancied might easily be removed. So he ordered the poor Black to be put into a tub, and was at a con= siderable charge in providing ashes, soap, and scrub- bing-brushes for the operation. To work they went, rubbing and scouring his skin all over, but to no manner of purpose . for when they had repeated their washings several times, and were grown quite weary, all they got by it was, that the wretched Blackamoor caught cold and diced. THE APPLICATION. Many pecple attempt impossibilities for want of con- sidering the nature of things aright. For, as palpable a blunder as this man in the fable committed, there are those who are guilty of as gieat mistakes ; especially when they endeavour, by fruitless cultivation, to raise ASOP’S FABLES. 293 graces from the mind or body, of which neither is ca~ pable. When any one went to meddle with arts and sciences, for which his genius was not well and properly adapted, the Greeks bad a proverb to turn it lato ridi= cule, by saying, He was no more fit for the business, than an Ass to play upon the harp. In short, when people learn to dance without shape and mien, to sing, or play on music without a voice or an ear, painting or poetry without a genius, it is attempting to wash the . Blackamoor white. They can never attain their end, but at the same time expose themselves to the jocese humours of those that behold them. Instead of a grace, they acquire a deformity ; as some boys at school, whom the master, by endeavouring to whip into a memory and bright parts, confirms stupid and invin- cible blockheads for ever. FABLE CLXXIV. The TRAVELLERS. - arp Te ET # men | wll mm aa [0 at i — = Tris IE == = Lb i > ki |” i - n Lili — of niet vl os 0 4 ga 88 Hy ntl ad bo eT nhl Wh Two men travelling upon the road, one of them saw an axe lying upon the ground, where somebody had been hewing timber : so, taking it up, says he, I ZESOP’S FABLES. have found an axe.. Do not say I, says the other, ‘but we have found ; for, as we are companions, we ought to share it betwixt us: but the first would not consent. However, they had not gone far, before the owner of the axe, hearing what was become of it, pur- sued them with a warrant: which, when the fellow that had it, perccived, Alas! says he to his compa- pion, we are undone. Nay, says the other, do not say we, but 7 am undone ; for, as you would not let me share the prize, neither will I share thedanger with you. THE APPLICATION. This fable hints to us the conveniency, if not the ne- eessity, of making our friendship firm and lasting. And 10 this purpose, nothing is so requisite as a strict ob- servance of the rules of honour and generosity ; for the very life and soul of friendship subsists upon mutual benevolence, upon conferring and receiving obligations on either hand. A stingy, reserved behaviour starves it; it ought to be open, free, and cominunicative, without the least tincture of suspicion or distrust. For jealousy, in friendship, is a certain indication of a false heart, though, in love, it may bea distinguishing mark of a true one. Nor is there any thing merely chime- rical or romantic in this notion : for, if we examine, we shall find, that reason will confirm the truth, and experience evince the utility of it. He that hopes for assistance, or accommodation in any exigéncy or time of misfortune, must lay in a provision for it by watch- ing the necessities of his acquaintance, and relieving the most deserving of them in their straits, by a ready and a willing contribution. By this means, gratitude, which is never wanting to an honest mind, will secure us a reasonable fund in reversion ; and all the favours we bestow will, like the tide of a river, in due season, flow back again upon us. ZESOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLXXV Sf ETH Pa fa , : jullie on te Hy h ge en RT ER Any aT TN ~., 1 =. = - = nF . . The FISHERMAN. ww -———— rs me +3, fg i Plenty Hig i Re oy un pp ——— y : < \ RE —g ww ——— 2 al A Cerrar Fisherman having laid his netsin the river, and encompassed the whole stream from one side to the other, took a long pole, and fell a beating the wa- ter, to make the fish strike into his nets. One of the neighbours that lived thereabout, seeing him do so, wondered what he meant ; and going up to him, Friend, says he, what are you doing here? Do you think it is to be suffered, that you shall stand splash- mg and dashing the water, and make it so muddy that it 3s not fit for use? Who do you think can live at this rate? He was going on in a great fury, when the other interrupted him, and replied, I do not much trouble myself how you are to live with my doing this, but I assure you, that I cannot live without 1t. THE APPLICATION. This fable is levelled at those who, as the proverb says, love to fish in troubled waters. There are some men of such execrable principles, that they do not care what mischief or what confusion they occasion in the world, provided they may but gratify some little selfish appetite. A thief will set a whole street on fire, tc get an opportunity of robbing one house; an ill-natured per- eM ATE mp A BO EL ehoiaerl ttt ah suns vee Smtr Ea“ —— -_— Sih «WY WL pn 296 AESOP'S FABLES. son will kindle the flame of discord among friends and neighbours, purely to satisfy his own malicious temper. And among the great ones, there are those, who, to suc- ceed in their ambitious designs, will make no scruple of involving their country in divisions and animosities at home, and sometimesin war and bloodshed abroad: pro- vided theydo butmaintain themselves in power, they care not what havoc and desolation they bring uponthe rest of mankind. They seeall around them confounded with fac- tion and party rage, without the least remorse or compas- sion. The widow's tears, the orphan’s cries, and the sighs of despairitself cannot affect them. Like the Fisherman in the fable, they boldly pursue their sport, and only re- ply,itmust be so, because we cannotlive,as we would do, withoutit. Whatbrutish, unsociable sentiments are these; such as a mere state of nature would scarce digest! Those that have any traces of equity in their breast, or any regard for the rights of mankind, should enter their protest against such notions as these, and oppose the practice of them with all their might and strength. FABLE CLXXVI. Mercury and the CARVER. ith = ii TE { A ~ & 1) isd B= A - 22 WE hae [=== > RE 3 ie fi i oki | 3 eto Ce a . Biz, a rs © ——————— i . = MERCURY having a mind to know how much he was esteemed among men, transformed himself ESOP’S FABLES. 297 into the shape of one of them; and going into 2 carver's shop, where little images were to be sold, he saw Jupiter, Juno, himself, and most of the other gods and goddesses. So, pretending that he wanted to buy, says he to the carver, What do you ask for this? and pointed to the figure of Jupiter. A groat says the other. And what for that? meaning Juno. IT must have something more for that, says he. Well, and What's the price of this; says Mercury, nodding his head at himself. Why, says the man, if you are in earnest, and will buy the other two, 1 will throw you that into the bargain. THE APPLICATION. Nothing makes a man so cheap and little in the eyes of discerning people, as his inquiring after his own worth, and wanting to know what value others set upon him. He that often busies himselfin stating the account of his own merit, will probably employ his thoughts upon a very barren subject: those who are full of them- selves, being generally the emptiest fellows. Some are sovain as to hunt for praise, and lay traps for commend- ation ; which, when they do, it is pity but they should meet with the same disappointment as Mercury in the fable. He that behaves himself as he should do, need not fear procuring a good share of respect, or raising'a fair, flourishing reputation. These are the inseparable attendants of those that do well, and in course follow the man that acquits himself handsomely. But then they should never be the end or motive of our pursuits: our principal aim should be the welfare and happiness of our country, our friends, and ourselves; and that should be directed by the rules of honour and virtue. As long as we do this, we need not be concerned what the world thinks of us: for a cariosity of that kimd does but prevent what it most desires to obtain. Fame, in this respect, is like a whimsical mistress: she flies from those who pursue her most, and follows such a8 show the least regard to her. ob 298 AZSOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLXXVII. The Tuieves and the Cock. : : ER — ——— EE Te———— 90 ian i all — 7 7: 1 : aiid t Ee ati Tt] + 3 hil y hse il git A Nit a house with a design to rob it, when they were got in, found nothing worth taking, but a cock! so they took and carried him off. But as they were about to kill him, he begged hard for his life, putting them in mind, how useful he was to mankind by crowing and calling them up by times to their work. You villain, replied they, it is for that very reason we will wring your neck off; for you alarm and keep people waking, so that we cannot rob in quiet for you. THE APPLICATION. The same thing which recommends us to the esteem of good people, will make those that are bad have but an ill opinion of us. Tt is in vain for innocent men, under oppression, to complain to those who are the oc- casion of it; all they can urge will but make against them, and even their very innocence, though they should say nothing, would render them sufficiently sus- pected. ‘The advice, therefore, that this fable brings along with it, is to inform us, that there is no trusting, nor any hopes of living well with wicked, unjust men. When vice flourishes and is in power, were it possible ASOP’S FABLES, for a good man to live quietly in the neighbourhood of it, and preserve his integrity, it might be sometimes convenient for him to do so, rather than quarrel with, and provoke it against him. But as it is certain that rogues are irreconcileable enemies to men of worth, if the latter would be secure, they must take a method to free themselves from the power and society of the former. FABLE CLXXVIIL. The Fox and the Ass. 9 a g——- 5% in | gE = i Mh fe A A Shoah 5 aaah: ' sn, a Deby ) £78 TT ag Athat 1H RNCRITEL —- iss a" rippin Lin ae smh 1 AH ee Tantit Ax Ass finding a Lion’s skin, disguised himself with it, and ranged about the forest, putting all the beasts that saw him into a bodily fear. After he had diverted himself thus for some time, he met a Fox: and being desirous to fright him too, as well as the rest, he leapt at him with some fierceness, and en- deavoured to imitate the roaring of the Lio>. Your humble servant, says the Fox, if you had held your tongue, I might have taken you for a Lion, as others did: but now you bray, I know who you are. THE APPLICATION. This is so trite and common a subject, that there is scarce any one who is ignorant of it. A man is known by his words, as a tree is by the. fruit; and if we would be apprized of the nature and qualities of any one, let 300 AESOP’S FABLES. him but discourse, and he himself will speak them to us, better than another can describe them. We may therefore perceive from this fable, how proper it is for those to hold their tongues, who would not discover the shallowness of their understandings. Asses and Owls, noseen, themselves betray, | When these attempt to hoot, or those to bray. Garth. The deepest rivers are most silent; the greatest noise is ever found where there is the least depth of water. And it is a true observation, that those who are the weakest in understanding, and most slow of apprehen- sion, are generally the strongest in opinion, and most precipitate in uttering their crude concepiions. When, with a secret awe, we regard the grave dress and im- portant mien, of some senatorian person, whom we have chanced to meet in a coffee-house, what a speaker do we often think he must be before we hear him speak! His air breathes the seriousness of a privy counsellor, and his erect aspect the dignity of an eminent patriot: but be utters himself, and undeceives us; he brays, and tells the whole company what he is. e HEN and the SwaLLow. = — ITI F = i CRE] | 2 RITTHOR Ic i Ege) | LY Be mE a= » i A Hes finding some Serpent's eggs in a dung- hill, sat upon them, with a design to hatch them. ESOP’S FABLES. 301 A Swallow perceiving it, flew towards her, and with some warmth and passion: Are you mad, says she, to sit hovering over a brood of such pernicious crea- tures as you do? Be assured, the moment you brin them to light, you are the first they will attack, od wreak their venomous spite upon. THE APPLICATION. This fable is only to put us in mind, once mere, of what we have already, more than once, met with in the course of these fables, that we should never bave any thing to do with ill mea: no, net even to do them kind- nesses. Men of ill principles are a generation of vi- pers, that ought to be erushed under our feet, and de- stroyed the first opportunity. Every rogue should be looked upon by honest men as a poisonous serpent. It is not sufficient that they avoid and keep clear of him; but if they have any value for their own safety, they should prosecute and maul him, and render him inca- pable of ever doing mischief. The man who is occa- sionally, or by accident, one’s enemy, may be mollified by kindness, and reclaimed by good usage: sueh a be- haviour, reason and morality both expect from us,— But we should ever resolve, if not to suppress, at least to have no dealings with those whose blood is tinctured with hereditary, habitual villany, and their nature lea vened with evil to such a degree, as to be incapable of a reformation. RE i Ln quite mw ER AR a ARR SNR i fo il iB pe ee a a EE _—-: a a nd . a on eT 302 ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLXXX. The Doc invited fo SuppER. Fay -e 9 gk TE iid A TTA " Me ee sy ’ wo rs i gaia se vi os — FREE TT zh a : b Hi i i; ; Hi ; J iH A GuxtrLEMAN having invited an exraordinacy friend to sup with him, ordered a handsome en- tertainment to be prepared. His Dog, observing this, thought with himself, that now would be a Pe opportunity for him to invite another Dog, a iend of his, to partake of the good cheer.’ Ac- cordingly, he did so; and the strange Dog was conducted into the kitchen, where he saw mighty preparations going forward. Thought he to him- self, this is rare! I shall ll my belly charmingly by and by, with some of these dainties! I'll eat enough to last me a week: Oh, how nicel and deliciously shall I feed! While he st and thought thus with himself, his tail wagged and his chops watered exceedingly ; and this drew the ob- servation of the cook towards him; who, sceing a strange cur with his eyes intent upon the victuals, stole softly behind him, and, taking him up by the two hind legs, threw him out of a window into the ASOP’S FABLES. street. ‘The hard stones gave him a very severe reception, and he was almost stunned with the fall ; but recovering himself, he ran yelping and cryin half the length of a street; the noise of whic brought several other dogs about him; who, know- ing of the invitation, began to inquire how he had fared. O, says he, admirably well; I never was better entertained in my life: but, in troth, we drank 2 little too hard; for my part, I was so overtaken, that I scarce know which way I got out of the house. THE APPLICATION. There is no depending upon a second-nand interest; unless we know ourselves to be well with the prizcipal, and are assured of his favour and protection, we stand but upon a slippery foundation. They are strangers to the world, who are so vain as to think they can be well with any one by proxy; they may, by this means, be cajoled, bubbled, and imposed upon, but are under great uncertainty as te gaining their point, and may proba- bly be treated with scorn and derision in theend. Yet there are not wanting, among the several species of fops, silly people of this sort, who pride themselves in an imaginary happivess, from being in the good graces of a great man’s friends friend. Alas! the great men themselves are but too apt to deceive and fail in mak- ing good their promises; how then can we expect any good from those who do but promise and vow in their names? To place a confidence in such sparks, is indeed so false a reliance, that we should be ashamed to be detected in it; and, like the cur in the fable, rather own we had been well treated, than let the world see how justly we had been punished for our ridiculous credulity. 304 ESOP’'S FABLES. FABLE CLXXXIL JUPITER and the HERnsmaw. Lif ii bi : ili | l wl Je ww "Y En = —_— ju <<: 5 \ i % Z F 3 = = 2 fin tr h ; A 3 Ah if in 1 a, g i A HEerpsMAN, missing a young heifer that be- longed to his herd, went up and down the forest to seek it. And having walked a great deal of ground to no purpose, he fell a praying to Jupiter for relief; promismg to sacrifice a kid to him, if he would help him to a discovery of the thief. After this, he went on a little farther, and came near a prose of oaks, where he found the carcase of his eifer, and a lion grumbling over it and feeding upon it. The sight almost scared him out of his wits ; so down he fell upon his knees once more, and addressing himself to Jupiter; O Jupiter ! says he, 1 promised thee a kid to show me the thief, but now I promise thee a bull, if thou wilt be so mer- ciful as to deliver me out of his clutches. THE APPLICATION. How ignorant and stupid are some people, who form their notions of the Supreme Being from their own poor shallow conceptions; and then, like froward children with their nurses, think it consistent with infinite wis- dom and unerring justice to comply with all their whimsical petitions. Let men but live as justly as they el = i [| 4 % il hil = I" il pl eens ik EMM Games evverres sungrruuti A] : = sam lis "ZAZSOP’S FABLES. 305 can, and just Providence will give them what they ought to have. Of all the involuntary sins which men com- mit, scarce any are more frequent, than that of their praying absurdly and improperly, as well as unseason~ ably, when their time mighthave been employed somuch better. The many private collections sold up and down the nation, do not a little contribute to this injudicious practice; which is the more to be condemned, in that we have so incomparable a public liturgy; one single address whereof (except the Lord’s prayer) may be pro- nounced to be the best that ever was compiled; and alone preferable to all the various manuals of occasion- al devotion, which are vended by hawkers and pedlars about our streets. It is as follows: “ Almighty God, the fountain of all wisdom, who knowest our necessities before we ask, and our igno= rance in asking; we beseech thee to have compassion upon cur infirmities ; and those things which for our unworthiness we dare not, and for our blindness we cannot ask, vouchsafe to give us, for the worthiness of thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord.” FABLE CLXXXII. 7%e Ficarine Cocks. Lim—====lll Two Cocks were fighting for the sovereignty of - a AE I rar ” od Ltn i I gt vo Ee 3 Bs 5 ot won . - . tide cop 5B PISS, PH pt 306 ESOP’S FABLES. the “dunghill. And one of them having got the better of the other, he that was vanquished crept into a hole, and hid himself for some time; but the victor flew up to an eminent place, clapt his wings and crowed out Victory. An Eagle, who was watching for his prey near the place, saw him, and making a stoop, trussed him in his talons, and car- vied him off. The cock that had been beaten, per- ceiving this, soon quitted his hole, and, shaking off all remembrance of his late disgrace, gallanted the hens with all the intrepidity imaginable. THE APPLICATION. This fable shows the impropriety and inconvenience ef running into extremes. Much of our happiness de- pends upon keeping an even balance in our words and actions; in not suffering the scale of our reason to mount us too high in time of prosperity, nor to sink us too low with the weight of adverse fortune. It is a question, Which shows people in the most contemptible light, exulting immoderately upon a fresh accession of good, or being too abjectly cast down at the sudden approach of evil? We are apt to form our notions of the man from the stability of his temper, in this respect, and account him a brave or a wise man, according to the proportion of equanimity which he exerts upon any change of his condition. Bat though our reputation were no ways concerned in the case, and a man were not to be reckoned a coxcomb for be- ing elated, or a coward for being dejected with the vi- cissitudes of life, yet the tine regard of our own pri- vate satisfaction should incline us to play the philoso- pher, and learn to keep our spirits calm and even; be- cause life would be a labyrinth of perplexities without it. One sudden turn would come so thick upon the back of another, that we should be bewildered in the quick succession of joys and terrors, without having so auch as a quiet moment to ourselves. AZSOP’S FABLES. 307 OS nme Abate; sly Sig . a Hh H i s : { } . = = . . fr 4 - y 1 } §4) | A IH) ¢ aright Pi 1 yl * = i = rg 4 / , 3 } p t = ” . ¥ 4 $f : = = : 3 1 eld = :: = EE ae - . pbaldy . . . = 3 aa ps : i t oF i" So 1 it Hani bi qf - ta 4 out’ t dy f oa pial aie ‘ att i ‘4 3 Be. A Tet Ing yon a ; Riis i Be fo ign Ritisg Ribas amrassremenemmes 2" —— — Two young Men went into a Cook’s shop, under pretence of buying meat ; and while the Cook’s back was turned, one of them snatched up a piece of beef, and gave it to his companion, who presently clapt it under his cloak. The Cook, turning about again, and missing his beef, began to charge them with it; upon which he that first took it swore bitterly he had none of it. He that had it swore as heartily that he had taken up none of his meat Why, look ye, gentlemen, says the Cook, I see your equivocation ; and though I can- not tell which of you has taken my meat, I am sure be- tween you both, there is a thief, and a couple of rascals, THE APPLICATION. An honest man’s word is as good as his oath; and 80 is a rogue’s 100; for he that will cheat and lye, why should he scruple to forswear himself? Is the latter more criminal than either of the former? An honest man needs no oath to oblige him; and a rogue only deceives you the more certainly by it; because you think you have tied him up, and he is sure you have not. In truth, it is not easy with the eye of reason to / discern that there is any good in swearing at all. We chs Mp ns Swen) on rte heb EY nee aM Al IO OYE PA, 5 515 BRA BO INC SS I NE. o ahaa > PAYAL apg. ge Ro 308 HESOP’S FABLES. need not scruple to take an hopest man’s bare asseve- ration; and we shall do wrong if we believe a rogue, though he swears by the most solemn oaths that can be invented. ‘Thereare, besides, asort of people who are rogues, and yet donot know that they .are such ; who, when they have taken an oath, make a scruple of break- ing it; but rack their invention to evade it by some equivocation or other ; by which, if they can but satisfy their acquaintance, and serve their own scheme, they think all is well, and never once consider the black and heinous guilt which must attend such a behaviour. They solemnly call the Supreme Being to witness; to what? Toa sham,an evasion,alye. Thustheseunthink- ing, prevaricating wretches, at the same time that they believe there is a God, act as if there were none; or, what is worse, dare affront him in the highest degree. They, who by swearing would clear themselves of a crime of which they are really guilty, need not be at much pains about wording their oath ; for, express them- selves how they will, they are sure to be forsworn. FABLE CLXXXIV. The Jackpaw and the SHEEP. STII de —— mn ——; se ——— A Jackpaw sat chattering upon the back of a sheep. Peace, you noisy thing, says the sheep; ESOP’S FABLES. if ¥ were a dog, you durst not serve me so. That is trueenough, replies the Jackdaw, I know very well who ¥ have to do with ; I never meddle with the surly and revengeful: but I love to plague such poor helpless creatures as you are that cannot do me any harm again. THE APPLICATION. Many people in the world are of the temper of this Jackdaw in the fable, who do mischief for mischief’s sake ; and, at the same tine, are never so well pleased as when they do it to the innocent and undeserving, They love themselves too well to offer an injury to one of their own malicious principles, for fear of a suitable return ; but desire no better grounds, at any time, for being hurtful than the prospect of being so with ime punity. How inconsistent are such proceedings as these with honour and generosity! How opposite to the character of a great and good man! and how di= rectly contrary to the rules prescribed for the behaviour of noble and heroic spirits. FABLE CLXXXV. The PLoucuman and ForRTUNE. { mmmn u ETRE dre wm meat ET FRB AREER 253 - ly, 3 EE Hy hn IN TT ET ; ee Lv; ii . == - fli hea mz H i i ¥ fe Ww pal f . in, { has ! $i i iS fim, { Dba Ww nis i 1 ii i (WH i to, ! See . : v Hint = ty Si \ re. A i A tt ntl Tae Ploughman, as he was plowing the ground, wr 87 I A Bt AIA J J rv ———— ES wnt i oP RT ne ah z 310 ESOP’S FABLES. found a treasure. Transported with joy, he. im- mediately began to return thanks to the ground, which had been so liberal and kind to him. Fortune observed what he did, and could not forbear disco- vering her resentment of it. She instantly appeared to him, and, You fool, says she, what a blockhead are you to lie thanking the ground thus, and take no no- tice of me! You sot, you; if you had lost such a trea- sure, instead of finding it, I should have been the first you would have laid the blame upon. THE APPLICATION. If bur affairs succeed and go well, we ought to let them have the credit of it, to whose interest itis chiefly owing, and whom upon any miscarriage or ill manage- ment, we should have found fault with. That just rule of equity, to do as we would be done unto, should, as near as we can, be observed in every action of our lives. But vanity and peevishness dispose us too often to break it ; one makes us ascribe that to our own good address, which perhaps is owing to some accident; the other puts us upon charging Fortune, or somebody be- sides ourselves, with that ill success, for which we may probably be indebted to our cwn stupidity and negli- gence only. W hat titles of honour, what stations of dignity, what places of profit in church and state, are now and then possessed by dull useless wretches! who never once dreamt that they were obliged to Fortune alone for their happiness in obtaining them! Yet, if the case were quite otherwise, and these creatures left Jow and undistinguished as their own merit, it is ten to one but they would have cursed their stars, fretted at their ill luck, and stormed at the barbarous treatment. of their capricious fortune. ZSOP’S FABLES. FABLE CLXXXVIL of one, but disregarded and slighted the oth er. On fay she chanced to be Sarrnel by the hunters, and a Jmuéh ado to get off. However, she did not for- get her favourite young one, which she took up in her ans, that it might be the more secure : the other, which 5 8 neglected, by natural instinct, leapt upon her back a soaway they scampered together. But it unluckily ell out, that the dam, in her precipitate flight, blinded with haste, dashed her favourite's fond against a stone and killed it. The hated one, clinging close to her rough back, escaped all the danger of the pursuit. an THE APPLICATION. 1s fable is designed to expose the foll yme parents, who, by indulging A heir Wo Hie ehildrer, spoil and ruin them ; while those of whom oy ave been the least fond, have done very well: hi child that knows it can command its parent's tections, will hardly be brought to know how to obey. e fondness of indiscreet parents to favourite children 313 JESOP’S FABLES. ~ is blind as love itself; they arg sO far from seeing any blemishes or imperfections in them, that their very deformity is beauty, and all their ugly tricks graces. Thus, without being ever checked and corrected for theirfaults, but rather applauded and caressed for them, when they come abroad upon the theatre of the world, what rock will they not split upon? While the child, whois so happy as to escape these very tender regards, these pernicious indulgencies, 1s obliged to be good and honest in its own defence. The parent looks upon it with an eye clear from the mists of fondness. He has no regard to its dislike or approbation; but, for his own credit, puts it into such a way of education as reason dictates ; and forces it to be accomplished, as its capa- city will admit. EE FAB. CLXXXVIIL. The SHEPHERD {turned MERCHANT. (i — = “alia {3 we 7 gE te bls itt” ef == = Hn Fa ~~ “Whi Li io iy i NH ee, Ne SENS A ire) lin E sid UE: il | = faba wo — a ———————————— eo ———_— a A Suspmerp, that kept his sheep near the sea, one clear summer's day, drove them close to the shore, and sat down upen a piece of a rock, to enjoy the cool breeze that came from the water. The green element appearcd calm and smooth; and Thetis, with: her train of smiling beautiful nymphs, see A A AESOP’S FABLES. 313 to dance upon the floating surface of the decp. The shepherd's heart thrilled with secret pleasure, and he began to wish for the life of a merchant. O how happy, says he, should I be, to plough this liquid plain, in a pretty tight vessel of my own: and to visit the remote parts of the world, instead of sitting idly here, to look upon a parcel of senseless sheep, while they are grazing ! Then what ample returns should I make m the way of traffick, and what a short and certain path would this be to riches and honour! In short, this thought was improved into a resolution ; awa he posted with all expedition, sold his flock, and all that he had ; then he bought a bark, and fitted it out for a voyage ; he loaded it with a cargo of dates, and set sail for a mart that was held upon the coast of Asia, five hundred leagues off. He had not long been at sea, before the wind began to blow tempestuously, and the waves to rage and swell ; the violence of the weather increased upon him. his ship was in danger of sinking, and he was obliged to lighten her, by throwing all his dates overboard : after this, his vessel was driven upon a rock near the shore, and split to pieces; he himself hardly escaping with life. Poor, and destitute of subsistence, he applied himself to the man who had bought his flock, and was admitted to tend it as a hireling. He sat in the same place as before, and the ocean again looked calm and smooth. Ah ! says he, deceitful, tempting element, in vain you try to engage me a second time ; my misfortunes have left me too poor to be again deluded the same way ; and experience has made me so wise as to resolve, whatever my condition may be, never to trust thy faithless bosom more. : THE APPLICATION. Bought wit is the best ; and the more variety of dis- appointments we meet with, the greater will be our ex- Pr 314 ESOP’S FABLES. perience, and the better we shall be qualified to rub through the world. Mankind has a strange propensity for things that are new and untried : and so strong a bias inclines them to shifting and changing, that every one disrelishes his own profession, and wishes he had been of some other employment. The young academic, designed to the most grave of all professions, hates to think of his peculiar habit, of that formal, reserved de- portment by which he is to separate himself from what he counts the pleasure of the world, and bid adieu to that irregularity which youth so much delights in. He longs foracommission in thearmy, that he may be fashionably licentious, and indulge himself unquestioned in the wanton sallies of a brisk youthful appetite. In the mean time, the old soldier, harassed out with laborious cam- paigns abroad, and vexed with the slow returns of his half-pay at home, repines at the happy condition of the ecclesiastic, fattening in ease and plenty, arid sleeping vnmolested in one of the upper stalls of a cathedral. With remorse he calls to mind his former perverseness in quitting a college life, and defeating the purpose of his relations, who had purchased the next reversion of a fat benefice for him. He shakes his head, and reflects, that, if it had not been for his folly, instead of aching limbs, and an empty purse, he might have enjoyed as much leisure and luxury as any priest in the land. Thus, sometimes with, sometimes without, reason, we are disgusted at our station, and even those who are embarked in another way ; which, however it may seem to be a misfortune entailed upon us, yet carries this advantage with it, that, as we are almost sure of being disappointed by a change, we are as certain likewise of gaining some experience by the bargain, and being wiser for the future. ASOP’S FABLES. 315 FAB. CLXXXVIII. The Youne Man and the Lion. — - - a. — y EES rua EE . p21 SR igi, : iit Ree SEE i mn. i grad HT W x i == =H E . ZT ar, NS |S Hh AT gt | | n i 1h |e f i fi oi Ltr ll fA Bre escent e i” an THERE was a certain old man, who was lord of a very great estate; and had only one child, a son, of whom he was exceedingly tender and fond ; he was likewise one very apt to be influenced by omens, dreams and prognostics. The young Man, his son, was mightily addicted to hunting, and used to be up early every morning to follow the chase. But the fa- ther, happening to dream, one night, that his son was killed by a Lion, took it so to heart, that he would not suffer him to go into the forest any more. He built a fine castle for his reception, in which he kept him close confined, lest he should step out privately a hunting, and meet his fate. Yet, as this was purely the effect of his love and fondness for him, he stu- died to make his confinement as agreeable to him as possible ; and, in order to it, furnished the castle with a variety of fine pictures, in which were all sorts of wild beasts, such as the son used to take a delight in hunting ; and, among the rest, the portrait of a Lion. This the young man viewed one day more attentively | than ordinary ; and, being vexed in his mind at the Pp2 RR - 2" = ke — Sr ———— TI TTR 2 316 AESOP'S FABLES. unreasonable confinement which his father’s dream had occasioned, he broke out into a violent passion, and looking sternly at the Lion, Thou cruel savage, says he, it is to thy grim and terrible form that I owemy imprisonment, if 1 had a sword in my hand, I would thus run it through thy heart. Saying this, he struck his fist at the Lion’s breast, and unfortunately tore hishand with a point of a nail which stuck in the wainscot, and was hid under the canvas. The wound festered, and turned to a gangrene ; this threw the young man into a fever, and he died. So that the father’s dream was fulfilled by the very caution that he took to prevent it, “HE APPLICATION. This fable, though it may seem to favour and encou- rage the notion of dreams, and such fancied discoveries of future eveuts, is however intended to ridicule and ex- plode them. What can be more absurd than the prac- tice of those ciedulous fools, who, having faith enough to Lelieve the veracity of oracles, had the impudence or stupidity to try to defeat them afterwards ? This was making a god with one hand, and throwing him away with the other. First they ask the Almighty what he intends to do. When he has told them, they believe and tremble, but are resolved to disappoint him if they can : nay, they think they can, and set about it ac- cordingly. These low, inconsistent notions of God, gave the first birth to atheism: and were they not too common in the world still, that pernicious principle, if there be any such principle in reality, would be either entirely rooted out, or grow sO thin, as not to hinder the increase of virtue. When the Deity, which the generality of the world acknowledge, is used as if he were a deity of irresolution, instability, mutability, and passion, men of any discernment immediately re- nounce such a deity as that; and, for want of due consideration, remain atheists. It being indeed less absurd of the two, not to believe a ~upreine Being at all, than to believe he is subject to the frailties of us wretched mortals, and governed by whim and fancy. LSOP’S FABLES. 317 FABLE CLXXXIX. The Hen and the Fox. ROD GE Ag: 3 iting Th fl i bi ho Tro 5 fr AE vr Rec ar TATE es A Fox, having crept into an out-house, looked up and down, seekin what he might devour : and at last spied a Hen sitting upon the uppermost perch, so high, that he could by no means come at her. He then had recourse to his old stratagem : Dear cousin, says he, addressing himself to the Hen, how do youdo? I heard that you were ill, and kept within; at which I was so concerned, that I could not rest till I came to - see you. Pray howis it with you now? let me feel your pulse a little ; indeed you do not look well at all. He was running on after this impudent fulsome manner, when the Hen answered him from the roost, Truly, cousin Reynard, you are in the right on’t; I never was in more pain in my life; I must beg your pardon for being so free as to tcll you, that I sce no company ; and you must excuse me too for not coming down to Ion ; for, to say the truth, my condition is such, that fear I should catch my death if I should do it. THE APPLICATION. There are some people in the world, whose address and conversation are so impertinent, so shocking, and 318 AZSOP’S FABLES. disagrecable, that it is doing penance, and suffering a kind of bodily pain to be in their company. When these familiar fools, with their repeated officiousness, ask us how we do, no wonder if we are really sick ; for how can we be well when they are near us? they either mean nothing, and are vain, silly impertinents, whom we abhor; or cover some evil purpose under a disguise of nauseous palpable flattery, and therefore are to be treated with reserve and caution. A man who sees through flattery, is indeed free from the danger of it. But he should not be satisfied with that. If he is a public-spirited man, he ought to discountenance and expose the person that practises it, to prevent it from flourishing abroad, and hurting those who may not be weary enough to discern, or staunch enough to resist its attacks. The men of flattery, as they are, in some degree or other, a common mischief, ought to be treated as common enemies : and as it is generally their de- sign to delude and impose upon others, if we can be pefore-hand with, and disappoint them, we shall act, if not generously, yet, however, fairly and discreetly. FABLE CXC. The Man and the GNar. rE a A— ——— ———] AM aay Rs FE | TOI ee CN ial ahi” SR LSS «UL 4 = Hg > Xo RL ee + fl rs Pt j= Pdi 5 - is 3 <. “g li . - — = aa — ‘ ip lat RE — mT LAR s a clownish fellow was sitting on a bank, a Gnat settled upon his leg, and stung it. He clapped his i . ZESOP’S FABLES. 319 hand with great vehemence upon the place, with in- tention to kill the Gnat ; but the little nimble insect, skipping lightly between his fingers, escaped ; and. every time he struck, he gave himself a smart blow upon the leg, without being in the least able to touch the Gnat. This provoked him very much, so that in the height of his passion, he fell to mvoking Hercules. O mighty Hercules ! says he, since nothing can with- stand thy power, aid me, I beseech thee, against this pernicious Gnat, and with thy invincible strength, subdue him, in compassion to me, miserable creature, who am tormented with his venomous sting. THE APPLICATION, Many people, like the clown in the fable, are apt to invoke the Almighty upon every little trifling accident that befals them. Not in an habitual, unmeaning ex- clamation, such as children and childish folks use, but in a serious, deliberate meditation, conceived in a fit of rapture, and delivered from the closet or cabinet, in the usual season of devotion. How many things are prayed for with much earnestness, which, if we were to inquire into them, are mere vanities, and such as we ought to be ashamed of having ? Not that the Su- preme Being, who is all-knowing and present every where, can be supposed to be ignorant of every little thought of our souls, or unable to comply with the mul- tiplicity of our wishes ; but it is contrary to his exalted nature to condescend to our paltry, selfish schemes, or to grant any one of those petitions, which we ourselves, if we considered, should be ashamed to put up. ASOP’S FABLES. FABLE CXCI. The DEER and the Lion. a Crs a go 2 ———— ——— —— a: i A DEER being hard pursued by the hounds, found a cave, into which he rushed for security. But he was no sooner got in, than he saw himself in the Jae of a Lion, who lay couched at the farther end of the cave, and sprung upon him in an instant. Being at the point of death, he complained thus: Unhappy creature that T am ! I entered this cave to escape the pursuit of men and dogs, and am fallen into the jaws of the most cruel and rapacious of all wild beasts. THE APPLICATION. ond Some are so unfortunate, as to be ever running into troubles and difficulties ; their ill luck seems to ride them through a series of misfortunes, and, in the mean time, like stumbling horses, the oftener they are spurred the more they flounce along in the dirt, and the more trips they make. But, as much of this may be attributed to fear and hurry, which, wherever they take place, in- dispose and hinder us from acquitting ourselves as we should do; it is therefore highly necessary for such as would be thought to behave themselves like men, never to let fear have any share in their words or actions. This passion blinds us from discerning our true interest : ASOP’S FABLES. 321 it no sooner points out an evil to us, but it throws us into the utmost confusion, in our manner and method of flying from it. ~ We start from the present mischief be fore we have pitched upon a place of refuge; and, in the hurry, fall into a thousand worse accidents, which we have not time to observe and avoid. But all this is far below the character of a great and a good man. He dreads nothing more than shame; noris ashamed of any | thing so much as fear. Not all the terrors of this, or any other world can blind the eyes of his reason, or disarm his understanding. Honesty dictates to his conscience, and his conscience is the rule of his actions. And in this happy situation of his mind; though the world were to be crushed, and tumble in pieces about his ears, he would be found without surprise amidst the ruins of it. Itis peculiar to knaves or fools to beflurried, through a sense of their own guilt or shame ; and be always labouring underjealousies, doubts, distrusts,and disappointments. FABLE CXCII. The GarpeneRr and his Dog. : Fait ji | i J CPI 3 { Li i IR id par = H = E =z = : “yf ¥ = = : : = 0h : Yi if Bs = SL ii A Garpenrr’s Dog, frisking about the brink of a well in the garden, happened to fall into it. The ‘Gardener very readily ran to his assistance; but 322 ASOP’'S FABLES. as he was endeavouring to help him out, the cur bit him by the hand. The man took this ungrateful treatment so unkindly, that he left him to Tin for himself, with this expostulation ; Wicked wretch, quoth he, are you so unreasonable as to injure the hand that comes to save your life! the hand of me, our master, who have hitherto fed and taken care of you! Die, as you deserve ; for so mischievous and ill-natured a creature is not fit to live. THE APPLICATION. All the obligations you lay upon an ungrateful per- son arc thrown away. And therciore they who would be esteemed wise, as well as good, should use some ex- actness in the direction of their favours, as well as ge- nerositv in the disposal of them. For there are some of such malevolent tempers, that they are not only im- proper objects of our good-nature, as 10 themselves, in being undeserving; but of such vile dispositions in re- spect to us, that we cannot approach them, though to dothem a kindness, withouten angering our own safety. Our good-nature, therefore, as good a quality as it is, will not excuse us, if we fall into the hands of these kind of people: something must be imputed to our easiness and want of attention; and if we are so free as to bestow our favours, without considering where we lace them, the discerning part of mankind will rank “us in the class of fools or madmen, instead of giving us the applause that is due to actions truly liberal. / ASOP’'S FABLES. FABLE CXCIII, The Cock and the Fox. 323 i A hy 3 ER Sex 7 ARN = #5 = Ta rar J —— a - v > ry, * - mA Tur Fox, passing early onc summer's mori near a farm-yard, was caught in a spring, which the farmer had planted there for that. end. The Cock at a distance, saw what happened; and, hardly yet daring to trust himself too near so dangerous a foe approached him cautiously, and ped at him, no without some horror and dread of mind. Reynard no sooner perceived it, but he addressed himself to him with all the designing artifice imagimable. Dear Cousin, says he, you see what an unfortunate aeei- dent has befallen me here, and all upon your account. For, as I was creeping through yonder edge, in my way homeward, I heard you crow, and was resolved to ask you how you did before I went any farther: but by the way T met with this disaster; and there fore now I must become an humble suitor to you fox a knife to cut this plaguy string; or at least, that you would conceal my misfortune, till I have gnawed it asunder with my teeth. The Cock, seeing how the case stood, made no reply, but posted away as RETR 4 ar dei i 4 E 1 3 H a i ie LE WAT al a | 324 ESOP’S FABLES. fast as he could, and gave the farmer an account of the whole matter ; who, taking a good weapon along with him, came and did the Fox’s business, before he could have time to contrive his esgape. THE APPLICATION. Though there is no quality of the mind more grace- ful in itself, or that renders it more amiable to others, than the having a tender regard to those who are in distress ; yet we may err, even in that point, unless we take care to let our compassion flow out upon pro- per objects only. When the innocent fall into mms- fortune, it is the part of a generous, brave spirit to contribute to their redemption ; or, if that be impossi- ble, to administer something to their comfort and sup- port. But when wicked men, who have been enemies to their fellow-subjects, are entrapped in their own pernicious schemes, he that labours to deliver them makes himself an associate in their crimes, and be- comes as great an enemy to the public, as those whom he would screen and protect. When highwaymen and housebreakers are taken, condemned, and going to satisfy justice, at the expense of their vile, paltry lives; who are they that grieve for them, and would be glad to rescue them from the rope? Not honest men, we may be sure. The rest of the thieving fraternity would perhaps commiserate their condition, and be ready to mutiny in their favour: nay, the rascally solicitor, who has been employed upon their account, would be vexed that his negociations had succeeded no better, and be afraid of losing his reputation among other delinquents for the future. But every friend to justice would have no reason to be dis- satisfied at any thing but a mournful reflection which he could not forbear making. That, while these little criminals swing for some trifling, inconsiderable rapine, others, so transcendantly their superiors in fraud and plunder, escape in a whole skin. ASOP’'S FABLES. 326 The Raven and the SERPENT. SH SHA MLL yr ve Lt eld 1a iy $ in “ly ny Lil Hina he HEE p— tag aT sn atl TA f A Huxcry Raven, flying about in quest of his prey, saw a Serpent basking himself upon the side of a sunny bank; down he soused upon him, and seized him with his horny beak, in order to de- vour him: but the Serpent, writhing to and fro with the pain, bit the Raven a ain with his venom- ous teeth, to such a degree, that he could not survive it. The Raven, in the agonies of death, is said to have confessed that this judgment happened to him justly ; since he had attempted to satisfy his cra- ving appetite at the expense of another's welfare. THE APPLICATION. They who are of a ravenous, greedy temper, and for swallowing all that comes in their way, may chance to meet with a sting in the end. When people are actuated by an insatiable avarice, they stick at nothing ; with= out considering the lawfulness, or even the real emolu- ment of snapping at all, right or wrong, down it goes; and, if it has but the appearance of gain, they are for making a seisure, let the consequence be what it will. Thus the covetous, whom God and man abhor, pu= pishes himself for his owa iniquity. Being deaf to the 326 ESOP’S FABLES. voice of conscience, and the distates of natural reason, and blind to every thing but his own vile selfish views, throws himself after getting, with a precipitate violence, and often dashes himself to pieces upon an unseen rock. FABLE CXCV. The Fox and the HEDGEHOG. ps hl l i Jad a ’ wv 0, LH Whe pall, “i « 87 Tet ' 1 uit dik i : . aif Tu RHI & we fain Je on Ep Jit) A Fox was swimming across a river; and, when he Te ote Ss, he found the bank so steep and slippery, that he could not get up it. But this was pre the misfortune ; or while he stood in the water, deliberating what to do, he was attacked by a swarm of flies, who, settling upon his head and eyes, stung and plagued him grievously. A Hedgehog, who stood upon the shore, beheld and pitied his condition, and withal, offered to drive away the flies, which molested and teased him in that manner. Friend, replies the Fox, I thank you for your kind offer, but must desire you by no means to destroy these honest bloodsuckers, that are now quartered upon me, and whose bellies are, I fancy, y well filled; for, if they should leave me, 8 swarm would take their places, and I should not have a drop of blood left in my whole body. AESOP’S FABLES. 3 THE APPLICATION. : This fable is recorded by Aristotle ; who tells us that ZEsopspokeittothe Samians,asan argument to dissuade them from deposing their great minister of state. And a shrewd and weighty one it is too. For a minister of state is either an honest public-spirited man, and la- bours for the good of the common- wealth; or he is chiefly intent, by all ways and means, upon filling his owm’ coffers, and upon aggrandizing and enriching his re- lations. Now, where the first happens, one need not say how much it behoves every particular man, and all in general, to wish for the continuance of so wise and good a patriot : neither should they part with him merely for being one of the other stamp; for, however criminal he may be, in having robbed and plundered the public, we should consider, that, like the flies in the fable, he is pretty near full; and if he were to be re- moved, would only make way for some other more hun~ gry, who would squeeze out of the poor people the re- mainder of their property. FABLE CXCVI. The MasTER and his SCHOLAR. eee ee ; tm HTT « iil 1p Hi iil Hy pr a, : ai Nia of a river, not far from his. school, he heard Eg: 5 328 ZESOP’S FABLES. ery as of one in distress; advancing a few paces farther, he saw one of his Scholars in the water, hanging by the bough of a willow. The boy had, it seems, been learning to swim with corks; and, now thinking himself sufficiently expérienced, had thrown those implements aside, and ventured Into the water without them; but the force of the stream having hurried him out of his depth, he had certainly been drowned, had not the branch of a willow, which grew on the bank, providentially hung in his way. The Master took up the corks, which lay upon the ground, and. throwing them to his Scholar, . made use of this opportunity to read a lecture to him upon the inconsiderate rashness of youth. Let this be an example to you, says he, in the conduct of your future life, never to throw away your corks till time has given you strength and ex- perience enough to swim without them. THE APPLICATION. - Some people are so vain and self-conceited, that they will run themselves into a thousand inconveniences, ra- ther than be thought to want assistance in any one re- spect. Now there are many little helps and accommo- dations in life, which they who launch outinto the wide ocean of the world ought to make use of as supporters to raise and buoy them up, till they are grown strong in the knowledge of men, and sufficiently versed in busi- ness, to stem the tide by themselves. Yet many, like the child in the fable, through an affectation of being thought able and experienced, undertake affairs which are too big for them, and venture out of their depth, before they find their own weakness and inability. Few are above being advised : nor are we ever too old to learn any thing which we may be the better for. But young men, above ell, should not disdain to open their eyes to example, and their ears to admonition. - They should not be ashamed to furnish themselves with rules for their behaviour in the world. However mean ASOP’'S FABLES. 329 it may seem to use such helps, yetit is really dangerous to be without them. As a man who is lame with the gout, had better draw the observations of peopie upon him, by walking with a crutch, than expose himself to their ridicule by tumbling down in the dirt. It is as unnataral to see a young man throw himself out in con- versation with an assuming air, upon a subject which - he knows nothing of, as for a child of three months old to be left to go without its leading-strings; they are equally shocking and painful to the spectator. Let them have but patience till time and experience strengthen the mind of the one and the limbs of the other, and they may both make such excursions as may not be disagreeable or offensive to the eye of the be- holder. And here it may not be improper to say something by way of application to the whole. Itisnot expected that they who are versed and hackneyed in the paths of life should trouble themselves to peruse these little loose sketches of morality ; such way do well enough without them. They are written for the benefit of the young and the inexperienced; if they do but relish the contents of this book, so as to think it worth read- ing over two or three times, it will have attained its end; and should it meet with such a reception, the several authors originally concerned in these fables, and the present compiler of the whole, may be allowed not al- together to have misemployed their time, in preparing such a collation for their entertainment. : THR END, INDEX. BE A. Apvice, when to be rejected, Page 141. Who are unfit to give it, 177. Consider who gives it, before you take it, 44. Affectation, the inconveniences of it, 78. Itis the bane of beauty, 106. Other inconveniences of it, 161 Agriculture recommended, 235. Athenians enslaved by Pisistratus, 6. Attorney draws the "Squire into a mortgage, 45. Avarice and ambition frequenily disappointed, 102. Unaccountable, 138. That and envy exposed and inquired into, 229. Thatand ambition ought to suf- fer, 9. The inconveniences of it, 325. Author’s merit, nat by writing much, but well, 126. B. Beauty, that of the mind preferable to that of the body, 106. Biter bit, 187. Brave men, above being provoked by cowards, 26. Bribe, cannot tempt an honest man, 182. Britons, jealous of strangers, 109. Bullies, generally cowards, 122. Overact their part, 207. C. Captious, not good to be so, 83. Change, seldom makes things better, 250. Changeling Plumstock, Sir, vies with Lord Castle- builder, 21. Children ought to take their parents’ advice, 196. Church, those that frequent it out of vanity, their reli gion not worth a straw, 49. INDEX. Civility, overacted, is suspicious, 182. Coffee-house politics, ridiculous, 243. Company (when bad) to be avoided, 262. It concerns us to keep good, 133. Complaints, better let alone, 190. Condition, seldom pleased with our own, 314. Unrea- sonable to repine at it, 54. Made worse by repi- ning at it, 82, Content, makes a poor man happy, 104. Conversation, when disagreeable, 317. Country, and country life recommended, 63. *Squire damns a court life, 42. Courage, nothing without conduct, 92. Court, those who frequent it should not value them- selves, 50. Cowards, cannotimposeupon those thatknow them, 128. Craft, repelled by cunning, allowable, 216, 238. Critic, envious, 43. Cunning, generally silly fellows who set up for it, 108. D. Death-bed repentance considered, 53. Death, dreaded by those who pretend to wish fort, 118. Death and love, unaccountable, 243. Decrees of fate not to be resisted, 40. Discarded statesman, discontented, 41. Distress, cruel to insult people in it, 104. Divisions among the great ones, how encouraged, 28. Do as you would be done by, 222. Double-tongued people to be avoided, 99. Neighbour, have a care of him, 140. Dreams, and such idle notions, the folly of them, 316. E. Education, the effects of it, 202. Enemies, not to be assisted or trusted, 61. Eavy described, its inconveniences, 219. Evenness of temper recommended, 298. Example, have a care how you make them, 257. INDEX. F. Fashions, oddly introduced, 116. Fault not tobe found with others, if guilty ourselves, 185. Favourite, every one not fit to be so, 211. Surprising when honest, 47. Fear, the inconveniences of it, 320. Itis unreasonable, © 55.- Vain and insignificant, 142. Flattery, mischievous, but hard to be avoided, 17. Foreigners should not'slight the country theyarein, 171. Fortune often blamed wrongfully, 156. Oughtto have her due, 310. Ls Forwardness should be discouraged, 195. Foul means, sometimes best, 192. Friend, false one, a detestable thing, 154. Them and relations not to be depended on, 72. We should be nice in our choice of them, 252. Friendship, necessary to our well-being, 24, 248, 294. Insecure till tried, 84. G Gaming-houses, those stupid that frequent them, 125. Genealogy, stupid to insist upon it, 158. Generosity, a handsome virtue, 57. Glass, a reason why we should often consult it, 132. Glory, nothing should be undertaken for the sake of it, 150. God, served better another way than by prayer, 100. Good-nature, our interest to exercise it, 57. Government, necessary to be supported, 69. Greatness, exposed to storms, 145. Great cry and little wool, 47. Great men, bad neighbours, 87. H. Habit, the inconvenience of it, 291. Haste, the more, the worst speed, 175. Honest man, his word as good as his oath, 307. Honesty the best policy, 189. Dangerousin bad times, 4. Humanity, how far it ought to go, 267. Is a great virtue, 168. INDEX. 7 Idle fellows troublesome any where, 179. Jest, how to baffle and defeat it, 85. ill men, not to be served, 13. Imitation, the ruin of many, 228. Impatience, hurtful, 90. Impertinents, pleasant to see them matched, 151. Impossibilities, should notbe attempted, 292. Incendiaries, what we should think of them, 268. Industry, recommended, 206. Industry, makes amends for want of parts, 270. Informer, an odious character, 283. Ingrateful people, ull that you do for them, thrown away, 322. Ingratitude, a great vice, 289. Considered, 46. Inhuman to treat an old servant ill, 52. Injuries, often hurtful to those who do them, 214. Injury, he that does it, never forgives, 265. Injustice, a lesson against it, 259. Innocent people, persecuted for being so, 309. Inquisition, why severe upon the Jews, 111. Insults, to people in distress, inhuman, 146. : Interest, at second-hand, not to be depended on, 303. Invention, an art recommended, 95. Juba, his address would be ill taken by some, 107. Judgment, want of it makes us unhappy, 59. The cause of its being wrong, 280. Justice, irregular, 166. K. King, he that breaks his word, not to be trusted, 148, How he ought to be qualified, 163. He that is in- dolent, cruel to his people, 34. Kite, a king good enough for some people, 29. Knav~s, once known, never to be well esteemed. 198. L. Law, the inconveniences of going to it, 239. Lend with caution, 19. Liar, once detected, never to be believed, 263. INDEX. Liberties of the people, not to be trusted without secu- Ye of inty, 170 Life, full of uncertainty, 170. Little people suffer when great ones fall out, 28. Look before you leap, 136. " Luxury and intemperance, short-lived, 104. M. Man, a true one hard to be found, 288. His mind like bow, 172. Mankind, averse to boistercus treatment, 77. Never know when they are well, 200. : Marriage. fatal when unequal, 58. When the effect of love only, fatal and rash, 119. Young fellows un- by it, bid. rt Year blood the seed of the church, 77. Men always losers by the women, 32, Menenius Agrippa appeases a ig 69. it, arises from good sense, 83. J Hort, a discarded, how he may clear himself, 111. A wicked one, why to be tolerated, 327. Modesty and impudence in extremes, 231. N. Nature, the force of it, 275. 0. Offices, good, to be done to proper objects, 46. Officiousness, to be suspected, 261. Old age, an agreeable one, 164. © Opinion, we must judge according to i OTE Opportunity, the present not to be neglected, . Quiside, not to be trusted, 268. P. banic by ourselves, 55. Ba of some, 311. Our duty 13 thes arises from their goodness, 38. They may be un Po, rin to be expected from JY sono 96. ‘They are wicked who occasion parties, £90. INDEX. Party, base to desert, but very common, 213. Passion, the ill effects of it, 284. Persecution makes people obstinate, 77. Physician should heal himself, 80. Dliyss but poor comfort, 281. Not always to be shown, 4. Place, often the cause of insolence, 193. Poverty, those that dread it part with their "iherty, 63. Power not to be trusted, 11. Especially unlimited, with no man, 30. Prayers, the impropriety of them, 100. Praying, the manner of it, considered, 304. How often used for trifles, 319. Preacher declaims against drunkenness, 30. Precaution, a good thing, 163, Prerogative, seldom made a good use of, 61. Pride, the inconvenience of it, 234. Principles not easily to be counterfeited, 174. Promise nothing but what is in your power, 75. Providence, unfathomable, 209, Public spirit, many pretend to it, 286. Q. Quality, who are men of true, 49. R. Rashuness, the inconveniences of it, 241. Respect, how to be preserved, 246. Revenge, easy, 113. [Its being so, a reason against doing injuries, 24. : Revolutions in government, seldom hurt the poor, 129. Rich, those who become so unjustly, what they must do, 68. Riches, when an incumbrance, 232. Too often in ill hands, 209. Ridiculous, how some people make themselvesso, 184. Robber of the public ought to live in fear. hogues multiplied by being successful, 155. Rulers of a state to be kept up in grandeur, 69. Not to be chosen for their outside, 255. INDEX. Self, every man should exert himself, and not trust others, 72. Self-love, no ill principle, 278. Servants neglect their masters’ affairs, 34. i. Slavery, rogues and villains who consent to beagit, 36. Spectres, &c. when they flourish most, 142. Spendthrifts repent too late, 125. Suspicion, a useful quality, 153. T. Times deplorable, when villainy is protected, 221. Traitors, hated by those who employ them, 251. Travellers given to lying, 130. Trust, have a care whom, 273. Trust, no injuries so bitter as from those we trust, 181. Turn, one.good, deserves another, 226. V. Very pretty fellows, strangers to virtue and know- ledge, 2. Virtue, troublesome to a ycung lady, 15. Visits, which appear charitable, not always so, 10. Vulgar, not to be followed, 52. W. Weakness in conversation, what happens upon it, 82. Wicked men, in power, easily find pretences, 218. Hate those that are otherwise, 298. We should avoid them, 301. Wife, that loves her husband, what she should do, 32. Wit, dangerous for fools to attempt it, 24. Hurtful to him that uses it to hurt others, 21. Words, men known by them, 299. Worth, a man lessens his own by inquiring afterit, 297. Y. Young lady practising at her glass, 14. Young men, a piece of advice to them, 328. FINIS. -. T. C. Hansard, Pater-aoster-row Press. THE FOLLOWING ELEMENTARY WORKS, BY JOHN HODGKIN, Which are intended, by the means of occasional transcription, to lessen the labour of TEACHERS, in imparting, and of LEARNERS in acquiring, a knowledge of some of the rudiments of GRAM- Mar and GEOGRAPHY, are respectfully offered to the notice of T1I0SE WHO ARE ENGAGED IN THE IMPORTANT CHARGE OF THE EDUCATION OF YOUTH: they are published by HARVEY & DARTON, Gracechurch-street ; sold by them, and" by SiMPKIN & MARSHALL, Stationers’ Court; W. DINMORE, Old Broad-street; and T. SOTHERAN, Little Tower-street. —————— l. An INTRODUCTION to WRITING and GRAM- MAR; containing, 1st. Clear and concise Rules for the Formation and Combination of the Letters; and a collection of questions to exercise the Learner, and prepare him to apply these Rules in the same manner as those of Grammar are applied in Parsing. 2ndly. 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