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- width: .01em; - display: none; - } - - blockquote {margin: 1.5em 3% 1.5em 3%;} - - .poem-container {text-align: left; margin-left: 5%;} - .poem {display: block;} - .poem .stanza {page-break-inside: avoid;} - - .transnote { - page-break-inside: avoid; - margin-left: 2%; - margin-right: 2%; - margin-top: 1em; - margin-bottom: 1em; - padding: .5em; - } - - .covernote {visibility: visible; display: block; text-align: center;} -} - </style> - </head> - -<body> - - -<pre> - -Project Gutenberg's The Fables of Æsop, and Others, by Thomas Bewick - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: The Fables of Æsop, and Others - With Designs on Wood - -Author: Thomas Bewick - -Release Date: August 1, 2019 [EBook #60004] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE FABLES OF ÆSOP, AND OTHERS *** - - - - -Produced by Chris Curnow, Charlie Howard, and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive) - - - - - - -</pre> - - -<p class="transnote covernote vspace"><span class="large">Transcriber’s Note:</span><br /> - -Cover created by Transcriber, using content of the -original book, and placed in the Public Domain.</p> - -<div id="if_i_000a" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 25em;"> - <img src="images/i_000a.jpg" width="390" height="620" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"> - -<p class="right l4 b0"> -<i>Newcastle 1<sup>st</sup>. October 1818</i><br /> -<i>To Thomas Bewick & Son D<sup>r</sup>.,<br /> -To an Imp<sup>l</sup>. Copy of Esop’s Fables 1<sup>£</sup> 11<sup>s</sup> 6<sup>d</sup></i></p> - -<p class="center p0"><i>Received the above with thanks</i></p> - -<p class="p1 center"><i>Thomas Bewick</i> <span class="in2"><i>Robert Elliot Bewick</i></span></p> - -<p class="center"><i>Thomas Bewick</i></p> - -<p class="center"><i>his <span class="in4">Mark</span></i></p> -</div></div> - -<hr /> - -<h1><span class="small wspace">THE</span><br /> -FABLES OF ÆSOP,<br /> -<span class="small">AND OTHERS,</span><br /> -<span class="xxsmall">WITH DESIGNS ON WOOD,</span></h1> - -<p class="p2 center vspace"><span class="smaller">BY</span><br /> -<span class="larger">THOMAS BEWICK.</span></p> - -<p class="p2 center vspace">“<i>The wisest of the Ancients delivered their Conceptions of the Deity, and<br /> -their Lessons of Morality, in Fables and Parables.</i>”</p> - -<div id="if_i_000b" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_000b.jpg" width="437" height="259" alt="" /></div> - -<p class="p2 center">NEWCASTLE:</p> - -<p class="p1 center vspace wspace"><span class="small">PRINTED BY E. WALKER, FOR T. BEWICK AND SON.<br /> -SOLD BY THEM, LONGMAN AND CO. LONDON,<br /> -AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.</span><br /> -1818. -</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_iii">iii</span></p> - -<div id="if_i_000c" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 32em;"> - <img src="images/i_000c.jpg" width="503" height="336" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"><i> -<span class="i0">Wise Men think<br /></span> -<span class="i2">Good Men Grieve<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Knaves invent<br /></span> -<span class="i2">and Fools believe.</span></i> -</div></div></div> -</div></div> - -<h2 id="THE_PREFACE_DEDICATORY" class="nobreak p2">THE PREFACE DEDICATORY.</h2> - -<p class="center b2"><i>To the Youth of the British Isles.</i></p> - -<p class="in0"><span class="firstword">In</span> collecting together, for your use and benefit, some -of the prudential maxims, and moral apothegms, of the -ancient sages, the Publishers of this volume have been -stimulated by an ardent desire to render this excellent -mode of instruction as agreeable as possible; and, at -the same time, to impress the precepts contained in the -Fables more forcibly on your minds, they have endeavoured -to make the embellishments worthy of your notice -and examination.</p> - -<p>If the seeds of morality and patriotism be early -sown, they will spring up, and ripen to maturity, in -a confirmed love of truth, integrity and honour; and -without these for his guide, no man can do credit to -himself or his country. This consideration is of vital<span class="pagenum" id="Page_iv">iv</span> -importance; for our comfort and happiness through -life, mainly depend upon a strict adherence to the rules -of morality and religion. The youth who is early tutored -in an invincible regard for his own character, will -soon perceive the duties imposed upon him by society, -and will have pleasure in fulfilling them, as much for -his own satisfaction as for the sake of his fellow men: -but when the latent powers of the mind are neglected, -or not directed into the paths of rectitude, by good precepts -and worthy examples, vice and folly enter the -opening, and lead their victim into evils and errors, -which render his life miserable, and sometimes hurry -him into an ignominious grave.</p> - -<p>To delineate the characters and passions of men, under -the semblance of Lions, Tigers, Wolves, and Foxes, -is not so extravagant a fiction as it may at first sight -seem: for the innocent and inexperienced will find, -when they engage in the busy scenes of the world, that -they will have to deal with men of dispositions not unlike -those animals; and that their utmost vigilance will -be required to guard against their violence or machinations.</p> - -<p>In attempting to form an estimate of the characters -of mankind, many gradations and shades will be found -between the two extremes of virtue and vice. The -philanthropist views with feelings of benevolence the -wavering balance, and adds those he finds on the confines,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_v">v</span> -to the number of the virtuous; while the misanthrope, -with gloomy malignity, endeavours to include -within the circle of vice, those who are standing upon -the ill-defined line of division, and thus swells the number -of the bad. Both observe with pain, that great -numbers exist, whose whole lives seem to be spent in -disfiguring the beautiful order which might otherwise -reign in society, regardless of the misery which their -wickedness scatters around them. They see men, who -suffer their bad passions and gross appetites to be the -sole rule of their conduct; and whether these shew -themselves in an inordinate ambition, a thirst after false -glory, or an insatiable avarice, their consequences are -pernicious, and diffuse evil, distress, and ruin among -mankind, in proportion to the extent to which their -baneful influence reaches. The misanthrope, in contemplating -the scene of mischief and disorder, is apt to -arraign the wisdom and justice of Providence for permitting -it to exist; but the philanthropist views it -with a more extended range of vision; and while he -laments the evil, he attributes the apparent want of -human feelings in the actors, to an early perversion of -intellect, or to a stifling of the reasoning power given -by the Great Creator to man for his guide, and without -which he is the worst animal in the creation, a -mere two-legged Tiger. Upon the childhood and -youth of such men, the great truth taught by the inspired<span class="pagenum" id="Page_vi">vi</span> -and wisest writers of all ages, that “no life can -be pleasing to God which is not useful to man,” has -not been sufficiently impressed, or probably the energy -with which they pursue their wicked career might have -been led into a different course, and instead of the -scourges, they would have been the benefactors of -mankind.</p> - -<p>When religion and morality are blended together -in the mind, they impart their blessings to all who seek -the aid of the one and obey the dictates of the other, -and their joint effects are seen and felt in the perpetual -cheerfulness they impart. They incite the innocent -whistle of the ploughman at his plough, of the cobler in -his stall, and the song of the milk-maid at her pail: -and it is a sign of their being perverted, when they -engender melancholy notions; for these are the offspring -of bigotry, fanaticism, and ignorance. The -service of the Omnipotent is not of this gloomy cast; -he has spread out the table of this beautiful world of -wonders, for the use of his creatures, and has placed -man at the head of it, that he might enjoy its bounties, -as well as prepare himself for the approaching change -to another, which inspiration has powerfully impressed -on his soul as the <em>unknowable</em> region of his next advance. -The materialist, in his dreary reveries, cannot -comprehend this, neither will he acknowledge that -his being placed here is equally as miraculous as that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_vii">vii</span> -he should be placed in another world or worlds, progressively -to improve, to all eternity: but to harbour -doubts on this subject, is like disputing the wisdom, -the justice, and the mercy of the Author of our being, -who, according to the conceptions we form of his -goodness, as exhibited in the design, the grandeur, and -the immensity of creation, where every thing is systematic, -regular, and in order, would never decree that man -should be placed here instinctively to know his Maker—to -take a short peep at the stupendous, the amazing -whole—to view all these, and have powers of mind -given him only to know and repugnantly to feel, that -after a life mixed with turmoil, grief, and disease, he is -to be annihilated! In our conception of things, and to -the limited understanding which has been given us, all -this would appear to be labour in vain.</p> - -<p>The volume of the creation speaks alike to all, and -cannot be defaced by man; but the ways of Providence -are beyond his comprehension. Omnipotence has not -been pleased to gratify his pride and vanity, nor to -consult his understanding, in the government of the -universe; but sufficient has been disclosed unto him to -point out the moral duties he owes to society, and the -religious worship due to his Maker, without groping -after what is utterly beyond his reach: for our feeble -reason is too weak to comprehend the divine essence; -and our thoughts, on their utmost stretch, roll back<span class="pagenum" id="Page_viii">viii</span> -on darkness. We reason, but we err: for how can -we comprehend the immensity of endless space, of time -and eternity, a beginning or an end; or what conceptions -can we form of the Power which made the sun -and worlds without number? Truly, this is far too -much for a finite being, who does not know why he can -move one of his own fingers, or cease to do so when he -pleases! But all may know and fulfil their religious -obligations, by reverencing and adoring their Creator, -and walking humbly before him, and their moral duties, -by being in their several stations, good sons, brothers, -husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, neighbours, -and members of society.</p> - -<p>Having, with humble diffidence, in this masquerade -of life, attempted to point out to youth the exterior of -the temple of virtue, and to lead them to its steps, the -Editor leaves them there, respectfully recommending -them to explore the whole interior, under the guidance -of men more eminent for their mental powers and attainments -in learning, philosophy, and piety. Of these, -an illustrious band have placed, at every avenue and -turning, their inestimable works, as directions to guide -us to usefulness and respectability here, and eternal -happiness hereafter.</p> - -<div id="if_i_000d" class="figright" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img src="images/i_000d.jpg" width="319" height="60" alt="Thomas Bewick" /> - <!--<div class="caption"><i>Thomas Bewick</i>--></div> - -<p class="in0 in1 clear"><i>Newcastle, September, 1818.</i></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_ix">ix</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="if_i_000e" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_000e.jpg" width="530" height="440" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE INTRODUCTION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">From</span> time to time, in all ages, men inspired, or -gifted with a superior degree of intellectual power, -have appeared upon the stage of life, in order (by enlightening -others) to fulfil the designs of Omnipotence, -in uniting the world in a state of civilized society.</p> - -<p>Patriarchs, or heads of families, at first directed or -governed those who were immediately dependent upon -them: these in time increased, and became <em>clans</em>; these -again, by their quarrels, and their wars, were induced -to elect chieftains or kings over a number of united -clans,—from which were formed the various nations -and kingdoms of the earth. In this early stage of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_x">x</span> -world, when men were ignorant and uncivilized, the -chase and war seem almost wholly to have occupied -their time and attention. Their kings ruled over them -with despotic sway, and the will of the prince was the -only law: and thus the barbarism of the subject and -the tyranny of the ruler went hand in hand together. -That over-swollen pride, which seems the natural accompaniment -of despotic power, blinds the understandings -of its possessors, and renders them wholly regardless -of the important trust reposed in them. The evils -arising out of their bad government, are felt, more or -less, by the whole people over whom they preside; and -pride and arrogance prevent the approach of sincerity -and truth. The sycophant and the slave then only -find admission, and all other men are kept at a distance. -While kings and governors were of this character, -the voice of truth could only reach their ears -through allegory and fable, which took their rise in -the infancy of learning, and seem to have been the -only safe mode of conveying admonition to tyrants. -This pleasing method of instilling instruction into the -mind, has been found by experience to be the shortest -and best way of accomplishing that end, among all -ranks and conditions of men.</p> - -<p>The first Fable upon record, is that of Jotham and -the Trees, in the Bible; and the next, that of The -Poor Man and his Lamb, as related by Nathan to -King David, and which carried with it a blaze of truth -that flashed conviction on the mind of the royal transgressor. -Lessons of reproof, religion, and morality, -were, we find, continually delivered in this mode, by -the sages of old, to the exalted among mankind.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xi">xi</span> -It is asserted by authors, that Apologues and Fables -had their origin in the Eastern world, and that the -most ancient of them were the productions of Veesh-nou -Sarma, commonly called Pilpay, whose beautiful -collections of Apologues were esteemed as sacred -books in India and Persia, whence they were spread -abroad among other nations, and were by them celebrated -and holden in much estimation. They were -translated from the Persian and Arabian into Greek, -by Simeon Seth, a man of great learning, who was an -officer of the imperial household at Constantinople -about the year 1070. Seth’s Version was imitated in -Latin by Piers Alfonse, a converted Jew, as early as -the year 1107; and this is supposed to have been the -first version of Pilpay’s Apologues that made its way, -and became familiarized in Europe. The time in -which Pilpay lived, seems not to be certainly known -to the learned; but some of them suppose that the -Fables of Æsop and others were grounded upon his -models. The time in which Æsop lived is better ascertained, -and of all the Fabulists who have amused -and instructed mankind by their writings, his name -stands pre-eminent. Authors fix his birth-place at -Cotieum, in Phrygia Major. But the history of this -remarkable person, who lived about 572 years before -Christ, and about 100 years before Herodotus, the -Greek historian, has been so involved in mystery, traditionary -stories, and absurd conjectures, that any attempt -to give a detail from such materials, would only -serve to bewilder youth, and lead them into a labyrinth -of error; and it would be impertinent to trouble -the learned reader with that which must be sufficiently<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xii">xii</span> -familiar to him.<a id="FNanchor_A" href="#Footnote_A" class="fnanchor">A</a> The whole of the absurd -fictions concerning this wise and amiable man, were invented -by Maximus Planudes, a Greek monk.<a id="FNanchor_B" href="#Footnote_B" class="fnanchor">B</a> Plutarch, -and other authentic historians,<a id="FNanchor_C" href="#Footnote_C" class="fnanchor">C</a> have, however, -given a very different account of the illustrious Fabulist. -It would appear, according to some of these relations, -that Æsop, originally a shepherd’s boy, had risen -from the condition of a slave, to great eminence, and -that he lived in the service of Xanthus and Judman, -or Idmon, in the island of Samos, and afterwards -at Athens. Phædrus speaks of him as living the -greater part of his life at the latter place, where, it -appears, a handsome statue, executed by the hand of -the famous statuary Lysippus, was erected to his memory, -and placed before those of the seven sages of -Greece.<a id="FNanchor_D" href="#Footnote_D" class="fnanchor">D</a> He also notices his living at Samos, and -interesting himself in a public capacity, in the administration -of the affairs of that place; where Aristotle also -introduces him as a public speaker, and records the -fact of his reciting the fable of the Fox and the Hedgehog,<a id="FNanchor_E" href="#Footnote_E" class="fnanchor">E</a> -while pleading on behalf of a minister, upon the -occasion of his being impeached for embezzling the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xiii">xiii</span> -public treasure. Æsop is also mentioned as speaking -in a public capacity to the Athenians, at the time when -Pisistratus seized upon their liberties.<a id="FNanchor_F" href="#Footnote_F" class="fnanchor">F</a> Upon each of -these occasions he is represented as having introduced a -Fable into his discourse, in a witty and pleasing manner. -He was holden in the highest veneration and esteem -in his day, by all men eminent for their wisdom and -virtue. It appears there was scarcely an author among -the ancient Greeks who mixed any thing of morality -in his writings, that did not either quote or mention -Æsop. Plato describes Socrates as turning some of -Æsop’s Fables into verse, during those awful hours -which he spent in prison, immediately before his death. -Aristophanes not only takes hints from Æsop, but mentions -him much to his honour, as one whose works -were, or ought to be, read before any other. Ennius -and Horace have embellished their poetry from his -stores; and ancient sages and authors all concur in -bearing the most ample testimony to his distinguished -merits. Plutarch, in his imaginary banquet of the -seven wise men, among several other illustrious persons -of ancient times, celebrated for their wit and knowledge, -introduces Æsop, and describes him as being -very courtly and polite in his behaviour. Upon the -authority of Plutarch also, we fix the life of Æsop in the -time of Crœsus, king of Lydia, who invited him to the -court of Sardis. By this prince, he was holden in such<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xiv">xiv</span> -esteem, as to 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 550 -before Christ. He was also deputed by Crœsus to -consult the oracle of Delphi. While on this embassy, -he was ordered to distribute to each of the citizens, -four <em>minæ</em><a id="FNanchor_G" href="#Footnote_G" class="fnanchor">G</a> of silver, but some disputes arising between -them and Æsop, he reproached them for their -indolence, in suffering their lands to lie uncultivated, -and in depending on the gratuities of strangers for a -precarious subsistence: the quarrel, which it would -appear ran high between them, ended in Æsop’s sending -back the money to Sardis. This so exasperated -the Delphians, that they resolved upon his destruction; -and that they might have some colour of justice for -what they intended, they concealed among his effects, -when he was taking his departure from Delphi, a gold -cup, consecrated to Apollo; and afterwards pursuing -him, easily found what they themselves had hidden. -On the pretext that he had committed this sacrilegious -theft, they carried him back to the city, and notwithstanding -his imprecating upon them the vengeance of -heaven, they immediately condemned him to be cast -from the rock Hypania, as the punishment of the -pretended crime. Ancient historians say, that for this -wickedness, the Delphians were for a long time visited -with pestilence and famine, until an expiation was -made, and then the plague ceased.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_A" href="#FNanchor_A" class="fnanchor">A</a> The curious enquirer is referred to the Essay on the Æsopean Fable, -by Sir Brooke Boothby, bart. from which this sketch is extracted.</p> - -<p><a id="Footnote_B" href="#FNanchor_B" class="fnanchor">B</a> Planudes lived at Constantinople in the 14th century. His Fables -were printed at Milan, A.D. 1480.</p> - -<p><a id="Footnote_C" href="#FNanchor_C" class="fnanchor">C</a> The first person who took great pains to detect and expose the follies -and absurdities of Planudes’s Life of Æsop, and collected what could be -known, was Bachet de Mezeriac, a man of great learning, who flourished -about the year 1632.</p> - -<p><a id="Footnote_D" href="#FNanchor_D" class="fnanchor">D</a> These sages were Solon, Thales, Chilo, Cleobulus, Bias, Pittacus, -and Periander, to whom Laertius adds Anacharsis, Maro, Pherecydes, -Epimenides, and Pisistratus.</p> - -<p><a id="Footnote_E" href="#FNanchor_E" class="fnanchor">E</a> “Ye men of Samos, let me entreat you to do as the Fox did; for -this man, having got money enough, can have no further occasion to rob -you; but if you put him to death, some needy person will fill his place, -whose wants must be supplied out of your property.” -</p> -<p> -The Fable of the Fox and the Hedgehog was applied by Themistocles -to dissuade the Athenians from removing their magistrates.—<i>B. -Boothby.</i></p> - -<p><a id="Footnote_F" href="#FNanchor_F" class="fnanchor">F</a> The Fable of the Frogs desiring a King.</p> - -<p><a id="Footnote_G" href="#FNanchor_G" class="fnanchor">G</a> The mina of silver was 12 ounces, about £3 sterling.</p></div> - -<p>It was not until many ages after the death of Æsop, -that his most prominent successor, Phædrus, arose. He<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xv">xv</span> -translated Æsop’s Fables from the Greek into Latin, -and added to them many of his own. Of Phædrus -little is known, except from his works. He is said to -have lived in the times of the Emperors Augustus and -Tiberius, and to have died in the reign of the latter. -The first printed edition of his Fables, with cuts, was -published at Gauda, in 1482. Caxton published some -of them in 1484, and Bonus Accursius in 1489, to -which he prefixed Planudes’s Life of Æsop. But the -most perfect edition of Phædrus’s Works was published -in five volumes, by Peter Pithou, at Troyes, in 1596, -from manuscripts discovered by him in the cities of -Rheims and Dijon. To these have succeeded in later -times, a numerous list of fabulists,<a id="FNanchor_H" href="#Footnote_H" class="fnanchor">H</a> besides such of the -poets as have occasionally interspersed Fables in their -works. These, in their day, have had, and many of -them still have, their several admirers; but Gay and -Dodsley best maintain their ground in this country, as -is proved by the regular demand for new editions. -Croxall’s Fables, which were first published in 1722, -with cuts on metal, in the manner of wood, have also -had a most extensive sale; and Sir Brooke Boothby’s<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xvi">xvi</span> -elegant little volumes, in verse, published in 1809, are -now making their way into the public notice. The -Editor of the present volume, in attempting to continue -the same pleasing mode of conveying instruction, long -since laid down as a guide to virtue, has quoted and -compiled from other fabulists, whatever seemed best -suited to his purpose. His sole object is utility, and he -is not altogether without hope, that in attempting to -embellish and perpetuate a fabric, which has its foundations -laid in religion and morality, his efforts may -not be wholly ineffectual to induce the young to keep -steadily in view those great truths, which form the sure -land-mark to the haven, where only they can attain -peace and happiness.</p> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p class="hangfn"><a id="Footnote_H" href="#FNanchor_H" class="fnanchor">H</a> - -Sir Roger L’Estrange, born 1616, died 1704.<br /> -John de la Fontaine, born 1621, died 1695.<br /> -John Dryden, born 1631, died 1701.<br /> -Antoine Houdart de la Motte, born 1672, died 1731.<br /> -John Gay, born 1688, died 1732.<br /> -Samuel Croxall, D. D. Archdeacon of Hereford, died 1752.<br /> -Edward Moore, died 1757.<br /> -Draper.<br /> -Robert Dodsley, born 1703, died 1764.<br /> -William Wilkie, born 1721, died 1772.<br /> -Abbe Brotier, born 1722, died 1789.<br /> - -</p></div> - -<div id="if_i_000f" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_000f.jpg" width="336" height="351" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xvii">xvii</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="if_i_000g" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_000g.jpg" width="435" height="371" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TABLE OF CONTENTS.</h2> -</div> - -<table id="toc" summary="Table of Contents"> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">A</td></tr> - <tr class="small"> - <td> </td> - <td class="tdr">PAGE</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ape and her Young Ones</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_3">3</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Sensible Ass</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_69">69</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Æsop and the Impertinent Fellow</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_81">81</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Angler and the Little Fish</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_111">111</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ass and the Lion hunting</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_161">161</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ass in the Lion’s Skin</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_187">187</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ape chosen King</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_195">195</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ant and the Fly</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_269">269</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ant and the Grasshopper</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_307">307</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ape and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_319">319</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Æsop at Play</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_333">333</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ass eating Thistles</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_369">369</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">B<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xviii">xviii</span></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Boy and his Mother</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_5">5</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Brother and Sister</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_31">31</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Shepherd’s Boy and the Wolf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_61">61</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Bear and the Bee-Hives</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_119">119</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Bees, the Drones, and the Wasp</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_145">145</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Hunted Beaver</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_159">159</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Bull and the Goat</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_171">171</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Two Bitches</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_183">183</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Boar and the Ass</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_205">205</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Blackamoor</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_223">223</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Belly and the Members</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_275">275</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Boys and the Frogs</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_375">375</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">C</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Two Crabs</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Collier and the Fuller</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_13">13</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Cock and the Jewel</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_47">47</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Wanton Calf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_57">57</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Crow and the Pitcher</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_63">63</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Cat and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_107">107</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Cat and the Mice</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_149">149</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Cæsar and the Slave</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_177">177</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Clown and the Gnat</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_189">189</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Countryman and the Snake</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_217">217</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Cock and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_219">219</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fighting Cocks</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_349">349</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Cock and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_359">359</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">D</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Dog in the Manger</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_77">77</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ship Dog</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_99">99</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Dog invited to Supper</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_109">109</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Dog and the Shadow</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_117">117</a><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xix">xix</span></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Mischievous Dog</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_169">169</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Dog and the Sheep</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_207">207</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Dog and the Wolf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_287">287</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The One-eyed Doe</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_297">297</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Deer and the Lion</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_315">315</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Dove and the Bee</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_339">339</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Dog and the Cat</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_371">371</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">E</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Eagle, the Cat, and the Sow</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39">39</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Eagle and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_273">273</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Eagle and the Crow</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_301">301</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">F</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Proud Frog and the Ox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_17">17</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Vizor Mask</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_51">51</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Crow</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_67">67</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Forester and the Lion</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_83">83</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox without a Tail</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_95">95</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Ass</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_105">105</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Tiger</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_115">115</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Frogs and their King</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_135">135</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fir and the Bramble</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_143">143</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Frog and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_147">147</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Fortune and the Boy</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_153">153</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Grapes</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_167">167</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fisherman</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_173">173</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Boar</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_175">175</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Frogs and the Fighting Bulls</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_179">179</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Two Frogs</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_199">199</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Briar</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_201">201</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Stork</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_215">215</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the HedgeHog</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_227">227</a><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xx">xx</span></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Goat</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_235">235</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fowler and the Ring-dove</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_249">249</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fowler and the Blackbird</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_263">263</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fatal Marriage</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_277">277</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Lion</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_285">285</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Flying Fish and the Dolphin</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_289">289</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox in the Well</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_311">311</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Sick Lion</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_323">323</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Countryman</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_331">331</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fox and the Wolf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_335">335</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Frogs and the Mice</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_353">353</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fowler and the Lark</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_355">355</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Fowler and the Partridge</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_363">363</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">G</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Goat, the Kid, and the Wolf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_29">29</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Goat and the Lion</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_101">101</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Gardener and his Dog</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_313">313</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Wild and the Tame Geese</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_351">351</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">H</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Husbandman and his Sons</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_15">15</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Hercules and the Carter</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Drunken Husband</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_121">121</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Hen and the Swallow</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_127">127</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Hart and the Vine</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_157">157</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Old Hound</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_181">181</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Hen and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_185">185</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Hare and the Tortoise</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_221">221</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Hares and the Frogs</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_251">251</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Harper</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_267">267</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Horse and the Stag</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_303">303</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Horse and the Lion</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_309">309</a><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xxi">xxi</span></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Horse and the Ass</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_327">327</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Hawk and the Farmer</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_329">329</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Horse and the over-loaded Ass</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_343">343</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Husbandman and the Stork</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_345">345</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">I</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Industry and Sloth</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_9">9</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">J</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Jupiter and the Ass</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_79">79</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Jupiter and the Camel</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_139">139</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Jupiter and the Herdsman</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_209">209</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Juno and the Peacock</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_237">237</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Jupiter and Pallas</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_241">241</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Vain Jack-daw</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_255">255</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">K</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Bald Knight</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_87">87</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Kite and the Pigeons</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_281">281</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Sick Kite</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_283">283</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Kid and the Wolf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_293">293</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">L</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Leopard and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_21">21</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lark and her Young Ones</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_41">41</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lion and the Four Bulls</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_89">89</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lion, the Tiger, and the Wolf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_93">93</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lioness and the Fox</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_123">123</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lamb brought up by a Goat</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_125">125</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Old Lion</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_211">211</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lion in Love</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_225">225</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lion and other Beasts</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_239">239</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lion and the Mouse</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_257">257</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lion and the Frog</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_291">291</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Lion, the Wolf, and the Dog</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_367">367</a><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xxii">xxii</span></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">M</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Master and his Scholar</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_7">7</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Young Man and the Swallow</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">11</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Mole and her Dam</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_27">27</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Young Men and the Cook</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_43">43</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Mule</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_45">45</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Mercury and the Woodman</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_49">49</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Man and his Goose</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_55">55</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Old Man and his Sons</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_91">91</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Miser and his Treasure</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_97">97</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">A Man bitten by a Dog</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_113">113</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Envious Man and the Covetous</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_129">129</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Mice in Council</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_193">193</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Old Man and Death</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_197">197</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Man and the Weasel</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_203">203</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Magpie and the Sheep</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_213">213</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Man and his Two Wives</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_231">231</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">Mercury and the Carver</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_233">233</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Mountains in Labour</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_253">253</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Mouse and the Weasel</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_271">271</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Young Man and the Lion</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_279">279</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Country and the City Mouse</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_295">295</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Miller, his Son, and their Ass</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_305">305</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Young Man and his Cat</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_361">361</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Blind Man and the Lame</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_365">365</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">N</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Nurse and the Wolf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_265">265</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">O</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Oak and the Reed</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_151">151</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">P<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xxiii">xxiii</span></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Peacock and the Crane</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_23">23</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Two Pots</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_25">25</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Partridge and the Cocks</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_65">65</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Porcupine and the Snakes</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_131">131</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Polecat and the Cock</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_261">261</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Ploughman and Fortune</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_317">317</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">R</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Raven and the Serpent</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_337">337</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">S</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Stag looking into the Water</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_19">19</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Sheep Biter</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Swallow and other Birds</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_71">71</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Sow and the Wolf</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_133">133</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Stag and the Fawn</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_141">141</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Sow and the Bitch</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_163">163</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Satyr and the Traveller</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_165">165</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Sparrow and the Hare</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_229">229</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Stag in the Ox-Stall</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_247">247</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Sun and the Wind</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_325">325</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Serpent and the Man</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_341">341</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Shepherd turned Merchant</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_357">357</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">T</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Thief and the Dog</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_53">53</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Boasting Traveller</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_59">59</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Thieves and the Cock</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_73">73</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The two Travellers</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_103">103</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Tortoise and the Eagle</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_259">259</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Trees and the Woodman</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_299">299</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Thief and the Boy</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_321">321</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Travellers and the Bear</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_347">347</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Trumpeter taken Prisoner</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_373">373</a><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xxiv">xxiv</span></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">V</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Viper and the File</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_243">243</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdc let" colspan="2">W</td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Old Woman and her Maids</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_35">35</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Wolves and the Sick Ass</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_75">75</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Wolf, the Fox, and the Ape</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_85">85</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Old Woman and the Empty Cask</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_137">137</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Wolf and the Crane</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_155">155</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Wolf and the Lamb</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_191">191</a></td></tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdl">The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing</td> - <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_245">245</a></td></tr> -</table> - -<div id="if_i_000h" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 18em;"> - <img src="images/i_000h.jpg" width="279" height="253" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">1</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2><span class="larger vspace2 wspace"><span class="small">THE</span><br /> - -FABLES OF ÆSOP,<br /> - -<span class="small">AND OTHERS.</span></span></h2> -</div> - -<hr /> - -<div id="ip_1" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_001.jpg" width="563" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TWO CRABS.</h2> - -<p class="in0"><span class="firstword">Two</span> Crabs, the mother and daughter, having been left -by the receding tide, were creeping again towards the -water, when the former observing the awkward gait of -her daughter, got into a great passion, and desired her -to move straight forward, in a more becoming and -sprightly manner, and not crawl sideling along in a way -so contrary to all the rest of the world. Indeed mother, -says the young Crab, I walk as properly as I can, and -to the best of my knowledge; but if you would have<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">2</span> -me to go otherwise, I beg you would be so good as to -practise it first, and shew me by your own example -how you would have me to conduct myself.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Ill</span> examples corrupt even the best natural disposition, -and it is in vain to instruct our children, their -talents being only imitation, to walk by one rule, if we -ourselves go by another. The good precepts which we -may lay down to them, will be bestowed in vain, if they -see by our own conduct, that we pursue a contrary -course to that which we recommend to them. Parents -therefore, who are desirous of working an effectual reformation -in their children, should begin by making a -visible amendment in themselves; and this is a duty -they owe to society, as well as to their offspring, it being -of the utmost importance to both, that probity and -honour be early instilled into their youthful minds, as -these grow with their growth, and while at the same -time they command respect, they lay the foundation of -their individual happiness through life.</p> - -<div id="ip_2" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 32em;"> - <img src="images/i_002.jpg" width="512" height="212" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">3</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_3" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_003.jpg" width="564" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE APE AND HER YOUNG ONES.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Ape having two young ones, was dotingly fond -of one, but disregarded and slighted the other. One -day she chanced to be surprized by the hunters, and -had much ado to get off. However, she did not forget -her favourite young one, which she took up in her arms, -that it might be the more secure: the other, which she -neglected, by natural instinct, leapt upon her back, and -so away they scampered together; but it unluckily fell -out, in the over-anxiety of her precipitate flight, confused -and blinded with haste, that she struck her favourite’s -head against a branch, which threw it on the -ground, where the darling bantling was seized by the -dogs and killed. The hated one, clinging close to her -rough back, escaped all the danger of the pursuit.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">4</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">By dear mamma’s o’er-weening fondness spoil’d,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Caress’d and pamper’d, dies the fav’rite child:<br /></span> -<span class="i0">The boy she slights, rough, vig’rous, and well-grown,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Unaided, bears the brunt, and shifts alone.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The indulgence which parents shew to their children -arises from the most amiable of human weaknesses; but -it is not the less injurious in its effects, and therefore -it is of great importance to guard against it, and not to -suffer a blind fondness to transport us beyond the bounds -of a discreet affection, for this often proves the ruin of -the child. This fable is also intended to expose the -folly of a system of favouritism in families, for experience -shews that those children who are the least pampered -and indulged usually make the best and cleverest -men.</p> - -<div id="ip_4" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 27em;"> - <img src="images/i_004.jpg" width="428" height="197" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">5</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_5" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_005.jpg" width="568" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BOY AND HIS MOTHER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> little Boy having stolen a book from one of his -school-fellows, took it to his Mother, who, instead of -correcting him, praised his sharpness, and rewarded him. -In process of time, as he grew bigger, he increased also -in villainy, till at length he was taken up for committing -a great robbery, and was brought to justice and condemned -for it. As the officers were conducting him to -the gallows, he was attended by a vast crowd, and -among the rest his Mother came sobbing along, and -deploring her son’s unhappy fate; which the criminal -observing, he begged leave to speak to her: this being -granted, he put his mouth to her ear, as if he was going -to whisper something, and bit it off! The officer, -shocked at this behaviour, asked him if the crimes he -had committed were not sufficient to glut his wickedness, -without being also guilty of such an unnatural<span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">6</span> -violence towards his mother? Let no one wonder, said -he, that I have done this to her, for she deserves even -worse at my hands. For if she had chastised instead of -praising and encouraging me, when I stole my school-fellow’s -book, I should not now have been brought to -this ignominious and untimely end.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> approaches to vice are by slow degrees, and the -good or evil bias given to youth is seldom eradicated. -The first deviations from sound morality should therefore -be most strictly watched, and wickedness checked -or punished in time; for when vice grows into a habit, -it becomes incurable, and both good governments and -private families are deeply concerned in its attendant -consequences. One need not scruple to affirm that -most of the depravity which is so frequent in the world, -and so pernicious to society, is owing to the bad education -of youth; and to the connivance or ill example of -their parents. It is therefore of the utmost consequence -that parents, guardians, and tutors, should be of characters -befitting them for the various and important -offices they have to perform. The latter description of -persons may and ought to be carefully selected; but it is -to be lamented that the base and mean-spirited hosts of -bad parents are out of the reach of controul, and -nothing can prevent the evils arising from their tutorage. -Perhaps it would be harsh to make laws to check the -marriages of such; but there is no need to encourage -the breed of them, for they are already over abundantly -numerous.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">7</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_7" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_007.jpg" width="565" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MASTER AND HIS SCHOLAR.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> a School-master was walking upon the bank of a -river, he heard a cry as of one in distress: advancing a -few paces farther, he saw one of his Scholars in the -water, hanging by the branch of a willow. The Boy -had, it seems, been learning to swim with corks, and -now thinking himself sufficiently experienced, had -thrown these 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 the tree 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<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">8</span> -time has given you strength and experience enough to -swim without them.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Rashness</span> is the peculiar vice of youth, and may be -stiled the characteristic foible of that season of life. -The foundation of this rashness is laid in a fond conceit -of their own abilities, which tempts them to undertake -affairs too great for their capacities, and to venture out -of their depths, or to suffer themselves to be hurried -into the most precipitate and dangerous measures, before -they find out their own weakness and inability. It -therefore behoves inexperienced young men to keep a -cautious guard over their passions, to check the irregularities -of their disposition, and to listen to the wholesome -advice and good council of those whose judgments -are matured by age and experience: for few are above -the need of advice, nor are we ever too old to learn -any thing for which we may be the better. But young -men, above all, should not disdain to open their eyes to -good example, and their ears to admonition: neither -should they be ashamed to borrow rules for their behaviour -in the world, until they are enabled from their -own knowledge of men and things, to stem its crooked -tides and currents with ease and honour to themselves.</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">Consult your elders, use their sense alone,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Till age and practice have confirm’d your own.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<div id="ip_8" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 4em;"> - <img src="images/i_008.jpg" width="64" height="84" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">9</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_9" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_009.jpg" width="565" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">INDUSTRY AND SLOTH.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> indolent Young Man being asked why he lay in -bed so long? jocosely answered, “Every morning of my -life I am hearing causes. I have two fine girls, their -names are Industry and Sloth, close at my bed-side as -soon as I awake, pressing their different suits. One -intreats me to get up, the other persuades me to lie -still; and then they alternately give me various reasons -why I should rise, and why I should not. This detains -me so long, (it being the duty of an impartial judge to -hear all that can be said on either side) that before the -pleadings are over, it is time to go to dinner.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">10</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">“He who defers his work from day to day,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Does on a river’s brink expecting stay,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">’Till the whole stream which stopt him shall be gone,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Which, as it runs, for ever will run on.”<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>Indolence is like a stream which flows slowly on, but -yet it undermines every virtue; it rusts the mind, and -gives a tincture to every action of one’s life, the term of -which does not allow time for long protracted deliberations; -and yet how many waste more of their time in -idly considering which of two affairs to begin first, than -would have ended them both? To-morrow is still the -fatal time when all is to be done; to-morrow comes, it -goes, and still indolence pleases itself with the shadow, -while it loses the substance: and thus men pass through -life like a bird through the air, and leave no track behind -them, unmindful that the present time alone is -ours, and should be managed with judicious care, since -we cannot secure a moment to come, nor recal one -that is past. It is no matter how many good qualities -the mind may be possessed of; they all lie dormant if -we want the necessary vigour and resolution to draw -them forth; for this slumber of the mind leaves no difference -between the greatest genius and the meanest -understanding. Neither the mind nor the body can be -active and vigorous without proper exertion, and trouble -springs from idleness, and grievous toil from useless -ease; therefore, “whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, -do it with all thy might, for there is no work, nor device, -nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the grave, whither -thou goest.”</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">11</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_11" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_011.jpg" width="562" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE YOUNG MAN AND THE SWALLOW.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> prodigal thoughtless young Man, who had wasted -his whole patrimony in taverns and gaming-houses, -among his lewd idle companions, was taking a melancholy -walk near a brook. It was in the spring, while -the hills were yet capped with snow, but it happened to -be one of those clear sunny days which some times occur -at that time of the year; and to make appearances -the more flattering, a Swallow which had been -invited forth by the warmth, flew skimming along upon -the surface of the water. The Youth observing this, -concluded that the summer was now come, and that he -should have little or no occasion for clothes, so went -and pawned them, and ventured the money for one -stake more, among his sharping associates. When this -too was gone, like all the rest of his property, he took<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">12</span> -another solitary walk in the same place as before, but -the weather being severe and frosty, every thing had -put on a very different aspect; the brook was frozen -over, and the poor Swallow lay dead upon the bank. -At this, the Youth, smarting under the sense of his own -misery, mistakingly reproached the Swallow as the -cause of all his misfortunes: he cried out, oh, unhappy -bird, thou hast undone both thyself and me, who was so -credulous as to trust to thy appearance.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">They</span> who frequent taverns and gaming-houses, and -keep bad company, should not wonder if they are reduced -in a very short time to penury and want. The -wretched young fellows who once addict themselves to -such a scandalous course of life, scarcely think of or attend -to any 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 reason -as other people, but like the jaundiced eye, view -every thing in a false light, and having turned a deaf -ear to all advice, and pursued their unaltered course until -all their property is irrecoverably lost, when at -length misery forces upon them a sense of their situation, -they still lay the blame upon any cause but the -right one—their own extravagance and folly; like -the Prodigal in the fable, who would not have considered -a solitary occurrence as a general indication of the -season, had not his own wicked desires blinded his -understanding.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">13</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_13" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_013.jpg" width="562" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE COLLIER AND THE FULLER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Collier and the Fuller being old acquaintances, -happened upon a time to meet together, and the latter -being but ill provided with a habitation, was invited by -the former to come and live in the same house with 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 before night.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is of no small importance in life to be cautious -what company we keep, and with whom we enter into -friendship; for though we are ever so well disposed -ourselves, and free from vice, yet if those with whom<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">14</span> -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 rocks of pleasure upon which so many -have split, 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 -our safety, if we embark in bad company; for -though our philosophy were such as would preserve us -from being tainted and infected with their manners, yet -their characters would twist and entwine themselves -along with ours, in so intricate a fold, that the world -would not take the trouble to unravel and separate -them. Reputation is of a blending nature, like water; -that which is derived from the clearest spring, if it -chance to mix with a foul current, runs on undistinguished, -in one muddy stream, and must ever partake -of the colour and condition of its associate.</p> - -<div id="ip_14" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 27em;"> - <img src="images/i_014.jpg" width="424" height="285" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">15</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_15" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_015.jpg" width="565" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HUSBANDMAN AND HIS SONS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A Husbandman,</span> at the point of death, being desirous -that his Sons should pursue the same innocent -course of agriculture in which he himself had been engaged -all his life, made use of this expedient. He -called them to his bed-side, and said: All the patrimony -I have to bequeath to you, my sons, is my farm -and my vine-yard, of which I make you joint heirs; -but I charge you not to let them go out of your own -occupation, 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 hidden: so after their father’s -death, with unwearied diligence, they carefully dug up -every inch, and though they found not the money they -expected, the ground, by being well stirred and loosened, -produced so plentiful a crop of all that was sown in -it, as proved a real, and that no inconsiderable treasure.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">16</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> good name and the good counsel of a father, -are the best legacies he can leave to his children; and -they ought to revere the one, and keep in mind the -other. The wealth which a man acquires by his honest -industry affords him greater pleasure in the enjoyment, -than when acquired in any other way; and men who -by personal labour have obtained a competency, know -its value better than those can who have had it showered -upon them without any efforts of their own. Idleness -engenders disease, while exercise is the great prop of -health, and health is the greatest blessing of life, which -consideration alone ought to stimulate men to pursue -some useful employment; and among the almost endless -number of those, to which good laws and well-organized -society give birth and encouragement, there -are none equal to the culture of the earth, none which -yield a more grateful return. The pleasures derived -both from agriculture and horticulture, are so various, so -delightful, and so natural to man, that they are not easily -to be described, and are never to be excelled: for in -whatever way they are pursued, the mind may be constantly -entertained with the wonderful œconomy of the -vegetable world; and the nerves are invigorated and -kept in proper tone by the freshness of the earth, and -the fragrancy of the air, which blush the countenance -with health, and give a relish to every meal.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">17</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_17" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_017.jpg" width="568" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE PROUD FROG AND THE OX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> 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 degree. Oh! bigger by a vast deal, say -they: and so big? says she, straining herself yet more. -Indeed, say they, if you were to burst yourself, you -would never be so big. She strove yet again, and burst -herself indeed.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">18</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p>How many vain people, of moderate easy circumstances, -by entertaining the silly ambition of vying with -their superiors in station and fortune, get into the direct -road to ruin. In whatever station of life it may have -pleased Providence to place us, we ought to determine -upon living within our income, and to endeavour by -honesty, sobriety, and industry, to maintain our ground. -Young men, upon their launching out into the world, -would do well deeply to reflect upon this, for their future -peace of mind and happiness greatly depend upon -it. They need only look a little about them to see -how a contrary conduct has operated upon thousands; -and it is to be feared, will continue to fill our gaols with -debtors, and Bedlam with lunatics.</p> - -<div id="ip_18" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 26em;"> - <img src="images/i_018.jpg" width="410" height="248" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">19</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_19" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_019.jpg" width="572" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE STAG LOOKING INTO THE WATER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Stag drinking, saw himself in the water, and -pleased with the sight, stood contemplating his shape. -Ah, says he, what a glorious pair of branching horns -are here, how gracefully do these antlers project over -my forehead, and give an agreeable turn to my whole -face; but I have such legs as really make me ashamed; -they look so very long and unsightly, that I had rather -have none at all. In the midst of this soliloquy, he -was alarmed with the cry of a pack of hounds. Away -he flies in some consternation, and bounding nimbly -over the plain, threw dogs and men at a vast distance -behind him. After which, taking a very thick copse, he -had the ill fortune to be entangled by his horns in the -branches, where he was held fast till the hounds came -up and seized him. In the pangs of death, he is said -to have uttered these words: Unhappy creature that I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">20</span> -am, I 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.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> often make a false estimate, in preferring our -ornamental talents to our useful ones, and are apt to -place our love and admiration on wrong objects. When -our vanity is stronger than our reason, show and ostentation -find easy admission into our hearts, and we are -much fonder of specious trifles than useful plainness. -But the truest mark of wisdom is to estimate things at -their just value, and to know whence the most solid -advantages may be derived: otherwise, like the Stag -in the Fable, we may happen to admire those accomplishments -which are not only of no real use, but often -prove prejudicial to us, while we despise those things -on which our safety may depend. He that does not -know himself, will often form a false judgment upon -other matters that most materially concern him; and -thus it fares with many, who suffer themselves to be -deluded with the false pomp of high life, and whose -vanity prompts them to conceive they possess talents -which qualify them to shine in that circle, into which, -had they judged rightly, they never would have entered, -but rather have applied themselves to improve -other qualifications, which might have insured their own -happiness, and have rendered them useful members of -society.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">21</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_21" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_021.jpg" width="568" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LEOPARD AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Leopard, one day, took it into his head to -value himself upon the great variety and beauty of his -spots, and truly he saw no reason why even the Lion -should take place of him, since he could not shew so -beautiful a skin. As for the rest of the wild beasts of -the forest, he treated them all without distinction in the -most haughty and disdainful manner. 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 judgment were not used to form their opinion -of merit from an outside appearance, but by considering -the good qualities and endowments with which the mind -was stored within.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">22</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Wise</span> men are chiefly captivated with the beauty of -the mind, rather than that of the person; and whenever -they are infatuated with a passion for any thing else, it -is generally observed that they cease, during that time -at least, to be what they were, and indeed are only considered -to be playing the fool. It too often happens -that women of remarkable beauty are so fully satisfied -with their outward excellencies, that they totally neglect -the improvement of their minds; not considering that it -is only a combination of mental and personal charms -that can entitle them to be ranked as Nature’s greatest -ornaments. Unmindful of this, however, they are too -apt to consider beauty as the only thing requisite in -their sex; and since they are endowed with it in such -an eminent degree, they look down with disdain on females -less happy in personal charms. Beauty has undoubtedly -great influence over the hearts of mankind, -but when it is overrun with affectation and conceit, -their admiration will soon be turned into disgust; while -women of more ordinary persons, but blessed with good -sense and good humour, will captivate the hearts of -worthy men, and more effectually secure their constancy.</p> - -<div id="ip_22" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 17em;"> - <img src="images/i_022.jpg" width="262" height="161" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">23</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_23" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_023.jpg" width="562" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE PEACOCK AND THE CRANE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Peacock and the Crane having by chance met -together, the Peacock erected his tail, displayed his -gaudy plumes, and 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 feathers -could make them so; but that he thought it a -much nobler thing to be able to rise above the clouds -into endless space, and survey the wonders of the heavens, -as well as of the earth beneath, with its seas, lakes, -and rivers, as far as the eye can reach, than to strut -about upon the ground, and be gazed at by children.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> cannot be a greater sign of a weak mind,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">24</span> -than a person’s valuing himself on a gaudy outside, -whether it consist of the beauties of the person, or the -still more contemptible vanity of fine cloaths. This -kind of misguided pride, while it endeavours to exalt, -commonly tends to lower the persons who are infected -with it; but never renders them so truly ridiculous as -when it inspires them with a contempt of those who -have ten times more worth than themselves. To value -ourselves upon the glitter and finery of dress is one of -the most trifling of all vanities; and a man of sense -would be ashamed to bestow upon it the least attention. -They who examine things by the scale of common sense, -must find something of weight and substance before they -can be persuaded to set a value upon it. The mind -that is stored with virtuous and rational sentiments, and -the behaviour which is founded upon complacency and -humility, stamp a value upon the possessor, which all -men of discernment are ever ready to admire and acknowledge.</p> - -<div id="ip_24" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 27em;"> - <img src="images/i_024.jpg" width="418" height="300" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">25</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_25" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_025.jpg" width="565" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TWO POTS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> earthen Pot, and one of brass, standing together -upon the brink of a river, were both carried away by -the sudden rise of the water. The earthen Pot shewed -some uneasiness, fearing he should be broken; but his -companion of brass bade him be under no apprehension, -as he would take care of him. Oh! replies the other, -keep as far off as you can, I entreat you: it is you I -am most afraid of; for whether the stream dash you -against me, or me against you, I am sure to be the -sufferer, and, therefore, I beg of you do not let us come -near one another.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> man of moderate fortune, who is contented with -what he has, and finds he can live happily upon it,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">26</span> -should be particularly guarded against the ill-judged -ambition of associating with the rich and powerful, for -what in them is œconomy, would in him be the height -of extravagance; and at the very time they honour him -with their countenance, they are leading him on to his -ruin. People of equal conditions may float down the -current of life without hurting each other; but it is no -easy matter to steer one’s course in company with the -great, so as to escape without a bulge: neither is it desirable -to live in the neighbourhood of a very great -man; for whether we ignorantly trespass upon him, or -he knowingly encroach upon us, we are sure to be the -sufferers.</p> - -<div id="ip_26" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_026.jpg" width="336" height="275" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">27</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_27" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_027.jpg" width="566" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MOLE AND HER DAM.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> young Mole snuffed up her nose, and told her -Dam she smelt an odd kind of a smell. Bye and bye, -O strange! says she, what a noise there is in my ears, -as if ten thousand hammers were going. A little after, -she was at it again: look, look, what is that I see yonder? -it is just like the flame of a fiery furnace. The -Dam replied, pray child hold your idle tongue; and if -you would have us allow you any sense at all, do not -affect to shew more than nature has given you.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">By</span> affectation, we aim at being thought to possess -some accomplishment which we have not, or at shewing -what we have, in a conceited ostentatious manner. -There is scarcely any species of ridiculous behaviour,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">28</span> -which is not derived from it; it grows out of folly and -insincerity; it derogates from genius; it is the bane of -beauty, and diminishes its charms; it is disagreeable to -others, and hurtful to the person who uses it; it detracts -from some real possession, and makes qualities -that would otherwise pass well enough, appear nauseous -and offensive; and whoever indulges in it, may be sure -to lay themselves open, and call forth the attention of -others to notice their vanity. To cure ourselves of -affectation, we have only to call in the aids of truth and -sincerity, which will cut off the whole train of its follies -at one stroke.</p> - -<div id="ip_28" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_028.jpg" width="445" height="334" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">29</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_29" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_029.jpg" width="556" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE GOAT, THE KID, AND THE WOLF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Goat going 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 hard by, heard the charge given, -and soon after came and knocked at the door, counterfeiting -the voice of the Goat, and desired to be admitted. -The Kid looking out at the window, and finding the -cheat, bade him go about his business, for, however he -might imitate a Goat’s voice, yet he appeared too much -like a Wolf to be trusted.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Deceit,</span> hypocrisy, and villainy, are constantly on -the watch to entrap and ensnare the innocent and the -unwary. Every beautiful woman is commonly surrounded<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">30</span> -by a kind of men who would undermine her -virtue; and inexperienced men of fortune, in the outset -of life, are almost constantly beset with rogues and -sharpers; and these artful villains, under one specious -pretext or another, too often effect the ruin of the -weak and unsuspicious of both sexes. As a guard -against all these, the early admonitions of parents are -of inestimable worth: they are built upon the tenderest -regard, and the most sincere affection. Those who -have already travelled over the difficult paths of life, -and buffeted its storms, have observed the snares and -the dangers with which the way is strewed, and they are -enabled by their experience, to forewarn those who are -about to launch out on the troubled ocean of life, to -steer their course clear of its hidden rocks, its shoals, -and its quick-sands. Did youth but know the importance -of this early advice, how eagerly would they -treasure it in their minds, and as occasion required, -with what pleasure would they draw it forth, and obey -its dictates. To the neglect of these precepts, may be -attributed much of the ill conduct we see in the world, -and most of the misfortunes which befal mankind -through life.</p> - -<div id="ip_30" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_030.jpg" width="381" height="279" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"> - -<p> -<i>Honour thy Father<br /> -and thy mother<br /> -that thy Days may be long<br /> -in the land which<br /> -The LORD thy God<br /> -giveth Thee.</i><br /> -</p></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">31</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_31" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_031.jpg" width="565" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BROTHER AND SISTER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain man had two children, a Son and a -Daughter; the Boy very handsome, and the Girl only -moderately so. They were both young, and happened -to be one day playing 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 a wanton roguish manner, observed to the Girl -how handsome he was. She resented it, and could not -bear the insolent manner in which he spoke, for she -understood it (as how could she do otherwise) to be intended -as a direct affront to her. Therefore she ran -immediately to her Father, and with a deal of aggravation, -complained of her Brother, particularly of his -having acted so effeminate a part as to look in a glass, -and meddle with things which belonged to women only. -The father embraced them both with much tenderness<span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">32</span> -and affection, and told them that he should like to have -them look in a glass every day: to the intent that you, -says he, addressing himself 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; and that -you, speaking to the girl, 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.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> should every day view ourselves considerately -in a looking-glass, with the intent of converting it to -a better purpose than that of merely observing and admiring -our persons. Let those on whom nature has -been liberal of her bounties, in bestowing a fine -countenance, with symmetry of person, health, and -strength, always remember that these are the gifts of -providence, for which we ought ever to be thankful, -but never vain: these qualifications ought only to act as -a spur to induce us to cultivate the mind, by study, by -reading, and reflection, so as to cause it to correspond -in its beauties with those of our outward appearance. -Let others again who have not any thing in their personal -appearance to attract the attention of the world, -strive also to improve the faculties of the mind, and to -excel in the beauties of a good temper, and an agreeable -conversation, the charms of which, notwithstanding -a rough exterior, cannot fail to endear the possessor to -all men of sense, who will readily discover intrinsic worth, -whether it be made up of a lively imagination, clear perceptions, -or the transparent sincerity of an honest heart.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">33</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_33" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_033.jpg" width="562" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SHEEP-BITER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Shepherd had a Dog, upon whose fidelity -he relied very much, for whenever he had occasion to -be absent himself, he committed the care of his flock -to the charge of this Dog; and to encourage him to do -his duty cheerfully, he fed him constantly with sweet -milk and curds, and sometimes threw him a bone extraordinary. -Yet, notwithstanding this, no sooner was -his back turned, than the treacherous Cur fell upon -some one of the flock, and thus devoured the sheep instead -of guarding and defending them. The Shepherd -having at length found out his tricks, 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, asking him why he was so -unmercifully bent against him, who was his own servant -and creature, and had only committed a few crimes;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">34</span> -and why he did not rather take vengeance on the Wolf -who was an open and declared enemy? Nay, replied -the Shepherd, it is for that very reason that I think -you ten times more worthy of death, for from him I -expected nothing but hostilities, and therefore could -guard against him; you I depended on as a just and -faithful servant, and fed and encouraged you accordingly, -and therefore your treachery is the more base, -and your ungratitude the more unpardonable.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> common disappointments which we are liable -to through life, do not bring with them any thing to -be compared to the bitterness we experience from the -perfidy of those we esteemed and trusted as friends: an -open enemy we can guard against, and we look upon -him when he is at rest, as we do at the sword within its -scabbard; but the man who betrays his trust, masked -under the appearance of friendship, wounds us in the -tenderest part, and involves us in a cruelly complicated -grief, which frets the mind and heightens the sum of -our infelicity. Friendship is the cordial of human life, -the balm of society; and he who violates its laws, by -treachery and deceit, converts it into the deadliest -poison, and renders that which ought to be the defence -and support of our steps, our greatest snare and -danger.</p> - -<div id="ip_34" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 12em;"> - <img src="images/i_034.jpg" width="186" height="93" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">35</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_35" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_035.jpg" width="571" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE OLD WOMAN AND HER MAIDS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Old Woman, who had several Maid Servants, -used to call them up to their work at the crowing of the -Cock. The damsels, not liking to have their sweet -slumbers disturbed so early, combined together, and -killed the Cock, thinking they might then enjoy their -warm beds a little longer. But in this they found -themselves mistaken, for the Old Woman, having lost -her unerring guide, from that time roused them out -of their beds whenever she awoke, although it might be -at midnight.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> govern our lives by imagination rather than by -judgment, mistaking the reason of things, and imputing -the issue of them to wrong causes. We should<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">36</span> -endeavour to content ourselves in our present station, -if it be not very bad indeed, for it seldom happens that -every thing can be in all respects agreeable to our -wishes. When we give full scope to the impatience of -our tempers, and quit our present condition in life, we -often find we have not changed for the better; but we -are too fond of carving out our fortunes for ourselves, -and wish to remove this or that obstacle which we imagine -stands between us and our felicity: then, too late, -we see how greatly we are mistaken in our notions, -when we feel we have changed for the worse. Before -we attempt any alteration of moment, we should, if -possible, ascertain what state it will produce, and not -suffer infirmity of temper to embitter our lives; but, -above all, we should never aim at mending our fortunes -by fraud and violence.</p> - -<div id="ip_36" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_036.jpg" width="376" height="302" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"><i>They all want <span class="strikethrough">Brains</span> Wigs</i></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">37</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_37" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_037.jpg" width="566" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">HERCULES AND THE CARTER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> a clownish Fellow was driving his cart along a -deep miry lane, the wheels stuck so fast in the clay, -that his horses could not draw it out. Upon 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 dastardly looby as he was, -but get up and whip his horses, and clap his shoulder -stoutly to the wheel, adding that this was the only way -for him to obtain assistance.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> man who sits down at his ease, and prays to -Heaven to have all his wants supplied, and his wishes -accomplished, by a miracle wrought in his favour, -without using his own exertions and honest endeavours<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">38</span> -to obtain them, deserves to be disappointed. Many -men who have a fair share of natural good sense, and -who also value themselves upon having their reasoning -powers enlightened by revelation, yet fall into this -error: led by fanatics and bigots, they follow the fashion -of running often to prayers and sermons, when -they might be much better employed at home. The industrious -good man, instead of publicly praying for the -comforts of life, pursues his business, which is the proper -means of procuring them; and if at the same time -he holds converse with his Maker, which all men ought -to do, and no man can be happy without doing, he -needs no veil of hypocrisy to make the world believe -he is better than he really is: he feels it his duty and -pleasure so to proceed, while he sojourns here, and -knows not how he can do better, than by sober and -honest industry to provide for those of his own household, -and to endeavour for the means of helping him -that needeth. The man who is virtuously and honestly -engaged, is actually serving God all the while; and is -more likely to have his silent wishes, accompanied with -strenuous endeavours, complied with by the Supreme -Being, than he who begs with an unnecessary vehemence, -and solicits with an empty hand—a hand which -would be more religious, were it usefully employed, -and more devout, were it stretched out to do good to -those that want it.</p> - -<div id="ip_38" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 11em;"> - <img src="images/i_038.jpg" width="161" height="38" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">39</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_39" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_039.jpg" width="553" height="401" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE EAGLE, THE CAT, AND THE SOW.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> 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 designing Cat: for first -of all, up she crept to the Eagle, and, Good neighbour, -says she, we shall all be undone; that filthy Sow -yonder does nothing but lie rooting at the foot of the -tree, and, as I suspect, intends 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 do -as you please; 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<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">40</span> -Sow at the bottom: putting on a sorrowful face, I hope, -says she, you do not 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 I am not sure but she -may take up with a Kitten in the mean time; so good -morrow to you, you will excuse me, I must go and -take care of the little folks at home. Away she went -accordingly, and by contriving to steal out softly at -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 to venture abroad, for fear of -the other; the consequence of which was, that they -in a little time were starved, and their young ones fell -a prey to the treacherous Cat and her Kittens.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> shews us the ill consequence of giving ear to a -gossiping double-tongued neighbour. Many sociable -well-disposed families have been blown up into a perpetual -discord, by one of these wicked go-betweens; so -that whoever would avoid the imputation of being a -bad neighbour, should guard both against receiving ill -impressions by hearsay, and uttering his opinions of -others, to those busy bodies, who, to gratify a malignant -disposition, or gain some selfish end of their own, -can magnify a gnat to the size of a camel, or swell a -mole-hill to a mountain.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">41</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_41" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_041.jpg" width="567" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LARK AND HER YOUNG ONES.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Lark who had Young Ones in a field of corn -nearly ripe, was under some fear lest the reapers -should come and cut it down before her young brood -were fledged, and able to remove from the place; -wherefore, when she flew abroad in the morning to -seek for food for them, she charged them to listen to -what the Farmer said about shearing. On her return, -her young family opened all their little throats at once, -to inform her that the Farmer had sent to his neighbours -to reap the corn the next morning. Is that all? -said the old Lark, then there is no danger. When -she went abroad again the next morning, she left the -same instructions as before. At night, she found her -Young Ones more alarmed than at first; for the Farmer -had applied to his friends, earnestly requesting them -to begin the harvest the next day. She received this<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">42</span> -intelligence as calmly as before, and took no other -precautions the next day, than repeating the same orders. -In the evening, they told her that the Farmer -had been charging his son to get the sickles ready, for -it was in vain to wait for other people, and that they -would cut the corn to-morrow themselves. Nay, then -said the old Lark, we must be off as soon as we can; for -when a man undertakes to do his business himself, it is -not so likely that he will be disappointed.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">He</span> who depends on the assistance of others to perform -what he is able to do himself, must not be surprised -to find that his business is neglected. He may -be sure that it will be best done when he puts forth his -own hands, and looks after it with his own eyes. How -indeed can any man imagine, that other people will be -active in his interest, while he himself remains indolent -and unconcerned about his own affairs. Men of such -tempers and dispositions, live in a state of suspense, -and subject themselves to perpetual disappointments -and losses, which their own industry would have prevented, -and have kept their minds at ease. They do -not use their reasoning powers, but sink down into a -kind of stupid abject dependence upon others, which -degrades even the finest talents with which human -nature is dignified.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">43</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_43" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_043.jpg" width="569" height="411" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE YOUNG MEN AND THE COOK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Two</span> Young Men went into a Cook’s shop, under -pretence of buying some 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 clapt it under -his cloak. The Cook turning about, 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 not taken it. -Why, look ye, gentlemen, says the Cook, I see your -equivocation; and though I cannot tell which of you -has taken my meat, I am sure between you there is a -thief.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> fable shews how little reliance can be placed -on either the word or the oath of those who, like the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">44</span> -thieves in the cook’s shop, have neither honour nor -honesty. An honest man’s word is as good as his -oath; and so is a rogue’s too: for he that will cheat -and lie, will not scruple to forswear himself. The -former needs no oath to bind him; and the latter, -though he swear in the most solemn manner that can -be invented, only deceives you the more certainly, as -he who scruples not to steal, will never regard the -heinous guilt of calling upon the Supreme Being to -witness his atrocity. It is no less wicked to quibble -and evade the truth, than it is to deny it altogether, -for the falsehood consists in what we wish the hearer -to believe, not in the literal import of what we say. -Men who habituate themselves to this species of deceit, -will soon be ready to go the length of any perjury. -Early to impress the mind with the unspeakable worth -of truth, is of the utmost importance. It is sacred, -and no man can say in the face of the world, that it -ought not to prevail. No discussions can injure its -cause—it emanates from heaven—it is an attribute of -omnipotence, and is therefore eternal.</p> - -<div id="ip_44" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_044.jpg" width="339" height="195" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">45</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_45" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_045.jpg" width="566" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MULE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Mule, which was pampered up and easily worked, -became plump, sleek, and in high condition, and in -the height of his wantonness, would scamper about -from hill to dale in all the wildness of unbridled restraint. -Why should not I, said he to himself, be as -good a racer as any horse whatever? My father, -whose pedigree was well known, was one of the best -of them; do not I resemble him in every respect? -While he was indulging his vanity in reveries of -this kind, his master having occasion to mount him -upon urgent business, put him upon his speed, and, -ere long, was obliged to use both whip and spur to -force him to push forward. Thus jaded and tired, -he muttered to himself, Alas! I find now, I was mistaken -in my pedigree, for my sire was not a Horse, -but an Ass.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">46</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> man who has been brought up in ease and -affluence, and pampered and anticipated in all his -wants, little imagines what a figure he would make in -the world, were his supplies cut off, and he were put -to the trial to rub through its thorny mazes, and provide -for himself. The children of the poor industrious -honest man, when brought up like their parents, are -put to a kind of school, such as the opulent it is feared -can seldom form any conception of; and if the former, -by their industry and abilities, rise above poverty, their -enjoyments in life commonly surpass those who have -been, without effort, upheld in every real as well as -imaginary want. The sensible poor man does not -trouble his head about his pedigree, but he knows that -his descent must of course be as ancient as that of any -man on earth; and that if he is respected in the world, -it must arise solely from his own good conduct and -merit. The man who has nothing to boast but the -merely tracing back his ancestry, is building upon a -hollow foundation. If indeed his ancestry have arisen -to their high station by patriotic and virtuous means, -and have deservedly maintained a high character for -probity, worth, and honour, let him follow their example: -if otherwise, all he can do or say will only -prove him to be a mongrel, or an ass.</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">“The pride of family is all a cheat,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">“’Tis personal merit only makes us great.”<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">47</span></p> - -<div id="ip_47" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_047.jpg" width="564" height="397" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE COCK AND THE JEWEL.</h2> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> gallant young Cock, in company with his mistresses, -raking upon a dung-hill for something to entertain -them with, happened to scratch up a Jewel. -He knew what it was well enough, for it sparkled with -an exceeding bright lustre; but not knowing what to -do with it, he shrugged up his wings, shook his head, -and putting on a grimace, expressed himself to this -purpose: Indeed, you are a very fine thing; but I -know not any business you have here. I make no -scruple of declaring, that my taste lies quite another -way; and I had rather have one grain of dear, delicious -barley, than all the Jewels under the sun.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Moralists</span> have interpreted this Fable in various<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">48</span> -ways, some of them ascribing the want of setting a -proper value upon the Jewel, to ignorance, and <span class="locked">say:—</span></p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">“To fools, the treasures dug from wisdom’s mine<br /></span> -<span class="i0">“Are Jewels thrown to Cocks, and Pearls to Swine.”<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p class="in0">But the most obvious meaning of the Fable is surely -to shew, that men who weigh well their own real -wants, and shape their pursuits to their abilities, will -always prefer those things which are necessary, to such -as are merely ornamental or superfluous, and will not -easily suffer themselves to be led astray by the gaudy -allurements of glitter and show, which have no other -value than what vanity, pride, or luxury may have set -upon them; but governing their minds by their own -reason, judge of every thing by its intrinsic worth.</p> - -<div id="ip_48" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 30em;"> - <img src="images/i_048.jpg" width="480" height="307" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">49</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_49" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_049.jpg" width="569" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">MERCURY AND THE WOODMAN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Man was felling a tree on the steep bank of a -river, and by chance let slip his hatchet, which dropt -into the water, and sunk to the bottom. Being in distress -for want of his tool, he sat down and bemoaned -himself on the occasion. 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, shewed the Man a golden hatchet, demanding -if 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 it was not his: he dived a third time, and fetched -up the individual hatchet the Man had lost; upon -sight of which the poor fellow was overjoyed, and took -it with all humility and thankfulness. Mercury was -so pleased with his honesty, that he gave him the other<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">50</span> -into the bargain, as a reward for his just dealing. -Away goes the Man to his companions, 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 to weeping and lamenting as if -he had been really and sorely afflicted. Mercury appeared -as before, and diving, brought him up a golden -hatchet, asking if that were the hatchet he had 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 him -that, but would not so much as let him have his own -again.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Honesty</span> is the best policy; and one of our best -poets has further stamped a value upon the good old -maxim, by his assertion that “an honest man is the -noblest work of God.” The paths of truth and integrity -are so plain, direct, and easy, that the man -who pursues them, stands in no need of subtle contrivances -to deceive the world. He listens to the -honest monitor within, and makes good his professions -with his practice: neither gold nor silver hatchets -can make him deviate from it; and whatever situation -he may be placed in, he is sure to meet the esteem of -all men within the circle in which he moves, and has -besides the constant pleasure of feeling self-approbation -within his own breast.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">51</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_51" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_051.jpg" width="571" height="411" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE VIZOR MASK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox being in a shop where Vizor Masks were -sold, laid his foot upon one of them, and considering -it awhile attentively, at last broke out into this exclamation: -Bless me! says he, what a handsome goodly -figure this makes! what a pity it is that it should want -brains!</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">The accomplished beau in air and mein how blest,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">His hat well fashioned, and his hair well drest,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Is yet undrest within: to give him brains<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Exceeds his hatter’s or his barber’s pains.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is levelled at that numerous part of mankind, -who, out of their own ample fortunes take care<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">52</span> -to accomplish themselves in every thing but common -sense, and seem not even to bestow a thought upon the -important consequences of cultivating their understandings. -The smooth address and plausible behaviour of -the varnished fop may indeed pass current with the -ignorant and superficial, but however much he may -value himself upon his birth or figure, he never fails -exciting the contempt or the pity of men of sagacity -and penetration, and the ridicule of those who are disposed -to amuse themselves at the folly and vanity of -such as put on the mask of wisdom to cover their want -of brains.</p> - -<div id="ip_52" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 25em;"> - <img src="images/i_052.jpg" width="398" height="363" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">53</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_53" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_053.jpg" width="542" height="412" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE THIEF AND THE DOG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Thief coming to rob a certain house in the night, -was thwarted in his attempts by a fierce vigilant 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 suspected him to -be a bad man, but now upon his offering to bribe him, -his suspicions were fully confirmed; and that as he was -entrusted with the guardianship of his master’s house, -he would never cease barking while such a rogue was -lurking about it.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Nothing</span> can alter the honest purpose of him whose -mind is embued with good principles. He will despise<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">54</span> -an insidious bribe, and the greater the offer which is -designed to buy his silence, the louder and more indignantly -will he open out against the miscreant who -would thus practise upon him. He knows that the -favours held out to him are not marks of the love and -regard of him who would confer them, but are meant -as the price at which he is to sell his honour and his -virtue. With a mind unpolluted, his noble resolution -never fails to produce the happiest consequences, by -preserving his friends and himself from the mischievous -projects laid against them. So true it is, that virtue -is its own reward; while corruption and venality are -sure in the end to bring the greatest miseries on those, -and their adherents, who are so base, or perhaps inconsiderate, -as to subject themselves to future evils of -the most fatal nature, for the sake of a little present -profit.</p> - -<div id="ip_54" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 29em;"> - <img src="images/i_054.jpg" width="464" height="284" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">55</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_55" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_055.jpg" width="565" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MAN AND HIS GOOSE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Man had a Goose, which laid him a -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 belly, that -by so doing he might come at the inexhaustible treasure -which he fancied she had within her. He did so, -and to his great sorrow and disappointment, found -nothing.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">No</span> passion can be a greater torment to those who -are led by it, or more frequently mistakes its aim, than -insatiable covetousness. It makes men blind to their -present happiness, and conjures up ideal prospects of -increasing felicity, which often tempt its deluded votaries -to their ruin. Men who give themselves up to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">56</span> -this propensity, know not how to be contented with -the constant and continued sufficiency with which -Providence may have blessed them: their minds are -haunted with the prospect of becoming rich, and their -impatient craving tempers are perpetually prompting -them to try to obtain their object all at once. They -lose all present enjoyment in remotely contemplating -the future; and while they are shewing by their conduct -how insensible they are to the bounty of Providence, -they are at the same time laying the foundation -of their own unhappiness.</p> - -<div id="ip_56" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 31em;"> - <img src="images/i_056.jpg" width="481" height="275" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">57</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_57" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_057.jpg" width="558" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE WANTON CALF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Calf, which had been some time fattening in a -rich pasture, full of wantonness and arrogance, could -not forbear insulting an old Ox every time he saw -him at the plough. What a sorry drudge art thou, -says he, to bear that heavy yoke, and draw all day a -plough at thy tail! See, what a fat, sleek, and comely -appearance I make, and what a life of ease I lead: -I go where I please, and frisk about in the sunshine, -or lie down under the cool shade, just as my own fancy -prompts me. The Ox, not moved by this insolence, -made no reply, but pursued his daily round of alternate -labour and rest, until he saw the Calf taken and -delivered to a priest, who immediately led him to the -altar, and prepared to sacrifice him. When the fatal -knife was just at his throat, the Ox drew near, and -whispered him to this purpose: see what your wanton<span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">58</span> -and lazy life has brought you to, a premature and -painful death.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> may learn by this Fable the general consequence -of an idle life, and how well rewarded laborious -diligent men are in the end, when they quietly -enjoy the fruits of their industry. They who by little -tricks and chicanery, or by open violence and robbery, -are enabled to live in a high expensive way, often despise -the poor honest man, who is contented with the -humble produce of his daily labour. But how often -is the poor man comforted, by seeing these wanton -villains led in disgrace and misery 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 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 inevitable tendency to shorten a -man’s days, are very apt to engage their besotted -votaries in a debauched life, not only prejudicial to -their health, but which engenders in them a contempt -for those 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 temperate and the -active drink sober draughts of life, and spin out the -thread of their existence to the most desirable length.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">59</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_59" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_059.jpg" width="563" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BOASTING TRAVELLER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">One</span> who had been abroad, was giving an account -of his travels, and among other places, said he had -been at Rhodes, where he had distinguished himself -so much in leaping, an exercise which that city was -famous for, that not a 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 told -him he need not give himself so much trouble about -it, since he would put him in a way to demonstrate -the 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.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">60</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> had better be contented to keep our exploits -to ourselves, than to appear ridiculous by attempting -to force a belief of that which is improbable; and travelled -gentlemen should have a care how they import -falsehoods and inventions of their own from foreign -parts, and attempt to vend them at home for staple -truths. It cannot be too strongly impressed upon -the mind, that a lie is upon all occasions degrading -to the person who utters it, and should be most scrupulously -avoided, not only on account of its baseness, -but because it is impossible to foresee in how many -troubles it may involve him who passes it off. It will -not always receive credit, and is ever liable to detection. -When it is calculated for wicked purposes, it -will deservedly incur punishment; and when it is of a -harmless or insignificant nature, it will even then often -expose its author to contempt and ridicule; and vanity -never mistakes its end more grossly, than when it -attempts to aggrandize itself at the expence of truth.</p> - -<div id="ip_60" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_060.jpg" width="370" height="264" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">61</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_61" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_061.jpg" width="554" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SHEPHERD’S BOY AND THE WOLF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Shepherd’s Boy, while attending his flock, used -frequently to divert himself by crying out, “the -Wolf! the Wolf!” The Husbandmen in the adjoining -grounds, thus alarmed, left their work and -ran to his assistance, but finding that he was only -sporting with their feelings, and bantering them, they -resolved at last to take no notice of his alarms. It -was not long, however, before the Wolf really came, -and the Boy bawled out “the Wolf! the Wolf!” as -he had done before; but the men having been so often -deceived, paid no attention to his cries, and the sheep -were devoured without mercy.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> man who would go through the world with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">62</span> -reputation and success, must preserve a religious adherence -to truth: for no talents or industry can give -him weight with others, or induce the sensible part -of mankind to place any confidence in him, if he be -known to deviate without scruple from veracity. Men -of this stamp soon become notorious; and besides the -ignominy which attaches to their characters, they have -to undergo the mortification of not being believed even -when they do speak the truth. Whatever misfortune -may befal them, and however sincere they may be in -making known their distress, yet, like the boy in the -Fable, their complaints and most earnest asseverations -cannot procure them credit, and are received at best -with doubt and suspicion. The same consequences -follow falsehood and deception, whether practised by -individuals or public governors, and they will both -find in the end that they have been guided by cunning, -and not by wisdom: for although the ignorant part -of mankind may, to serve the temporary purposes of -a bad government, be acted upon by false alarms of -imaginary dangers, yet even these in time will see -through the stale tricks and artifices of those whose -designs are to gull and impose upon them.</p> - -<div id="ip_62" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 27em;"> - <img src="images/i_062.jpg" width="417" height="251" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"> - -<p> -This Stone (like many<br /> -10000000 of Men in the World)<br /> -has held up its bare<br /> -useless head for many<br /> -Centuries past.<br /> -</p></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">63</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_63" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_063.jpg" width="540" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE CROW AND THE PITCHER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Crow, ready to die with thirst, flew with joy to -a Pitcher which he beheld at some distance. When -he came, he found water in it, indeed, but so near the -bottom, that with all his stooping and straining, he -was not able to reach it. He then endeavoured to -overturn the Pitcher, that at least he might be able -to get a little of it; but his strength was not sufficient -for the accomplishment of this purpose. At last seeing -some pebbles lie near the place, he cast them one by -one into the Pitcher, and thus, by degrees, raised the -water up to the very brim, and satisfied his thirst.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">What</span> we cannot accomplish by strength, we may -by ingenuity and industry. A man of sagacity and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">64</span> -penetration, upon meeting with a few difficulties, does -not drop his pursuits, but if he cannot succeed in one -way, sets his mind to work upon another, and does -not hesitate about stepping out of the old beaten track -which had been thoughtlessly pursued in a roundabout -way by thousands before him. The present state of -the world, enlightened by arts and sciences, is a proof -that difficulties seemingly unsurmountable, and undertakings -once imagined to be impossible, have been -accomplished; and this ought to be kept in mind as a -spur to continued exertion: for we are not acquainted -with the strength of our own minds till we exercise -them, nor to what length our abilities will carry us, -till we put them to the trial.</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">“What is discovered only serves to shew,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">That nothing’s known to what is yet to know.”<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The man who enriches the present fund of knowledge -with some new and useful improvement, does an -honour to himself, and ought invariably to be rewarded -by the public: for, like a happy adventurer -by sea, he discovers as it were an unknown land, and -imports an additional treasure to his own country.</p> - -<div id="ip_64" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 16em;"> - <img src="images/i_064.jpg" width="249" height="188" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">65</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_65" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_065.jpg" width="566" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE PARTRIDGE AND THE COCKS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Man having caught a Partridge, plucked the -feathers out of one of its wings, and turned it into a -little yard where he kept Game Cocks. The Cocks -led the poor bird a sad life, continually pecking at -and driving it away from the meat. This treatment -was taken the more unkindly, because offered to a -stranger; and the Partridge could not help concluding -that they were the most uncivil inhospitable people -he had ever met with. But observing how very frequently -they quarrelled and fought with each other, -he comforted himself with reflecting, that it was no -wonder they were so cruel to him, since they shewed -the same disposition to each other.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">66</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">No</span> peace is to be expected among those who are -naturally fierce, quarrelsome, and inhospitable; and -people of a different disposition should avoid, as much -as possible, having any thing to do with them. But -when we cannot help coming into contact with such -characters, there is no remedy but patience; and this -virtue a wise man will call to his aid under every misfortune. -When our sufferings are inflicted by the -wickedness of others, it is some consolation to reflect, -that people of this character are continually waging -war among themselves, and punishing each other; and -that the consequences of their own wickedness follow -them like their shadow, besides rendering them the -objects of general aversion. No virtue was more universally -practised, or more strongly recommended, by -the ancients, than a mild conduct to our companions, -and an hospitable entertainment of strangers; and -when this is not the general character of any people, -it shews, in greater or less degrees, the wretched state -of society in which they live.</p> - -<div id="ip_66" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 32em;"> - <img src="images/i_066.jpg" width="504" height="220" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">67</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_67" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_067.jpg" width="563" height="389" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE CROW.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Crow having taken a piece of meat out of a -cottage window, flew up into a tree with it; which a -Fox observing, came underneath, and began to compliment -the Crow upon her beauty. I protest, says -he, your feathers are of a more delicate white than -I ever 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 be but as fine -as your complexion, I do not know a bird that can -stand in competition with you. The Crow, tickled -with this very civil language, wriggled about, and -hardly knew where she was; and having a mind to -convince the Fox in the matter of her voice, attempted -to sing, and in the same instant let the meat drop out -of her mouth. This being what the Fox wanted, he<span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">68</span> -chopped it up in a moment, and trotted away, laughing -at the easy credulity of the Crow.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">“It is a maxim in the schools,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">That flattery is the food of fools.”<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">They</span> that love flattery will have cause to repent -of their foible in the long run; and yet how few there -are among the whole race of mankind, who are proof -against its attacks. The gross way in which it is managed -by some silly practitioners, is enough to alarm -the dullest apprehension; but let the ambuscade be -disposed with judgment, and it will scarcely fail of -seizing the most guarded heart. How many are tickled -to the last degree with the pleasure of flattery, even -while they are applauded for their honest detestation -of it. There is no way to baffle the force of this engine, -but by every one’s examining impartially for -himself, the true estimate of his own qualities. If he -deal sincerely in the matter, nobody can tell so well -as himself, what degree of esteem ought to attend any -of his actions; and therefore he should be entirely -easy as to the opinion others have of them. If they -attribute more to him than is his due, they are either -designing, or mistaken; if they allow him less, they -are envious, or possibly still mistaken; and in either -case are to be despised or disregarded: for he that -flatters without designing to make advantage of it, is a -fool; and whoever encourages that flattery which he -has sense enough to see through, is a vain coxcomb.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">69</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_69" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_069.jpg" width="567" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SENSIBLE ASS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> old Man who was feeding his Ass in a fine -green meadow, being alarmed by the sudden approach -of an enemy, began urging the Ass to put himself forward, -and fly with all the speed he was able. The -Ass asked him whether he thought the enemy would -clap two pair of panniers upon his back? The Man -said, No, there was no fear of that. Why then, says -the Ass, I will not stir an inch, for what is it to me -who my master is, since I shall but carry my panniers -as usual.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable shews us how much in the wrong the -poorer sort of people most commonly are, when they<span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">70</span> -are under any concern about the revolutions of a government. -All the alteration which they can feel, is -perhaps in the name of their sovereign, or some such -important 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 artifices of a few mistaken or designing men, -to foment factions, and raise rebellions, in cases where -they can get nothing by success; but if they miscarry, -are in danger of suffering an ignominious and untimely -end.</p> - -<div id="ip_70" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_070.jpg" width="340" height="431" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">71</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_71" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_071.jpg" width="568" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SWALLOW AND OTHER BIRDS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Swallow, observing a Farmer sowing his field -with flax, called the Birds together, and informed them -what he was about. She told them that flax was the -material of which the thread was made that composed -the fowler’s nets, so fatal to the feathered race, and -strongly advised them to assist her in picking up the -seed, and destroying it. The Birds heard her with -indifference, and gave themselves no trouble about the -matter. In a little time 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 grew any -farther. But they still slighted her warnings, and the -flax grew up into stalk. She again urged them to -attack it, for it was not yet too late; but they only -ridiculed her for a silly pretending prophet. The<span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">72</span> -Swallow, finding all her remonstrances availed nothing, -was resolved to leave the society of such careless -unthinking creatures, before it was too late: so quitting -the woods, she repaired to the houses; and, forsaking -the conversation of the Birds, has ever since -taken up her abode among the dwellings of men.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Wise</span> men read effects in their causes, and profit -by them; but their advice is thrown away when given -to the arrogant and self-conceited, who are too proud -to listen to it. It is equally lost upon fools, who stupidly -or obstinately shut their eyes against impending -danger, till it is too late to prevent it. In both cases, -those who have no foresight of their own, and those -who despise the wholesome admonitions of their friends, -deserve to suffer from the misfortunes which their -own obstinacy, folly, or negligence, brings upon their -heads. A great portion of mankind, from an overweening -conceit of their own abilities, are unwilling -to be advised by any one, and through this stubborn -disposition, deprive themselves of the aids of friendship, -and the benefits which the good-will of their -more sensible neighbours would have conferred on -them with pleasure.</p> - -<div id="ip_72" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 18em;"> - <img src="images/i_072.jpg" width="284" height="180" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">73</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_73" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_073.jpg" width="562" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE THIEVES AND THE COCK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Two</span> Thieves broke into a house with a design to -rob it; but when they had pried into every corner, -found nothing worth taking away but a Cock, which -they seized upon and carried off. When they were -about to kill him, he begged very hard that they -would spare his life, putting them in mind how useful -he was to mankind, by crowing and calling them up -betimes to their work. You villain, replied they, it -is for that very reason we will wring your head off; -for you alarm and keep the people waking, so that -we cannot rob in quiet for you.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> same thing which recommends us to the esteem -of good people, will make those that are bad have nothing -but hatred and ill-will towards us; for every man<span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">74</span> -who has engaged himself in a vicious or wicked course -of life, fiend-like, makes himself, as it were, the natural -adversary of virtue. It is in vain for innocent -men, under oppression, to complain to those who are -the occasion 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 -suspected. The moral, 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; for their disposition is such, that they will -do mischief to others as soon as they have the opportunity. -When vice flourishes, and is in power, were -it possible for a good man to live quietly in its neighbourhood, -and preserve his integrity, it might be sometimes -perhaps 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 -methods to free themselves from the power and society -of the former.</p> - -<div id="ip_74" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_074.jpg" width="341" height="211" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">75</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_75" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_075.jpg" width="570" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE WOLVES AND THE SICK ASS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Ass being sick, the report was spread abroad in -the country, and some did not scruple to say, that she -would die before another night went over her head. -Upon this, several Wolves went to the stable where -she lay, under pretence of making her a visit; but -rapping at the door, and asking how she did, the -young Ass came out, and told them that his mother -was much better than they desired.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">If</span> the kind enquiries after the sick were all to be -interpreted with as much frankness as those in the -Fable, the porters of the great might commonly answer -with the strictest propriety, that their masters -were much better than was wished or desired. The<span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">76</span> -charitable visits which are made to many sick people, -proceed from much the same motive with that which -induced the hungry Wolves to make their enquiries -after the sick Ass, namely, that they may come in for -some share of their remains, and feast themselves upon -the reversion of their goods and chattels. The sick -man’s heir longs for his estate; one friend waits in -anxious expectation of a legacy, and another wants -his place; it, however, does not unfrequently happen, -that the mask of these selfish visitants, and their counterfeit -sorrow, are seen through, and their impertinent -officiousness treated with the contempt it so justly deserves.</p> - -<div id="ip_76" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 33em;"> - <img src="images/i_076.jpg" width="516" height="361" alt="" /> - <div class="caption">’Tis <span class="strikethrough">the</span> a world! floating about, like -an illumined mote, in the immensity -of endless space—and is inhabited -by nations of proud pismires.—</div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">77</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_77" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_077.jpg" width="568" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DOG IN THE MANGER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Dog was lying upon a stall full of hay. An -Ox, being hungry, came near, and offered to eat of -the hay; but the ill-natured Cur getting up and snarling -at him, would not suffer him to touch it. Upon -which the Ox, in the bitterness of his heart, said, -A curse light on thee for a malicious wretch, who will -neither eat hay thyself, nor suffer others to do it.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> are men in the world of so snarling, malevolent, -and ill-natured a disposition, that they will -even punish themselves, rather than put forth a finger -to serve any one. It gives them a malignant kind of -pleasure to have it in their power to cause trouble and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">78</span> -vexation to others, whenever they have an opportunity -of doing so; and could they have their will, they -would shut out the light and warmth of the sun, and -suffer the fruits of the earth to rot upon it, provided -they could see those about them unhappy; and in thus -taking delight in other people’s miseries, it of course -follows that they are their own tormentors. These -characters, in common life, are diabolical and detestable; -but the evils they inflict, are only like a drop to -the ocean, when compared to those which men of the -same stamp shed abroad in the world, when, in an -evil hour, they happen to be exalted to govern the -affairs of a nation. Then, indeed, their baleful influence -is felt in every direction: they may be termed -fiends in human shape; for, as far as they are able, -they thwart the benevolent intentions of Omnipotence, -and the very breath of their nostrils seems to blast -the happiness of mankind.</p> - -<div id="ip_78" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 33em;"> - <img src="images/i_078.jpg" width="523" height="275" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">79</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_79" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_079.jpg" width="564" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">JUPITER AND THE ASS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Ass which had been some time in the service of -a Gardener, and carried his vegetables to market, became -tired of his place, and petitioned Jupiter that -he would permit him to enter upon the service of a -neighbouring Potter. Jupiter granted his request. -He here, however, soon found that the latter loaded -him with heavier burthens, and kept him on poorer -fare than he had been used to before. He again prayed -to Jupiter to grant that he might be allowed to -better his condition by engaging himself to a Tanner. -Jupiter again heard his prayer; but here he soon found -he had changed for the worse: for, besides being hard -worked, he was also often cruelly treated; and seeing -what was going on in this place, he could not forbear -upbraiding himself with his folly and inconstancy. Oh, -tofo that I was! said he to himself, for leaving my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">80</span> -former mild master, to become the servant of one, -who, after working me to death, will not spare my -very hide after I am dead.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> man that carries about with him the plague -of a restless mind, can never be pleased; he is ever -shifting and changing, and is in truth not so weary -of his condition as of himself. Seldom or never contented -with his lot, he is ever hunting after happiness -where it is not to be found, without ever looking for -it where it is. He indulges in the strange propensity -of his nature, which leads him to suppose that his own -lot is the most miserable, and therefore concludes that -any change he can make must be for the better. He -loses sight of the virtues of patience, constancy, and -resignation, and seems not to know that every station -in life has its real or imaginary inconveniences; and -that it is better to bear with those which we are accustomed -to endure, and of which we know the utmost -extent, than by aiming at the seeming advantages of -another way of life, to subject ourselves to all its hidden -miseries.</p> - -<div id="ip_80" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img src="images/i_080.jpg" width="319" height="220" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">81</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_81" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_081.jpg" width="567" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">ÆSOP AND THE IMPERTINENT FELLOW.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Æsop</span> having occasion to go out to seek a light to -kindle his fire, went from house to house for some -time before he could succeed; but having at last got -what he wanted, he posted back in haste with his lighted -candle in his hand. An impudent Fellow, leaving -his companions, caught hold of Æsop by the sleeve, -and would fain have shewn off his wit, and been arch -upon him. Hey day! oh, rare Æsop! says he, -what occasion for a candle, old boy! what, are you -going to light the sun to bed? Let me alone, says -Æsop, for with it I am looking for an honest man.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is plain that our old philosopher in the Fable -did not take the impertinent fellow for an honest man,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">82</span> -and he gave him to understand that it required a good -light to find out one who fully came up to that character; -and he might have added, that the world very -much abounded with ignorant and impudent ones, -who, with their empty nonsense, which they call wit, -often unseasonably interrupt men of thought and business: -for to those whose minds are wholly intent upon -matters of importance, nothing is so offensive as the -intrusion of a fool. Men of eminent parts and great -natural abilities, make their appearance in the world -only now and then. These qualifications are the gift -of Providence, and seem to be intended to throw fresh -lights on the understandings of mankind; but in all the -gradations from these downwards, it is in the power -of every one to improve their manners, and integrity -is within the reach of those of the meanest capacity, if -they will endeavour to amend their lives, and take it -for their guide.</p> - -<div id="ip_82" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_082.jpg" width="441" height="254" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">83</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_83" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_083.jpg" width="568" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FORESTER AND THE LION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Forester meeting with the Lion one day, they -discoursed together for a while without much differing -in opinion. At last, a dispute happening to arise -about the point of superiority between a Man and a -Lion, the former wanting a better argument, shewed -the latter a marble monument, on which was placed -the statue of a Man striding over a vanquished Lion. -If this, says the Lion, is all you have to say for it, let -us be the sculptors, and we will make the Lion striding -over the Man.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Such</span> is the partiality of mankind in favour of -themselves and their own actions, that it is extremely<span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">84</span> -difficult, nay almost impossible to come at any certainty, -by reading the accounts that are written on -one side only. The simple truth is still perverted, as -prejudice, vanity, or interest warps the mind, and it -is not discovered in all its brilliancy, till the mists -which obscure it are swept away by the most rigid investigation. -In what an odious light would our party -men place each other, if the transactions of the times -were handed down to posterity by a warm zealot on -either side; and were such records to survive a few -centuries, with what perplexities and difficulties would -they embarrass the historian, as by turns he consulted -them for the character of his great forefathers. The -same difficulties would occur in writing the history of -nations, both ancient and modern. Some of those -who flourish at this day, and consider themselves as -having reached perfection in civilization and polished -manners, will perhaps, not unjustly, be branded in -after-times with cruelty, injustice, and oppression, in -having confounded all simplicity of manners, and disturbed -the peace of whole nations, by carrying the -horrors of war, of murder, and desolation, into regions -formerly blessed with uninterrupted tranquillity.</p> - -<div id="ip_84" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 19em;"> - <img src="images/i_084.jpg" width="300" height="176" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">85</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_85" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_085.jpg" width="568" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE WOLF, THE FOX, AND THE APE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Wolf indicted the Fox for felony before the -Ape, who upon that occasion was appointed special -judge of the cause. The Fox gave in his answer to -the Wolf’s accusation, and denied the fact. After -hearing both sides, the Ape, penetrating the character -of the parties, 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 question but you at least have stolen -what is laid to your charge. And thus the court was -dismissed with this public censure upon each party.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Well</span> may both judge and jury, in the outset of -trial, be puzzled to decide between and do justice to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">86</span> -men whose quarrels are made up of baseness and villainy, -and carried on with mutual treachery, fraud, -and violence, and whose witnesses are perhaps of the -same character with themselves. Each party may -justly enough accuse the other, though neither of them -are worthy of belief, and deserve even no credit for -the imputations with which they asperse each other’s -characters. But such men need not hope long to deceive -the world: a penetrating judge and an honest -jury will, upon sifting the matter, clearly see what -kind of men they have been occupying their attention -with, and shew a proper disgust at the wicked impudence -of both plaintiff and defendant.</p> - -<div id="ip_86" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 27em;"> - <img src="images/i_086.jpg" width="427" height="283" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">87</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_87" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_087.jpg" width="567" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BALD KNIGHT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Knight growing old, his hair fell off, -and he became bald; to hide which imperfection he -wore a periwig. But as he was riding out with some -others a hunting, a sudden gust of wind blew off the -periwig, and exposed his bald pate. The company -could not forbear laughing at the accident; and he -himself laughed as loud as any body, saying, how was -it to be expected that I could keep strange hair upon -my head, when my own would not stay there?</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> is no disposition, or turn of mind, which -on many occasions contributes more to keep us easy, -than that which enables us to rally any of our failings, -or joke upon our own infirmities: this blunts the edge,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">88</span> -and baffles and turns aside the malignant sneers of -little wits, and the ill nature and ridicule of others. -If we should at any time happen to incur the laughter -of those about us, we cannot stifle it sooner or better -than by receiving it all with a cheerful look, and by an -ingenuous and pleasant remark, parry the jest which -another is ready to throw out at our expence. To -appear fretted or nettled, only serves to gratify the -wishes of those who take a secret pleasure in seeing -such an effect produced; and, besides, a testy or captious -temper is a source of perpetual disquietude, both -to ourselves and our acquaintances, and like a little -leaven, sours the whole mass of our good qualities. If -we had no other imperfections, this of itself would be -sufficient to cause our company to be shunned.</p> - -<div id="ip_88" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 23em;"> - <img src="images/i_088.jpg" width="361" height="307" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">89</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_89" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_089.jpg" width="564" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LION AND THE FOUR BULLS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Four</span> Bulls, who 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, knowing they -would have been too powerful for him, and therefore -was obliged to keep himself at a distance. At -last, perceiving that no attempt was to be made upon -them as long as their combination lasted, he artfully -contrived, by the whispers and hints of his emissaries, -to foment jealousies, and raise divisions among them. -This stratagem succeeded so well, that the Bulls grew -cold and reserved to one another, which soon after ripened -into a downright hatred and aversion, and at -last ended in a total separation. The Lion had now<span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">90</span> -attained his ends; and though it had been impossible -for him to hurt them while they were united, he found -no difficulty, now they were parted, to seize and devour -every Bull of them, one after another.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Since</span> friendships and alliances are of the greatest -importance to our well-being and happiness, we cannot -be too often cautioned against suffering them to -be broken by tale bearers and whisperers, or by any -dark plots and contrivances of our enemies: for when -by such wicked means as these, or by our own imprudence, -we lose a friend, we shake the very basis -of our interest, and remove the pillar that contributed -to support it. Whatever in cases of this kind is applicable -to individuals, is equally so to kingdoms and -states; and it is as undisputed a maxim as ever was -urged upon the attention of mankind, by the best man -that ever lived, that a “kingdom divided against itself -cannot stand:” the people are invincible when united.</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">Faction and feuds will overturn the state<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Which union renders flourishing and great.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<div id="ip_90" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 16em;"> - <img src="images/i_090.jpg" width="251" height="184" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">91</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_91" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_091.jpg" width="569" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE OLD MAN AND HIS SONS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> old Man had several Sons, who were constantly -quarrelling with each other, notwithstanding he used -every means in his power to persuade them to cease -their contentions, and to live in amity together. At -last he had recourse to the following expedient:—He -ordered his Sons to be called before him, and a -bundle of sticks to be brought, and then commanded -them to try if, with all their strength, any of them -could break it. They all tried, but without effect: -for the sticks being closely and compactly bound together, -it was impossible for the force of man to break -them. 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 them try to break it. This -they did with ease, and soon snapped every stick asunder. -The Father then addressed them to this effect:<span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">92</span> -O, my Sons, behold the power of unity! for if you, -in like manner, would but keep yourselves strictly -conjoined in the bands of friendship, it would not be -in the power of any mortal to hurt you; but when -you are divided by quarrels and animosities, you fall -a prey to the weakest enemies.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; -and the same holds good in all societies and corporations -of men, from the constitution of the nation, -down to every little parochial vestry. Every private -family should consider itself a little state, in which the -several members ought to be united by one common -interest. Quarrels with each other are as fatal to their -welfare, as factions are dangerous to the peace of the -commonwealth. But indeed the necessity of union -and friendship extends itself to all kinds of relations -in life, and they conduce mightily to the advantage of -those who cherish and cultivate them. No enemy will -dare to attack a body of men firmly attached to each -other, and will fear to offend one of the number, lest -he should incur the resentment of the rest; but if -they split into parties, and are disunited by quarrels, -every petty opponent will venture to attack them, and -the whole fraternity will be liable to wrongs and violence.</p> - -<div id="ip_92" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 13em;"> - <img src="images/i_092.jpg" width="198" height="125" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">93</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_93" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_093.jpg" width="560" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LION, THE TIGER, AND THE WOLF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Lion and a Tiger, at the same instant seized on -a young Fawn, which they immediately killed. This -they had no sooner performed, than they fell to fighting, -in order to decide whose property it should be. -The battle was so obstinate, that they were both compelled, -by weariness and loss of blood, to desist and -lie down breathless and quite disabled. A Wolf -passing that way, perceiving how the case stood, very -impudently stepped up and seized the booty, which -they had all this while been contending for, and carried -it off. The two combatants, who beheld this without -being able to prevent it, could only make this reflection: -How foolish, said they, has been our conduct! -Instead of being contented, as we ought, with our respective -shares, our senseless rage has rendered us<span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">94</span> -unable to prevent this rascally Wolf from robbing us -of the whole.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> people go to law about an uncertain title, -and have spent the value of their whole estate in the -contest, nothing is more common than to find that -some unprincipled attorney has secured the object in -dispute 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. If we would lay -aside passion, prejudice, and folly, and think calmly of -the matter, we should find 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 expence of money, time, and trouble, -to run through the tedious frivolous forms, with which, -by the artifices of greedy lawyers, a court of judicature -is contrived to be attended. Or if a case should -happen to be so intricate that a man of common sense -cannot distinguish who has the best title, how easy -would it be to have the opinion of the best counsel in -the land, and agree to abide by his decision. 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!</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">95</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_95" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_095.jpg" width="568" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX WITHOUT A TAIL.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox being caught in a trap, escaped after much -difficulty with the loss of his tail. He was, however, -a good deal ashamed of appearing in public without -this ornament, and at last, to avoid being singular and -ridiculous in the eyes of his own species, he formed -the project of calling together an assembly of Foxes, -and of persuading them that the docking of their tails -was a fashion that would be very agreeable and becoming. -Accordingly he made a long harangue to -them for that purpose, and endeavoured chiefly to -shew the awkwardness and inconvenience of a Fox’s -tail, adding that they were quite useless, and that they -would be a very great deal better without them. He -asserted, that what he had only conjectured and imagined -before, he now found by experience to be true, -for he never enjoyed himself so much, and found himself<span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">96</span> -so easy as he had done since he cut off his tail. He -then looked round with a brisk air, to see what proselytes -he had gained; when a sly old Fox in company -answered him, with a leer: I believe you may have -found a convenience in parting with your tail, and -perhaps when we are in the same circumstances, we -may do so too.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Many</span> of the fashions which obtain in the world, -originate in the whim or caprice of some vain conceited -creature, who takes a pride in leading the giddy multitude -in a career of folly. Others again take their rise -from an artful design to cover some vice, or hide some -deformity in the person of the inventor. Projectors -and planners of a higher stamp are also not uncommon -in the world. These men appear to toil only for the -public good, and the sacred name of patriotism is their -shield. It, however, often happens that when their -deep schemes are opened out, they are found to proceed -from nothing better than self-interested motives, -and a sincere desire to serve themselves.</p> - -<div id="ip_96" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_096.jpg" width="334" height="243" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">97</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_97" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_097.jpg" width="563" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MISER AND HIS TREASURE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Miser, having got together a large sum -of money, sought out a sequestered spot, where he -dug a hole and hid it. His greatest pleasure was to -go and look upon his treasure; which one of his servants -observing, and guessing there was something -more than ordinary in the place, came at night, found -the hoard, and carried it off. The next day, the -Miser returning as usual to the scene of his delight, -and perceiving the money gone, tore his hair for grief, -and uttered the most doleful accents of despair. A -neighbour, who knew his temper, overhearing him, -said, Cheer up, man! thou hast lost nothing: there -is still a hole to peep at: and if thou canst but fancy -the money there, it will do just as well.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">98</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Of</span> all the appetites to which human nature is subject, -none is so lasting, so strong, and so unaccountable, -as avarice. Other desires generally cool at the -approach of old age; but this flourishes under grey -hairs, and triumphs amidst infirmities. All our other -longings have something to be said in excuse for them; -but it 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 treasure -is as useless to him as a heap of oyster shells; for -though he knows how many substantial pleasures it -might procure, yet he dares not touch it, and is as -destitute, to all intents and purposes, as the man who -is not worth a groat. This is the true state of a covetous -person, to which one of that fraternity perhaps -may reply, that when we have said all, since pleasure -is the grand aim of life, if there arise a delight to some, -from the bare possession of riches, though they do not -use, or even intend to use them, we may be puzzled -how to account for it, and think it strange, but ought -not absolutely to condemn those who thus closely, but -innocently, pursue what they esteem the greatest happiness. -True! people would be in the wrong to paint -covetousness in such odious colours, were it compatible -with innocence. But here arises the mischief: a covetous -man will stop at nothing to attain his ends; and -when once avarice takes the field, honesty, charity, -humanity, and every virtue which opposes it, are sure -to be put to the rout.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">99</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_99" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_099.jpg" width="559" height="400" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SHIP DOG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> young saucy Dog, having been found not to like -any employment at home, was taken by a sea captain -on board his ship, where, being well fed, he soon became -both stout and fierce, and shewed himself off as -such in every foreign port. He no sooner got ashore, -than he held up his leg against every post and corner, -and scraped the ground with his feet, quite regardless -what dog he might bespatter; and if any of them happened -to look sulkily at him, he thought nothing of -seizing upon and rolling them in the kennel. If he -happened to fall into company, he always began to -give himself airs, to talk big, and to express his contempt -for the dogs of the place. He would boast that -he was from a better country, and belonged to a better -family than any dog among them. In short, said he, -“I come from Cheviot, the highest mountain in the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">100</span> -world, and the very heart of all England, where my -forefathers, thousands of years ago, assembled to hunt -the Wild Bull, the Wolf, and the Boar.” He was -once going on at this rate, when he was interrupted -by a sedate, experienced Bitch, who assured him that -there were good dogs and bad dogs in every country, -and that the only difference arose from their education; -that many of the forefathers he boasted of, had -long since worried each other, and the remainder of -them had become so troublesome, that part had been -transported across the sea to another place; and she -knew, from good authority, that both his father and -his mother were hanged.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> foreigners speak slightingly of the country -they happen to be in, and praise their own, it shews in -them a want of good sense and good breeding. It is -indeed natural to have an affection for one’s native -land, nor can we help preferring it to every other; but -to express this in another country, to people whose opinion -it must needs contradict, by the same rule that it -is conformable to our own, cannot fail of giving them -just offence. It matters not how highly some particular -countries may stand in the estimation of the rest of the -world: this has little to do with private individuals; -the advantage of having been born in one of those favoured -countries, is accidental, and no man ought to -be esteemed merely on that account. In order to merit -the respect of virtuous and wise men in every foreign -land, it must appear to them that by our talents, our -acquirements, and our patriotism, we do credit to the -country which gave us birth.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">101</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_101" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_101.jpg" width="563" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE GOAT AND THE LION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> 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 precipice to -another all day, and venture the breaking of his neck -every moment? I wonder, says he, you will not come -down and feed on the plain here, when there is such -plenty of grass, and fine sweet herbs. Why, replies -the Goat, I cannot but say your opinion is right; but -you look so very hungry and designing, that, to tell -you the truth, I do not care to venture my person -where you are.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Advice,</span> though good in itself, is to be suspected -when it is given by a tricking, self-interested man.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">102</span> -Perhaps we should take upon ourselves not only a very -great, but an unnecessary trouble, if we were to suspect -every man who offers to advise us; but this however -is necessary, that when we have reason to question -any one in point of honour and justice, we not only -consider well 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 without much inconvenience.</p> - -<div id="ip_102" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 31em;"> - <img src="images/i_102.jpg" width="482" height="267" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">103</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_103" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_103.jpg" width="565" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TWO TRAVELLERS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Two</span> 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 -have found an Axe. Do not say I, says the other, but -we have found; for as we are companions, we ought -to share the value between us: but the first would not -consent. They had not gone far, before the owner of -the Axe, hearing what was become of it, pursued them -with a warrant; which, when the fellow that had it, -perceived, Alas! says he to his companion, we are -undone. Nay, says the other, do not say we, but I -am undone: for, as you would not let me share the -prize, neither will I share the danger with you.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">104</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> cannot reasonably expect those to bear a part -in our ill-fortune, whom we never permitted to share -in our prosperity; and whoever is so over-selfish and -narrow-minded, as to exclude his friend from a portion -of the benefits to which an intimate connection entitles -him, may, perhaps, engross some petty advantages to -himself, but he must lay his account on being left to -do as well as he can for himself in times of difficulty -and distress. The very life and soul of friendship subsist -upon mutual benevolence, and in conferring and -receiving obligations on either hand, with a free, open, -and unreserved behaviour, without the least tincture of -jealousy, suspicion, or distrust, guided by a strict observance -of the rules of honour and generosity; and as -no man includes within himself every thing necessary -for his security, defence, preservation, and support, -these rules are the requisites of friendship, to make it -firm and lasting, and the foundation on which it must -be built.</p> - -<div id="ip_104" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 15em;"> - <img src="images/i_104.jpg" width="229" height="185" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">105</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_105" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_105.jpg" width="565" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE ASS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Ass finding a Lion’s skin, disguised himself in -it, and ranged about the forest, putting all the beasts -in bodily fear. After he had diverted himself thus -for some time, he met a Fox, and being desirous to -frighten him too, as well as the rest, he leapt at him -with some fierceness, and endeavoured to imitate the -roaring of a Lion. 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.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> 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 him but discourse, and he<span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">106</span> -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. -“Empty vessels make the greatest sound,” and -the deepest rivers are most silent; the greatest noise -is ever found where there is the least depth of water. -It is a true observation, that those who are the weakest -in understanding, and most slow of apprehension, are -generally the most precipitate in uttering their crude -conceptions. Grave looks, an aspect of dignity, and a -solemn deportment, may sometimes deceive even an accurate -observer; but wise discourse cannot be successfully -counterfeited or assumed, and the sententious -blockhead is as easily recognised as the pert coxcomb. -It matters not what disguise one of these may assume; -he utters himself, and undeceives us: he brays, -and tells the whole company what he is.</p> - -<div id="ip_106" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_106.jpg" width="331" height="339" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">107</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_107" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_107.jpg" width="562" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE CAT AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> the Cat and the Fox were once talking politics -together, 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 pray, says he, Mrs Puss, suppose there -should be an invasion, what course do you design to -take? Nay, says the Cat, I have but one shift for it, -and if that won’t do, I am undone. I am sorry for -you, replies Reynard, with all my heart, and would -gladly furnish you with one or two of mine; but indeed -neighbour, 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 -scarcely out of his mouth, when they were alarmed -with a pack of hounds, that came upon them in full cry. -The Cat, by the help of her single shift, ran up a tree<span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">108</span> -and sat securely among the branches, whence she beheld -Reynard, who had not been able to get out of -sight, overtaken with his thousand tricks, and torn into -as many pieces by the Dogs, which had surrounded -him.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">One</span> good discreet expedient made use of upon an -emergency, will do a man more real service, and make -others think better of him, than to have passed all his -life for a shrewd crafty fellow, full of his stratagems -and expedients, and valuing himself upon his having -a deeper knowledge of the world than his neighbours. -Plain good sense, and a downright honest meaning, -are a better guide through life, and more trusty security -against danger, than the low shifts of cunning, -and the refinements of artifice. Cunning is of a deep -entangling nature, and is a sign of a small genius; -though when it happens to be successful, it often makes -an ostentatious pretension to wisdom; but simplicity -of manners is the ally of integrity, and plain common -sense is the main requisite of wisdom.</p> - -<div id="ip_108" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img src="images/i_108.jpg" width="316" height="272" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">109</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_109" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_109.jpg" width="555" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DOG INVITED TO SUPPER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Gentleman having invited several friends to supper, -his Dog thought this a fit opportunity to invite -another Dog, an intimate of his own, to partake with -him of the good cheer, in the kitchen. Accordingly the -stranger punctually attended, and seeing the mighty -preparations going forward, promised himself a most -delicious repast. He began to smell about, and, with -his eyes intent upon the victuals, to lick his lips, and -wag his tail. This drew the attention of the Cook, -who stole slyly up, and seizing him by the hind legs, -whirled him out of the window into the street. The -Dog, stunned and hurt by his hard fall on the pavement, -began to howl, the noise of which drew several -Dogs about him, who knowing of the invitation, began -to enquire how he had fared? O! charmingly, -said he; only I ate and drank till I scarce knew which -way I came out of the house.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">110</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> is no depending upon a second-hand interest; -unless we know ourselves to be well with the -principal, and are assured of his favour and protection, -we stand upon a slippery foundation. They are strangers -to the world who are so weak 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 to gaining their point, -and may probably be treated with scorn and derision -in the end. Yet there are not wanting among the several -species of fops, silly people of this sort, who pride -themselves in an imaginary happiness, from being in -the good graces of a great man’s friend’s friend. Alas! -the great men themselves are but too apt to deceive -and fail in making 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 -ought to be ashamed to be detected in it; and, like -the Dog 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.</p> - -<div id="ip_110" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 19em;"> - <img src="images/i_110.jpg" width="304" height="147" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">111</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_111" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_111.jpg" width="564" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE ANGLER AND THE LITTLE FISH.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Angler caught a small Trout, and as he was -taking it off the hook, and going to put it into his -basket, it opened its little throat, and begged most -piteously that he would throw it into the river again. -The man demanded what reason it had to expect this -indulgence? Why, says the Fish, because I am so -young and so little, that it is not worth your while -taking me now, and certainly I shall be better worth -your notice, if you take me a twelvemonth afterwards, -when I shall be grown a great deal larger. That may -be, replied the Angler, but I am sure of you now; -and I am not one of those who quit a certainty in -expectation of an uncertainty.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">112</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">They</span> who neglect the present opportunity of reaping -a small advantage, in the hope that they shall obtain -a greater afterwards, are far from acting upon a -reasonable and well advised foundation. We ought -never thus to deceive ourselves, and suffer the favourable -moment to slip away; but secure to ourselves -every fair advantage, however small, at the moment -that it offers, without placing a vain reliance upon the -visionary expectation of something better in time to -come. Prudence advises us always to lay hold of time -by the forelock, and to remember that “a bird in the -hand is worth two in the bush.”</p> - -<div id="ip_112" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_112.jpg" width="340" height="224" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">113</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_113" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_113.jpg" width="565" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">A MAN BITTEN BY A DOG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Man, 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 to the Cur that bit -him. He did so, and Æsop happening to pass by just -at the time, asked him what he meant by it? The -man informed him. Why then, says Æsop, do it as -privately as you can, I beseech you; for if the rest of -the Dogs of the town were to see you, we should all -be eaten up alive by them.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Vice</span> should always be considered as the proper object -of punishment, and we should on no account -connive at offences of an atrocious nature, much less<span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">114</span> -confer rewards on the criminals: for nothing contributes -so much to the increase of roguery, as when -the undertakings of a knave are attended with success. -If it were not for the fear of punishment, a great part -of mankind, who now make a shift to keep themselves -honest, would be great villains. But if criminals, instead -of meeting with punishment, were, by having -been such, to attain honour and preferment, our natural -inclination to mischief would be increased, and -we should be wicked out of emulation. We should -rather strive to make virtue as tempting as possible, -and throw out every allurement in our power to draw -the minds of the wavering and unsettled to espouse -her cause.</p> - -<div id="ip_114" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 31em;"> - <img src="images/i_114.jpg" width="484" height="286" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">115</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_115" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_115.jpg" width="567" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE TIGER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> skilful Archer coming into the woods, directed his -arrows so successfully, that he slew many wild beasts, -and wounded several others. This put the whole savage -kind into a great consternation, and made them -fly into the most retired thickets for refuge. At last, -the Tiger resumed courage, and bidding them not be -afraid, said that he alone would engage the enemy, -telling them they might depend on his valour to avenge -their wrongs. In the midst of these threats, -while he was lashing himself with his tail, and tearing -up the ground with anger, an arrow pierced his ribs, -and hung by its barbed point in his side. He set up -a loud and hideous roar, occasioned by the anguish -he felt, and endeavoured to draw out the painful dart -with his teeth: when the Fox approaching him, enquired -with an air of surprise, who it was that could<span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">116</span> -have strength and courage enough to wound so mighty -and valorous a beast? Ah! says the Tiger, I was -mistaken in my reckoning: it was that invincible Man -yonder.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Though</span> strength and courage are very good ingredients -towards making us secure and formidable in the -world, yet unless there be a proper portion of wisdom -or policy to direct them, instead of being serviceable, -they often prove detrimental to their proprietors. A -rash forward man, who depends upon the excellence -of his own parts and accomplishments, is likewise apt -to expose a weak side, which his enemies might not -otherwise have observed; and gives an advantage to -others by those very means which he fancied might -have secured it to himself. Counsel and conduct always -did and always will govern the world; and the -strong, in spite of all their force, can never avoid being -tools to the crafty. Some men are as much superior -to others in wisdom and policy, as man in general -is above the brute. Strength, ill-governed, opposed -to them, is like a quarter staff in the hands of a huge, -robust, but bungling fellow, who fights against a -master of the science. The latter, though without a -weapon, would have skill and address enough to disarm -his adversary, and drub him with his own staff. -In a word, savage fierceness and brutal strength, must -not pretend to stand in competition with policy and -stratagem.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">117</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_117" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_117.jpg" width="559" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DOG AND THE SHADOW.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Dog, crossing a rivulet with a piece of flesh in his -mouth, saw his own shadow represented in the clear -mirror of the stream; and believing it to be another -Dog, who was carrying another piece of flesh, he -could not forbear catching at it; but was so far from -getting any thing by his greedy design, that he dropt -the piece he had in his mouth, which immediately sunk -to the bottom, and was irrecoverably lost.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">Base is the man who pines amidst his store,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">And fat with plenty, griping covets more.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Excessive</span> greediness, in the end, mostly misses what -it aims at, and he that catches at more than belongs<span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">118</span> -to him, justly deserves to lose what he has. Yet nothing -is more common, and, 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 dominions of their neighbours; not that -they wanted any thing more to feed their luxury, but -to gratify their insatiable appetite for vain glory; and -many states have been reduced to the last extremity -by attempting such unjust encroachments. He that -thinks he sees the estate of another 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.</p> - -<div id="ip_118" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 29em;"> - <img src="images/i_118.jpg" width="453" height="247" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">119</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_119" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_119.jpg" width="566" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BEAR AND THE BEE-HIVES.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Bear, climbing over the fence into a place where -Bees were kept, began to plunder the hives, and rob -them of their honey; but the Bees, to revenge the injury, -attacked him in a whole swarm together; and -though they were not able to pierce his rugged hide, -yet, with their little stings they so annoyed his eyes -and nostrils, that, unable to endure the smarting pain, -with impatience he tore the skin over his ears, with his -own claws, and suffered ample punishment for the injury -he had done the Bees, in breaking open their -waxen cells.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Many</span> and great are the injuries of which men are -guilty towards each other, for the sake of gratifying<span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">120</span> -some base appetite: for there are those who would -not scruple to bring desolation upon their country, and -run the hazard of their own necks into the bargain, -rather than balk a wicked inclination, either of cruelty, -ambition, or avarice. But it were to be wished, that -all who are hurried on by such blind impulses, would -consider a moment before they proceed to irrevocable -execution. Injuries and wrongs not only call for revenge -and reparation with the voice of equity itself, but -oftentimes carry their punishment along with them; -and, by an unforeseen train of events, are retorted on -the head of the actor, who not seldom, from a deep -remorse, expiates them upon himself by his own hand.</p> - -<div id="ip_120" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 33em;"> - <img src="images/i_120.jpg" width="521" height="224" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">121</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_121" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_121.jpg" width="562" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DRUNKEN HUSBAND.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Woman had a Drunken Husband, whom -she had endeavoured to reclaim by several ways, without -effect. She, at last, tried this stratagem: when he -was brought home one night dead drunk, 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 again. When she returned, -and knocked at the door of the vault, the man -cried out, who’s there? I am the person, says she, -in a dismal tone of voice, 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 to tearing her hair, and beating her -breast in a woeful manner: Unhappy wretch that I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">122</span> -am, says she, this was the only way that I could think -of to reform the beastly sot; but instead of gaining my -point, I am only convinced that his drunkenness is an -incurable habit, which he intends to carry with him -into the other world.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is intended to shew us the prevalence of -custom; and how by using ourselves to any evil practice, -we may let it grow into such a habit as we shall -never be able to divest ourselves of. “O! that men -should put an enemy into their mouths to steal away -their brains!” There is no vice which gains an ascendant -over us more insensibly, or more incurably, -than drunkenness: it takes root by degrees, and comes -at length to be past both remedy and shame. Habitual -drunkenness stupifies the senses, destroys the understanding, -fills its votaries with diseases, and makes -them incapable of business. It cuts short the thread -of life, or brings on an early old age, besides the mischief -it does in the mean time to a man’s family and -affairs, and the scandal it brings upon himself: for a -sot is one of the most despicable and disgusting characters -in life. After he has destroyed his reasoning -faculties, and thus shewn his ingratitude to the giver -of them, he flies to palliatives as a remedy for the diseases -which his intemperance has caused, and goes on -in a course of taking whets and cordials, and more -drink, till he falls a martyr to the vice, to which -through life he has been a slave.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">123</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_123" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_123.jpg" width="543" height="415" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LIONESS AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Lioness and the Fox meeting together, fell -into discourse, and the conversation turning upon the -breeding and 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 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 some -folks who are never delivered of more than one at -a time, and that perhaps not above once or twice in -their whole lives, 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 time perceived at -whom this reflection pointed, replied, what you have<span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">124</span> -observed is true. You litter often, and produce a -great many at a time; but what are they? Foxes! -I, indeed, may have but one at a time; but you should -remember that that one is a Lion.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Our</span> productions, of whatsoever kind, are not to be -esteemed so much by their quantity as by their quality. -It is not being employed much, but well, and to the -purpose, which will make us useful to the age we live -in, and celebrated by those which are to come. As the -multiplication of foxes and other vermin is a misfortune -to the countries which are infested with them, so -one cannot help throwing out a melancholy reflection, -when one sees some particular classes of the human -kind increase so fast as they do. But the most obvious -meaning of this Fable is the hint it gives us in relation -to authors. These gentlemen should never attempt to -raise themselves a reputation by trumping up a long -catalogue of their various 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 literary performance, -should be very cautious how he stakes his reputation -in a second attempt.</p> - -<div id="ip_124" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 14em;"> - <img src="images/i_124.jpg" width="214" height="128" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">125</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_125" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_125.jpg" width="566" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LAMB BROUGHT UP BY A GOAT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Wolf, prowling about for his prey, espied a Lamb -sucking a Goat. You silly creature! says he, you quite -mistake; this is not your mother; she is yonder among -a flock of sheep: do allow me to conduct you to her. -No, no, replies the Lamb, the mother that bore me -may indeed be yonder; but when she dropped me, she -shewed no further care, but left me unprovided for, -to shift for myself, regardless of what might become of -me; and had it not been for the kindness of this honest -Goat, who took compassion upon my helplessness, I -must have suffered all the miseries to which inexperienced -youth and innocence are exposed, when left -without a guide to the mercy of the world.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">126</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is levelled at those parents, too often -met with in society, who, through negligence or ignorance -of their duty, suffer their offspring to grow -up to maturity, without instilling into their minds a -single good principle of morality, or a reverence for -religion, to guide them through life, and to guard -them from falling into the snares of every wolf who -may seek their destruction. Others again, more abandoned -indeed, and callous to the tender ties of nature, -bring forth an offspring whom they neither cherish nor -provide for. Such a description of persons are not fit -to become parents, and they must not be surprized, if -their want of parental affection produce a corresponding -want of filial attachment and respect: for the duties -between parents and children are reciprocal. It is -the goodness of parents which chiefly entitles them to -the respect due to that name; and it is a paramount -duty of children to honour, obey, and revere such -parents as fulfil the obligations which the laws of God -and nature impose upon those who bring children into -the world.</p> - -<div id="ip_126" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_126.jpg" width="321" height="132" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">127</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_127" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_127.jpg" width="563" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HEN AND THE SWALLOW.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Hen, having found a nest of Serpent’s eggs in a -dung-hill, immediately, with a fostering care, sat upon -them, with a design to hatch them. A Swallow observing -this, flew towards her, and with great earnestness -forewarned her of her danger. What! said she, -are you mad, to bring forth a brood of such pernicious -creatures? Be assured, the instant they are warmed -into life, you are the first they will attack and wreak -their venomous spite upon: but the Hen persisted in -her folly, and the end verified the Swallow’s prediction.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is too often the hard fortune of many a kind -good-natured man in the world to breed up a bird to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">128</span> -pick out his own eyes, in despite of all cautions to the -contrary; but they who want foresight should hearken -to the council of the wise, as this might have the effect -of preventing their spending much time and good offices -on the undeserving, perhaps to the utter ruin of -themselves. It is the duty of all men to act fairly, -openly, and honestly, in all their transactions in life; -to do justice to all; but to consider well the character -of those on whom they would confer favours: for gratitude -is one of the rarest as well as the greatest of -virtues. The Fable is intended to shew that we should -never have any dealings with bad men, even to do -them kindnesses. Men of evil principles are a generation -of vipers, that ought to be crushed; and every -rogue should be looked upon by honest men as a venomous -serpent. The man who is occasionally, or by accident, -one’s enemy, may be mollified by kindness, and -reclaimed by good usage: such a behaviour both reason -and morality expect from us: but we should ever -resolve, if not to suppress, at least to have no connexion -with those whose blood is tinctured with hereditary, -habitual villainy, and their nature leavened with -evil, to such a degree as to be incapable of a reformation.</p> - -<div id="ip_128" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 14em;"> - <img src="images/i_128.jpg" width="218" height="155" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">129</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_129" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_129.jpg" width="564" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE ENVIOUS MAN AND THE COVETOUS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Envious Man happened to be offering up his -prayers to Jupiter, at the same time and in the same -place with a covetous miserable Fellow. Jupiter sent -Apollo to examine the merits of their petitions, and -to give them such relief as he should think proper. -Apollo therefore opened his commission, and told them, -that to make short of the matter, whatever the one -asked, the other should have doubled. Upon this, -the Covetous Man, who had a thousand things to request, -forebore to ask first, hoping to receive a double -quantity; for he concluded that all men’s wishes sympathized -with his own. By this circumstance, the Envious -Man had the opportunity of giving vent to his -malignity, and of preferring his petition first, which -was what he aimed at; so without hesitation he prayed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">130</span> -to have one of his eyes put out, knowing that of consequence -his companion would be deprived of both.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is levelled at two of the most odious -passions which degrade the mind of man. In the extremes -of their unsocial views, envy places its happiness -in the misery and the misfortunes of others, and -pines and sickens at their joy; and avarice, unblest -amidst its stores, is never satisfied unless it can get all -to itself, although its insatiable cravings are at once -unaccountable, miserable, and absurd.</p> - -<div id="ip_130" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_130.jpg" width="571" height="522" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">131</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_131" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_131.jpg" width="564" height="393" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE PORCUPINE AND THE SNAKES.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Porcupine, wanting a shelter for himself, begged -a nest of Snakes to give him admittance into their snug -cave. They were prevailed upon, and let him in accordingly; -but were so annoyed with his sharp prickly -quills, that they soon repented of their easy compliance, -and intreated the Porcupine to withdraw, and -leave them their hole to themselves. No, said he, let -them quit the place that dont like it; for my part, I -am well enough satisfied as I am.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable points out the danger of entering into -any degree of friendship, alliance, or partnership with -any person whatever, before we have thoroughly considered -his nature and qualities, his circumstances, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_132">132</span> -his humour; and also the necessity of examining our -own temper and disposition, to discover, if we can, -how far these may accord with the genius of those with -whom we are about to form a connection; otherwise -our associations, of whatever kind they be, may prove -the greatest plague of our life. Young people, who -are warm in all their passions, and suffer them, like a -veil, to hoodwink their reason, often throw open their -arms at once, and admit into the greatest intimacy -persons whom they know little of, but by false and uncertain -lights, and thus, perhaps, take a Porcupine -into their bosom, instead of an inmate who might -sooth the cares of life, as an amiable consort, or a -valuable friend.</p> - -<div id="ip_132" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 29em;"> - <img src="images/i_132.jpg" width="452" height="262" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_133">133</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_133" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_133.jpg" width="568" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SOW AND THE WOLF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Sow that had just farrowed, and lay in her sty -with her whole litter of Pigs, was visited by a Wolf, -who secretly longed to make a meal of one of them, but -knew not how to come at it. So, under the pretence -of a friendly visit, he gave her a call, and endeavoured -to insinuate himself into her good graces by his -apparently kind enquiries after the welfare of herself -and her young family. Can I be of any service to -you, Mrs Sow? said he: if I can, it shall not on my -part be wanting; and if you have a mind to go abroad -for a little fresh air, you may depend upon my taking -as much care of your young family as you could do -yourself. No, I thank you, Mr Wolf, I thoroughly -understand your meaning, and the greatest favour you -can do to me and my Pigs, is to keep your distance.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_134">134</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> an entire stranger, or any one of whom we -have no reason to entertain a good opinion, obtrudes -upon us an offer of his services, we ought to look to -our own safety, and shew a shyness and coldness towards -him. But there are also many men with whom -it is dangerous to have the least connection, and with -whom any commerce or correspondence will certainly -be to our detriment. From these we should, -therefore, resolve not to accept even favours, but carefully -avoid being under any obligation to them: for -in the end, their apparent kindness will shew itself to -be a real injury; and there is no method of guarding -so effectually against such people, as that of entirely -avoiding their society, or shutting our doors against -them, as we would do against a thief.</p> - -<div id="ip_134" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 23em;"> - <img src="images/i_134.jpg" width="367" height="267" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_135">135</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_135" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_135.jpg" width="565" height="401" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FROGS AND THEIR KING.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">In</span> antient times, the nation of Frogs lived an easy -free life among their lakes and ponds; but at length -grew dissatisfied with such a continuance of undisturbed -tranquillity, and petitioned Jupiter for a king. -Jupiter smiled at their folly, and threw them down a -log of wood, and with a thundering voice said, “there -is a king for you.” With this, and the sudden splash -it made in the water, they were at first quite panic-struck, -and for some time durst not put their heads -up; but by degrees they ventured to take a peep, and -at length even to leap upon the log. Not being pleased -with so tame and insipid a king, they again petitioned -Jupiter for another, who would exert more authority. -Jupiter, disgusted at their importunate folly, sent them -a Stork for their king, who, without ceremony, eat -them up whenever his craving appetite required a supply.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_136">136</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is said to have been spoken by Æsop -to the Athenians, who had flourished under their commonwealth, -and lived under good and wholesome laws -of their own enacting, until, in process of time, they -suffered their liberty to run into licentiousness; and -factious designing men fomented divisions, and raised -animosities among them. When thus rendered weak, -Pisistratus took the advantage, and seized upon their -citadel and liberties both together. The Athenians -finding themselves in a state of slavery, though their -tyrant happened to be a merciful one, could not bear -the thoughts of it; but Æsop in reciting the Fable to -them, prescribes patience where there was no other remedy, -and adds, at last, “Wherefore, my dear countrymen, -be contented with your present condition, bad -as it is, for fear a change should make it worse.”</p> - -<div id="ip_136" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 33em;"> - <img src="images/i_136.jpg" width="514" height="377" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"><i>Set them up with a king indeed!</i></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_137">137</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_137" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_137.jpg" width="564" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE OLD WOMAN AND THE EMPTY CASK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Old Woman, seeing a Wine Cask, which had -been emptied of its contents, but the very lees of which -still perfumed the air with a grateful cordial scent, -applied her nose to the bunghole, and snuffing very -heartily for some time, at last broke out into this exclamation: -O delicious smell! How good! how charming -must you have been once, when your very dregs -are so agreeable and refreshing!</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Phædrus</span> 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 capable -of such productions. It is at once a pleasing and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_138">138</span> -melancholy idea that is given us by the intercourse -with elderly persons, whose conversation is relishing -and agreeable, and we cannot help concluding that -they must have been very engaging in the prime of life, -when in their decline they are still capable of yielding -us so much pleasure. Nor can we help feeling regret, -that this fountain of delight is now almost dried up, -and going to forsake us for ever. On the contrary, -when people have neglected to cultivate their minds in -youth, their whole deportment through life is marked -with the effects of this great want, and their old age is -burthensome to themselves, and their conversation insipid -to others; and like liquor of a thin body, and -vile quality, soon becomes sour, vapid, or good for -nothing.</p> - -<div id="ip_138" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_138.jpg" width="332" height="288" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"><i>An old filtering stone</i></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_139">139</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_139" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_139.jpg" width="567" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">JUPITER AND THE CAMEL.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Camel presented a petition to Jupiter, complaining -of the hardships of his case, in not having, -like bulls and other creatures, horns, or any weapon -of defence to protect himself from the attacks of his -enemies; and praying that relief might be granted him -in such manner as should be thought most expedient. -Jupiter could not help smiling at his impertinent address; -but, however, rejected the petition, and told -him, that so far from granting his unreasonable request, -he would take care that henceforward his ears -should be shortened, as a punishment for his presumptuous -importunity.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> nature of things is so fixed in every particular,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_140">140</span> -that they are very weak, superstitious people, who -think that it can be altered. But besides the impossibility -of producing a change by foolish importunities, -they who employ much of their time in that way, instead -of getting, are sure to lose in the end. When -any man is so silly and vexatious as to make unreasonable -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 -scanty. Thus, in truth, it is not Providence, but ourselves, -who punish our own importunity, in soliciting -for impossibilities, with a sharp corroding care, which -abridges us of some part of that little pleasure which -Heaven has cast into our lot.</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">Happy the man without a wish for more,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Who quietly enjoys his little store,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">And knows to heaven, with gratitude to pay<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Thanks for what’s given, and what is ta’en away.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<div id="ip_140" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 23em;"> - <img src="images/i_140.jpg" width="357" height="239" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_141">141</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_141" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_141.jpg" width="546" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE STAG AND THE FAWN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Stag, grown old and mischievous, was, according -to custom, stamping with his foot, making threatening -motions 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 fly 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 -indeed vigorous and able enough, I think, to defend -myself against all attacks, and often resolve with myself, -that nothing shall ever dismay my courage for the -future; but, alas! I no sooner hear the voice of the -hounds, but all my spirits fail, and I cannot help -making off as fast as my legs can carry me.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_142">142</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">Try what we can, do what we will,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Yet nature will be nature still.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> predominance of nature will generally shew -itself through all the disguises which artful men endeavour -to throw over it. Cowardice particularly gives -us but the more suspicion of its existence, when it -would conceal itself under an affected fierceness, as -they who would smother an ill smell by a cloud of -perfume, are imagined to be but the more offensive. -When we have done all, nature will remain what she -was, and shew herself whenever she is called upon: -therefore, whatever we do in contradiction to her laws, -is so forced and affected, that it must needs expose and -make us truly ridiculous.</p> - -<div id="ip_142" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 27em;"> - <img src="images/i_142.jpg" width="419" height="285" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_143">143</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_143" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_143.jpg" width="567" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FIR AND THE BRAMBLE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> tall Fir, that stood towering up in the forest, was -so proud of his dignity and high station, that he looked -with disdain upon the little shrubs that grew beneath -him. A lowly Bramble had often been made to feel -the insults and gloomy frowns of his lofty neighbour, -who, on the slightest rufflings of the winds, shook his -extended arms over the humble shrub, and upbraided -him with his contemptible situation. As for me, said -the Fir, I am the first in the forest for beauty and -rank: my top shoots up into the clouds, and my -branches display a perpetual verdure, whilst you lie -grovelling upon the ground, and could not live were -I to leave off sprinkling you with the drops from my -extremities. At this the Bramble set up his prickles, -and replied, that this haughtiness arose from pride and -ignorance; for He that made thee a lofty tree, could,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_144">144</span> -with equal ease, have made thee an humble Bramble; -and high as thou art, a puff of His breath, in the message -of a north wind, can rob thee of thy verdure, or -lay thee low; and further, I pray thee tell me, when -the woodman comes with his axe to fell timber, whether -thou wouldst not rather be a Bramble than a Fir?</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Pride,</span> which was implanted in the human breast -for wise purposes, should carefully be directed aright. -It was intended only to exalt the minds of all ranks -and conditions of men, to that pitch, which will make -them spurn at, and despise the doing of a mean or dishonourable -action; and it is only misapplied, when it -puffs up those whom fortune has placed in high stations, -or overloaded with riches, and tempts them to -look down with derision on those below them. The -higher a man is exalted in life, but especially if he have -risen by dishonourable means, the more unlikely it is -that he will escape a storm, or the mischiefs to which -he may be exposed in his public capacity, in any convulsion -that may befal his country. When public justice -overtakes him, and he finds the day of reckoning -near at hand, the honest monitor within will put him -in mind of his true situation, and he will then be enabled -to make a just comparison between his own lofty -station, and that of the poor, but honest, man.</p> - -<div id="ip_144" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 12em;"> - <img src="images/i_144.jpg" width="190" height="124" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_145">145</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_145" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_145.jpg" width="564" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BEES, THE DRONES, AND THE WASP.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> number of Drones, who had long lived at their -ease in a hive of Bees, without contributing by their -labour to make any honey, at length began to dispute -the right of the Bees, and insisted that both -the honey and the combs were their property. The -Bees, after much altercation, at last offered to leave -the dispute to reference, and this being assented to by -the Drones, the Wasp was chosen umpire. Accordingly, -he began by declaring, that as both parties, he -hoped, were his friends, and he wished them well, he -would instantly proceed upon the investigation. I -must own, says he, that the point is somewhat dubious, -for I have often seen you both in the same -hive, and excepting that the Drones are of a more<span class="pagenum" id="Page_146">146</span> -portly size and appearance, you are all otherwise nearly -alike in person: but as I have not been able to see -who worked, and who did not, I know of no mode -in which I shall be enabled to judge so correctly, as -by setting each party to work at the making of the -honey. Therefore, addressing himself to the Bees, -you take one hive; and you, speaking to the Drones, -will be so good as to take another, and both go to -work to make honey as fast as you can. The Bees -readily accepted the proposal; but the Drones hung -back, and would not agree to it. So, so! says Judge -Wasp, I see clearly how the matter stands; and without -further ceremony, declared in favour of the Bees.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> surest method of detecting ignorance and inability, -is to put arrogant pretenders to the test, and -appreciate their claims by a fair trial; and when those -who assume the merit due to works of ingenuity, refuse -to prove their title by a display of their talents, we may -well conclude that their pretensions are unfounded, and -that they are mere impostors. When men, who are at -the head of national affairs, will not be at the pains to -find out merit (for men of that character are too modest -to obtrude themselves) they will be surrounded by a -swarm of idle, impudent, good-for-nothing drones; -and these too often succeed in obtaining those benefits -which should be the reward of men of parts, integrity, -and industry.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_147">147</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_147" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_147.jpg" width="569" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FROG AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Frog leaping out of the lake, and taking the advantage -of a rising ground, made a proclamation to all -the 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 discourse, with the -aid of some 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 lanthorn -jaws, that meagre pale phiz, and blotched spotted body, -to pretend to cure the infirmities of others?</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> sickly and infirm look is as disadvantageous in a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_148">148</span> -physician, as a rakish one in a clergyman, or a sheepish -one in a soldier. We should not set up for correctors -of the faults of others, whilst we labour under the same -ourselves. Good advice ought always to be followed, -without our being prejudiced upon account of the person -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 we ourselves are -afflicted. 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 of which we would endeavour -to cure others. How shocked must people have -been to hear a preacher for a whole hour declaim -against drunkenness, when his own weaknesses have -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 censuring -crimes, of which none were suspected more 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.</p> - -<div id="ip_148" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_148.jpg" width="339" height="224" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_149">149</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_149" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_149.jpg" width="560" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE CAT AND THE MICE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain house being much infested with Mice, -a Cat was at length procured, who very diligently -hunted after them, and killed great numbers every -night. The Mice, being exceedingly alarmed at this -destruction among their family, consulted together upon -what was best to be done for their preservation -against so terrible and cruel an enemy. After some -debate, they came to the resolution, that no one should, -in future, descend below the uppermost shelf. The -Cat, observing their extreme caution, endeavoured to -draw them down to their old haunts by stratagem, for -which purpose, she suspended herself by her hinder -legs upon a peg in the pantry, and hoped by this trick -to lull their suspicions, and to entice them to venture -within her reach. She had not long been in this -posture, before a cunning old Mouse peeped over the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_150">150</span> -edge of the shelf, and squeaked out thus: Aha! Mrs -Puss, are you there then? There may you be; but I -would not trust myself with you, though your skin -were stuffed with straw.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> cannot be too much upon our guard against -fraud and imposition of every kind; and prudence in -many cases would rather counsel us to forego some advantages, -than endeavour to gain them at a risk of -which we cannot certainly ascertain the amount. We -should more particularly suspect some design in the -professions of those who have once injured us; and -though they may promise fairly for the future, it is no -breach of charity to doubt their sincerity, and decline -their proposals, however plausible they may appear; -for experience shews that many of the misfortunes -which we experience through life, are caused by our -own too great credulity.</p> - -<div id="ip_150" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 13em;"> - <img src="images/i_150.jpg" width="197" height="147" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_151">151</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_151" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_151.jpg" width="549" height="397" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE OAK AND THE REED.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Oak, which hung over the bank of a river, was -blown down by a violent storm of wind, and as it was -carried along by the stream, some of its boughs brushed -against 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 up an Oak by the roots? -Why, says the Reed, I secure myself by a conduct the -reverse of yours: 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.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Though</span> a tame submission to injuries which it is in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_152">152</span> -our power to redress, be generally esteemed a base and -dishonourable thing, yet to resist where there is no -probability, or even hope of getting the better, may -also be looked upon as the effect of a blind temerity, -and perhaps of a weak understanding. The strokes of -fortune are oftentimes as irresistible as they are severe, -and he who with an impatient spirit fights against her, -instead of alleviating, does but double the blows upon -himself. A person of a quiet still temper, whether it -be 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, in swimming to the -shore from a wrecked vessel, in a swelling sea, 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 precept, with nothing but ignorance -and superstition to support it; but, upon particular occasions, -and where it is impossible for us to overcome, -to submit patiently is one of the most reasonable maxims -of life.</p> - -<div id="ip_152" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 26em;"> - <img src="images/i_152.jpg" width="416" height="201" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"> - -<p> -<i>O God of infinite Wisdom<br /> -Truth Justice & Mercy<br /> -I thank Thee</i><br /> -</p></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_153">153</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_153" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_153.jpg" width="566" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">FORTUNE AND THE BOY.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> School Boy, fatigued with play, laid himself down -by the brink of a deep well, where he fell fast asleep. -Fortune, whose wheel is always in motion, passing by, -kindly gave him a tap on the head, and awoke him. -My good boy, said she, arise and depart from this -dangerous situation immediately; for if you had tumbled -into this well, and been drowned, your friends -would not have attributed the accident to your carelessness, -but would have laid the whole blame upon me.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Mankind</span> suffer more evils from their own imprudence, -than from events which it is not in their power -to controul; but they are ever ready to complain of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_154">154</span> -perverseness of chance, and the capriciousness of fortune, -and to impute the blame to her for whatever -mischiefs may befal them, when these clearly arise from -their own misconduct. Few men pass through life -without having had reason at one time or another to -thank Fortune for her favours; and great is the number -of those who have, through their own folly, indolence, -or inattention, neglected to profit by her kindness. -Prudent people take every care not to put themselves -in the power of accidents; but those who carelessly give -up all their concerns to the guidance of blind chance, -must not be surprised if by some of the revolutions of -Fortune’s wheel, they feel the punishment due to their -negligence and folly.</p> - -<div id="ip_154" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 15em;"> - <img src="images/i_154.jpg" width="228" height="346" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"><p>BLOODO ET GUTTO</p> - -<p> -<i>The Butchers Coat<br /> -of Arms</i><br /> -</p></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_155">155</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_155" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_155.jpg" width="570" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE WOLF AND THE CRANE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Wolf, after devouring his prey, happened to have -a bone stick in his throat, which gave him so much -pain, that he went howling up and down, and importuning -every creature he met to lend him a kind hand -in order to his relief; nay, he promised a reasonable -reward to any one who should perform the operation -with success. At last, the Crane undertook the business, -ventured his long neck into the rapacious felon’s -throat, plucked out the bone, and asked for the promised -reward. The Wolf, turning his eyes disdainfully -towards him, said, I did not think you had been -so unconscionable: I had your head in my mouth, and -could have bit it off whenever I pleased, but suffered -you to take it away without any damage, and yet you -are not contented!</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_156">156</span></p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">Who serves a villain, might as wisely free<br /></span> -<span class="i0">The hardened murderer from the fatal tree.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> are people in the world to whom it may be -wrong to do services, upon a double score: first, because -they never deserve to have a good office done -them; and secondly, because when once engaged, it is -so hard a matter to get well rid of their acquaintance. -We ought to consider what kind of people they are, -to whom we are desired to do good offices, before we -do them: for he that grants a favour, or even confides -in a person of no honour, instead of finding his account -in it, comes off well, if he be no sufferer in the end.</p> - -<div id="ip_156" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 23em;"> - <img src="images/i_156.jpg" width="354" height="242" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_157">157</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_157" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_157.jpg" width="566" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HART AND THE VINE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Hart being closely pursued by the Hunters, concealed -himself under the broad leaves of a shady Vine. -When the Hunters were gone by, and had given him -over for lost, he thinking himself very secure, began -to crop and eat the leaves of his shelter. By this, the -branches being put into a rustling motion drew the attention -of some 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 Deer. Before he expired, he uttered his dying -words to this purpose: “Ah!” says he, “I suffer -justly for my ingratitude; because I could not forbear -doing an injury to the Vine, which so kindly concealed -me in time of danger.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_158">158</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> is no maxim which deserves more frequent -repetition, and if the heart be capable of amendment -by precept and admonition, no virtue should be more -strongly enforced and recommended than gratitude. -Where sentiments of this kind are wanting, our natures -soon become debased, and our minds depraved. -Ingratitude has ever been justly branded as the blackest -of crimes, and, as it were, comprehending all other -vices within it. Nor can we say that this opinion is -too severe: for if a man be capable of injuring his -benefactor, what will he scruple doing towards another? -We may fairly conclude that he who is guilty -of ingratitude, will not hesitate at any other crime of -an inferior nature. Since there are no human laws to -punish this infamous prevailing vice, it would only -be doing an act of justice, and supplying the want, to -point out criminals of this description to the reprobation -of mankind, that men of worth might avoid all intercourse -and communication with them. The ingrate -should also bear in mind, that he strips himself of the -protection which might have been afforded by his -friends, and exposes himself to the shafts of his enemies, -who will not fail to take advantage of the defenceless -state to which his folly and depravity have reduced -him.</p> - -<div id="ip_158" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 9em;"> - <img src="images/i_158.jpg" width="140" height="130" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_159">159</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_159" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_159.jpg" width="565" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HUNTED BEAVER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Beaver, having strayed far from his dwelling, -(which it is well known these animals construct with -infinite sagacity) was closely pursued by the hunters, -and knowing that he was thus persecuted for the sake -of the castor, which is contained in two little bags -placed underneath and near the tail, he, with great -resolution and presence of mind, bit them off with his -teeth, and leaving them behind him, thus escaped -with his life.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is in vain for individuals to contend against an -overwhelming power, and an ineffectual resistance to -violence only tends to double our sufferings. When -life is pursued, and in danger, whoever values it should<span class="pagenum" id="Page_160">160</span> -give up every thing but his honour to preserve it; and -there can be no disgrace in yielding voluntarily to our -persecutors, when we are certain that resistance is in -vain: but this doctrine can seldom be applied to the -case of a whole nation, for when tyranny and rapine -are making their wicked strides over a country (as has -sometimes happened even in Europe) the people would -seldom fail to rid themselves of their oppressors, if they -resolved to rise as one man, and bravely oppose them.</p> - -<div id="ip_160" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_160.jpg" width="437" height="271" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_161">161</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_161" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_161.jpg" width="567" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE ASS AND THE LION HUNTING.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Lion, having thinned the forest of great numbers -of the beasts upon which he preyed, and so scared -and intimidated the rest, that he found it very difficult -to get hold of any more of them, bethought himself of -a new expedient to obtain more readily a fresh supply. -He invited the Ass to assist him in his plan, and gave -him instructions how to act. Go, said the Lion, and -hide thyself in yonder thicket, and then let me hear -thee bray in the most frightful manner thou possibly -canst. The stratagem took effect accordingly. The Ass -brayed most hideously, and the timorous beasts, not -knowing what to think of it, began to scour off as fast -as they could; when the Lion, who was posted at a -proper avenue, seized and killed them as he pleased. -Having got his belly full, he called out to the Ass, and -bade him leave off, telling him he had done enough.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_162">162</span> -Upon this, the long-eared brute came out of his ambush, -and approaching the Lion, asked him, with an -air of conceit, 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 frightened myself.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> bragging cowardly fellow may impose upon people -that do not know him; but is the greatest jest imaginable -to those who do. There are many men who appear -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; but if we take the -pains to enquire a little into their true nature, are as -arrant Asses as ever brayed.</p> - -<div id="ip_162" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 19em;"> - <img src="images/i_162.jpg" width="302" height="218" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_163">163</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_163" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_163.jpg" width="565" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SOW AND THE BITCH.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Sow and a Bitch happening to meet, a debate -arose between them concerning their fruitfulness. The -Bitch insisted upon it, that she brought forth more at -a litter, and oftener, than any other four-legged creature. -Nay, said the Sow, you do not do so, for others -are as prolific as you; and besides, you are always in -such a hurry, that you bring your puppies into the -world blind.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is no wonder that our productions should come -into the world blind or lame, or otherwise defective, -when by forced or unnatural methods we accelerate -their birth, and impatiently refuse to let them go their -full time. Then it is that the excellent proverb of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_164">164</span> -more haste the worse speed, is felt and fully verified. -This Fable has been pointed at those authors whose -itch for scribbling has been an annoyance to the world, -rather than of any real use to it; and who have been -proud of, and boasted of the numerous but flimsy productions -of their vain and shallow brains. It is proper -to put such people in mind, that it is not he who does -most, but he who does the best, that will meet the approbation -of mankind.</p> - -<div id="ip_164" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 32em;"> - <img src="images/i_164.jpg" width="504" height="292" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"><i>Who told the Lamb to suck its Mother’s Paps?</i></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_165">165</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_165" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_165.jpg" width="566" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SATYR AND THE TRAVELLER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Satyr, as he was ranging the forest in an exceeding -cold snowy season, met with a Traveller half-starved -with the extremity of the weather. He took -compassion on him, and kindly invited him home to a -warm cave he had in the hollow of a rock. As soon as -they had entered and sat down, notwithstanding there -was a good fire in the place, the chilly Traveller could -not forbear blowing his fingers. Upon the Satyr asking -him why he did so? He answered, that he did it to -warm his hands. The honest Sylvan having seen little -of the world, admired a man who was master of so valuable -a quality as that of blowing heat; and therefore -resolved to entertain him in the best manner he could. -He spread the table with dried fruits of several sorts, -and produced a remnant of old cordial wine, which he -mulled with some warm spices over the fire, and presented -to his shivering guest. But this the Traveller<span class="pagenum" id="Page_166">166</span> -thought fit to blow upon likewise; and when the Satyr -demanded a reason why he did so, 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 shoulders, he -thrust him out of the place, 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 breath.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Nothing</span> can be more offensive to a man of a sincere -honest heart, than he who blows with different -breaths from the same mouth: who flatters a man to -his face, and reviles him behind his back. Such double-dealing -false friends ought and will always be considered -as unworthy of being treated otherwise than as -worthless and disagreeable persons: for unless the -tenor of a man’s life be always true and consistent with -itself, the less one has to do with him the better. It -is unfortunately too common with persons of this cast -of character, in the exalted stations of life, to serve a -present view, or perhaps only the caprice or whim of -the moment, to blow nothing but what is warm, benevolent, -and cherishing, to raise up the expectations of -a dependent to the highest degree; and when they suspect -he may prove troublesome, they then, by a sudden -cold forbidding air, easily blast all his hopes and expectations: -but such a temper, whether it proceed from -a designed or natural levity, is detestable, and has been -the cause of much trouble and mortification to many a -brave deserving man.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_167">167</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_167" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_167.jpg" width="548" height="401" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE GRAPES.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> hungry Fox coming into a vineyard where there -hung delicious clusters of ripe Grapes, his mouth watered -to be at them; but they were nailed up to a trellis -so high, that with all his springing and leaping he -could not reach a single bunch. At last, growing -tired and disappointed, Let who will take them! says -he, they are but green and sour; so I’ll e’en let them -alone.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">To</span> affect to despise that which they have long ineffectually -laboured to obtain, is the only consolation -to which weak minds can have recourse, both to palliate -their inability, and to take off the bitterness of -disappointment. There is a strange propensity in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_168">168</span> -mankind to this temper, and there is a numerous class 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 they cannot -obtain. The discarded statesman, considering the corruption -of the times, would not have any hand in the -administration of affairs for the world! The needy -adventurer, and pretended patriot, would fain persuade -all who will listen to them, that they would not go -cringing and creeping into a drawing-room, for the best -place the king has in his disposal! Worthless young -fellows, who find that their addresses to virtue and -beauty are rejected; and poor rogues who laugh to -scorn the rich and great, are all alike in saying, like -sly Reynard, the Grapes are sour!</p> - -<div id="ip_168" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 23em;"> - <img src="images/i_168.jpg" width="358" height="213" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_169">169</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_169" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_169.jpg" width="566" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MISCHIEVOUS DOG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Man had a Dog which was so ferocious -and surly, that he was compelled to fasten a heavy clog -to his collar, to keep him from running at and indiscriminately -seizing upon every animal that came in his -way. 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 -sly old poacher, who was one of the gang, assured him -that he had no reason to value himself upon the favour -he wore, since it was fixed upon him as a badge of disgrace, -not of honour.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> only true way of estimating the value of tokens<span class="pagenum" id="Page_170">170</span> -of distinction, is to reflect on what account they were -conferred. Those which have been acquired for virtuous -actions, will be regarded as illustrious signs of -dignity; but if they have been bestowed upon the -worthless and base, as the reward of vice or corruption, -all the stars and garters, and collars of an illustrious -order,—all the tinsel glories in which such creatures -may strut about in fancied superiority, will not -mask them from the sight of men of discernment, who -will always consider the means by which their honours -have been obtained, and truly estimate them as badges -of abasement and disgrace.</p> - -<div id="ip_170" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 29em;"> - <img src="images/i_170.jpg" width="464" height="239" alt="" /> - <div class="caption">THE WAGES OF CRUELTY.</div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_171">171</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_171" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_171.jpg" width="561" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BULL AND THE GOAT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Bull being pursued by a Lion, fled towards a -cave, in which he designed to secure himself; but was -opposed at the entrance by a Goat, who had got possession -before him, and, threatening a kind of defiance -with his horns, seemed resolved to dispute the pass. -The Bull, who thought he had no time to lose in a -contest of this nature, immediately made off; but told -the Goat, that it was not for fear of him or his defiances: -for, says he, if the Lion were not so near, I -would soon teach you the difference between a Bull -and a Goat.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_172">172</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">O’er-match’d, unaided, and his foes at hand,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Safely the coward may the brave withstand;<br /></span> -<span class="i0">But think not, dastard, thus thy glories shine—<br /></span> -<span class="i0">He fears a greater force, but scoffs at thine.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is very inhuman to deny succour and comfort to -people in tribulation; but to insult them, and add to -their misfortunes, is something superlatively brutish and -cruel. There is, however, in the world, a sort of people -of this vile temper, and littleness of mind, who -wait for an opportunity of aggravating their neighbour’s -affliction, and defer the execution of their evil -inclinations until they can do it with the severest effect. -If a person suffer under an expensive law-suit, lest he -should escape 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 shuffling antagonists -never begin their encounter till they are very sure the -person they aim at is already over-matched.</p> - -<div id="ip_172" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_172.jpg" width="336" height="142" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_173">173</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_173" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_173.jpg" width="570" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FISHERMAN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Fisherman having laid his nets in the -river, and placed them across the whole stream from -one side to the other, took a long pole, and fell to -beating the water to make the fish strike into his nets. -One of his neighbours 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 splashing and dashing the -water, and making it so muddy, that it is 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 I -cannot live without it.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_174">174</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is levelled at those who love to “fish -in troubled waters,” and whose execrable principles -are such, that they care not what mischief or what -confusion they occasion in the world, provided they -can obtain their ends, or even gratify some little selfish -appetite. Little villains would set fire to a town, provided -they could rake something of value to themselves -out of its ashes; or kindle the flames of discord among -friends and neighbours, purely to gratify their own -malicious temper; and among the great ones there are -those who, to succeed in their ambitious designs, will -make no scruple of involving their country in divisions -and animosities at home, and sometimes in war -and bloodshed abroad: provided they do but maintain -themselves in power, they care not what havoc and -desolation they bring upon the rest of mankind. Their -only reason is, that it must be so, because they cannot -live as they wish without it. But brutish unsocial sentiments -like these, are such as a mere state of nature -would scarcely suggest; and it is perverting the very -end, and overturning the first principles of society, -when, instead of contributing to the welfare of mankind, -in return for the benefits we receive from them, -we thrive by their misfortunes, or subsist by their -ruin. Those, therefore, who have the happiness of -mankind at heart, (for happiness and morality are inseparably -connected) should enter their protest against -such wicked selfish notions, and oppose them with all -their might; at the same time shunning the society of -their possessors as a plague, and consigning their characters -to the detestation of posterity.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_175">175</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_175" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_175.jpg" width="570" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE BOAR.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Fox, in traversing the forest, observed a Boar -rubbing his tusks against a tree. Why how now, -said the Fox, why make those martial preparations of -whetting the teeth, since there is no enemy near that -I can perceive? That may be, said the Boar; but -you ought to know, Master Reynard, that we should -scour up our arms while we have leisure: for in time -of danger we shall have something else to do; and it is -a good thing always to be prepared against the worst -that can happen.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">All</span> business that is necessary to be done should be -done betimes: for there is as little trouble in doing it -in season as out of season; and he that is always ready<span class="pagenum" id="Page_176">176</span> -can never be taken by surprize. Wise, just, and vigilant -governments know that they cannot be safe in -peace, unless they are always prepared for war, and -are ready to meet the worst that can happen. When -they become corrupt, or supine, and off their guard, -they thereby invite and expose their country to the -sudden attacks of its enemies. In private life, many -evils and calamities befal those who make no provision -against unforeseen or untoward accidents, which the -prudent man prevents by looking forward to probable -contingencies, and having a reserve of every thing -necessary before-hand,—that he may not be put into -hurry and confusion, nor thrown into dilemmas and -difficulties, when the time comes that he may have to -encounter them. It cannot be too strongly impressed -upon the minds of all men, that day by day they are -approaching towards old age, and that they should -honourably endeavour to provide a store of conveniences -against that time, when they will be most in -want of them, and least able to procure them. To -reflect properly upon this, will give them pleasure instead -of pain; and they will not die a day sooner for -being always ready for that certain event: to do otherwise -is acting like weak-minded men, who delay making -their wills, and properly settling their worldly -affairs, because to them it looks so like the near approach -of death.</p> - -<div id="ip_176" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 18em;"> - <img src="images/i_176.jpg" width="283" height="165" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_177">177</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_177" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_177.jpg" width="566" height="399" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">CÆSAR AND THE SLAVE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> Tiberius Cæsar was upon a journey to Naples, -he stopped at a house which he had upon the mountain -Misenus. As he was walking in the gardens attached -to the house, one of his domestic slaves appeared in -the walks, sprinkling the ground with a watering pot, -in order to lay the dust, and this he did so officiously, -and ran with so much alertness from one walk to another, -that wherever the Emperor went, he still found -this fellow mighty busy with his watering pot. But at -last his design being discovered, which was to attract -the notice of Cæsar by his extraordinary diligence, in -the hope that he would make him free,—part of the -ceremony of doing which consisted in giving the Slave -a gentle stroke on one side of his face,—his imperial -Majesty being disposed to be merry, called the Man to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_178">178</span> -him, and when he came up, full of the joyful expectation -of his liberty, Hark you friend, says he, I have -observed that you have been very busy a great while; -but you were officiously meddling where you had nothing -to do, while you might have employed your time -better elsewhere; and therefore I must tell you, that -I cannot afford a box on the ear at so low a price as -you bid for it.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Phædrus</span> tells us upon his word, that this is a true -story, and that he wrote it for the sake of a set of industrious -idle gentlemen at Rome, who were harassed -and fatigued with a daily succession of care and trouble, -because they had nothing to do. Always in a -hurry, but without business; busy, but to no purpose; -labouring under a voluntary necessity, and taking -abundance of pains to shew they were good for nothing. -But what great town or city is so entirely free -of this sect, as to render the moral of this Fable useless -any where? For it points at all those officious good-natured -people, who are eternally running up and -down to serve their friends, without doing them any -good; who, by a complaisance wrong judged or ill applied, -displease whilst they endeavour to oblige, and -are never doing less to the purpose than when they are -most employed. In a word, this Fable is designed for -the reformation of all those who endeavour to gain for -themselves benefits and applause, from a misapplied -industry. It is not our being busy and officious that -will procure us the esteem of men of sense; but the -application of our actions to some noble useful purpose, -and for the general good of mankind.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_179">179</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_179" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_179.jpg" width="564" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FROGS AND THE FIGHTING BULLS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Frog, 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 his associates, Look, -says he, what dreadful work is yonder! Dear sirs, -what will become of us? Tush, said one of his companions, -do not frighten yourself so about nothing; -how can their quarrels affect us? They are of a different -kind, and are at present only contending which -shall be master of the herd. That is true, replies the -first, their quality and station in life are different from -ours; but as one of them will certainly prove conqueror, -he that is worsted, being beaten out of the meadow, -will take refuge here in the marshes, and possibly tread -some of us to death; so you see we are more nearly -concerned in this dispute of theirs, than you were at -first aware.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_180">180</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> wise man, however low his condition in life, looks -forward through the proper and natural course and -connection of causes and effects; and in so doing, he -fortifies his mind against the worst that can befal him. -It is of no small importance to the honest and quiet -part of mankind, who desire nothing so much as to see -peace and virtue flourish, to consider well the consequences -that may arise to them out of the quarrels and -feuds of the great, and to endeavour, by every means -in their power, to avoid being in any way drawn in by -their influence to become a party concerned in their -broils and disputes: for no matter in which way the -strife between the high contending parties may terminate, -those who may have had the misfortune to be -concerned with them, ought to think themselves well off -if they do not smart for it severely in the end. How -often has it happened, that men in eminent stations, -who want to engross all power into their own hands, -begin, under the mask of patriotism, to foment divisions -and form factions, and excite animosities between -well-meaning, but undiscerning people, without whose -aid in one way or another they could not succeed; but -who, at the same time, little think that the great aim -of their leaders is nothing more than the advancement -of their own private interest, or ambitious ends. 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.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_181">181</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_181" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_181.jpg" width="562" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE OLD HOUND.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Old Hound, who had excelled in his time, and -given his Master great satisfaction in many a chace, at -last, through age, became feeble and unserviceable. -However, being in the field one day, when the Stag -was almost run down, he happened to be the first that -came in with him, and seized him by the haunch; but -his decayed and broken teeth not being able to keep -their hold, the Deer escaped; upon which, his Master -fell into a great passion, and began to whip him severely. -The honest old creature is said to have barked -out this apology: Ah! do not thus strike your poor -old servant: it is not my heart and inclination, but my -strength and speed, that fail me. If what I now am -displease you, pray do not forget what I have been!</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_182">182</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">O let not those, whom honest servants bless,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">With cruel hands their age infirm oppress;<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Forget their service past, their former truth,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">And all the cares and labours of their youth.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is intended to reprove the ingratitude -too common among mankind, which leaves the faithful -servant to want and wretchedness, after he has spent -the prime of his life in our service for a bare subsistence. -Where slavery is allowed, the laws compel the -master to provide for the worn-out slave; and where -there is no law to enforce the debt of gratitude, none -but those who are insensible to all the finer feelings of -humanity will neglect it. Those who forget past services, -and treat their faithful servants or friends unkindly -or injuriously, when they are no longer of use -to them, however high their pride, are unworthy of -the name of gentleman. They are, indeed, commonly -of an upstart breed, with whom the failure of human -nature itself is imputed as a crime; and servants and -dependents, instead of being considered their fellow-men, -are treated like brutes for not being more than -men. The imprudence of this conduct is equal to its -wickedness, inasmuch as it directly tends to extinguish -the honest desire to please and to act faithfully, in the -younger servants, when they see that worn-out merit -thus goes unrewarded. Humanity and gratitude are -the greatest ornaments of the human mind, and when -they are extinguished, every generous and noble sentiment -perishes along with them.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_183">183</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_183" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_183.jpg" width="569" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TWO BITCHES.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Bitch, who was just ready to whelp, intreated -another to lend her her kennel only till her month was -up, and assured her that then she should have it again. -The other very readily consented, and with a great -deal of civility, resigned it to her immediately. However, -when the time was elapsed, she came and made -her a visit, and very modestly intimated, that now she -was up and well, she hoped she should see her abroad -again; for that, really, it would be inconvenient for -her to be without her kennel any longer, and therefore, -she told her, she must be so free as to desire her -to provide herself with other lodgings as soon as she -could. The lying-in Bitch replied, that truly she was -ashamed of having kept her so long out of her own -house; but it was not upon her own account (for indeed -she was well enough to go any where) so much<span class="pagenum" id="Page_184">184</span> -as that of her puppies, who were yet so weak, that she -was afraid they would not be able to follow her; and, -if she would be so good as to let her stay a fortnight -longer, she would take it as the greatest obligation in -the world. The other Bitch was so good-natured and -compassionate as to comply with this request also; 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 to that: for I promise you, -unless you can beat me and my whole litter of whelps, -you are never likely to have any thing more to do here.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Wise</span> and good-natured men do not shut their ears, -nor harden their hearts, against the calls of humanity, -and the cries of distress; but how often are their generous -natures imposed upon by the artifices of the base -and worthless! These fail not to lay their plans with -deep cunning, to work themselves into the good graces -of the benevolent, and having accomplished their ends, -the return they often make is abusive language, or the -most open acts of violence. One of the evil and lamentable -consequences arising out of this, is, that worth in -distress suffers by it: for distrust and suspicion take -hold of the minds of good men, and the hand of charity -is thus benumbed. This Fable may also serve to caution -us never to let any thing we value go out of our -possession without good security. The man who means -to act prudently, ought never to put himself in the -power of others, or to run any risk of involving his -own family in ruin.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_185">185</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_185" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_185.jpg" width="554" height="399" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HEN AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox having crept into an out-house, looked up and -down, seeking what he might devour, and at last spied -a Hen perched up so high, that he could by no means -come at her. My dear friend, says he, how do you do? -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 how is 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 fulsome manner, when -the Hen answered him from the roost, Truly, friend -Reynard, you are judging rightly, for I never was in -more pain in my life: I must beg your pardon for -being so free as to tell you that I see no company; -and you must excuse me too for not coming down to -you, for, to say the truth, my condition is such, that -I fear I should catch my death by it.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_186">186</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is generally the design of hypocritical persons to -delude and impose upon others, with an eye to derive -some benefit to themselves, when they pretend to -feel a flattering anxiety for their welfare; or sometimes -they may perhaps, with impertinent folly, mean no -more than merely to mock and befool men who are -weak enough to become their dupes. In both cases -they are enemies to truth and sincerity, which adorn -and tend so greatly to promote the happiness of society, -and they ought to be exposed as such. For although -men of penetration see through the pretence, -and escape its dangers, yet the weak, the vain, and the -unsuspicious are put off their guard, and have not discernment -enough to shun the trap so pleasingly baited. -The Fable also furnishes a hint against hypocritical, -legacy hunters, whose regard is generally of the same -nature as that of the Fox for the Hen.</p> - -<div id="ip_186" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_186.jpg" width="434" height="371" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_187">187</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_187" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_187.jpg" width="556" height="393" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE ASS IN THE LION’S SKIN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Ass, while feeding upon the coarse herbage by -the edge of a wood, found a Lion’s skin, and putting -it on, went in this disguise into the adjoining forests -and pastures, and threw all the flocks and herds into -the greatest consternation and dismay. At length, his -master, who was in search of him, made his appearance, -and the silly beast, entertaining the idea of -frightening him also, capered forward with a terrific -gait towards him; but the good man seeing his long -ears stick out, presently knew him, and with a stout -cudgel made him sensible, that notwithstanding his being -dressed in a Lion’s skin, he was really no more -than an Ass.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_188">188</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> all affectation is wrong, and tends to expose -and make a man ridiculous, so the more distant he is -from the thing which he affects to appear, the stronger -will be the ridicule which he excites, and the greater -the inconvenience into which he thereby runs himself. -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 -for cowardice! Yet there have been those who have -purchased a commission to avoid being insulted; and -have been so silly as to think courage was interwoven -with a sash, or tied up in a cockade. But it would -not be amiss for such gentlemen to consider that it is -not in the power of scarlet cloth to alter nature, and -that as it is expected a soldier should shew himself a -man of courage and intrepidity upon all proper occasions, -they may by this means meet the disgrace they -intended to avoid, and appear greater Asses than they -needed to have done. However, it is not in point of -fortitude only that people are liable to expose themselves, -by assuming a character to which they are not -equal; but he who puts on a shew of learning, of religion, -of a superior capacity in any respect, or in short, -of any virtue or knowledge, to which he has no proper -claim, is, and will always be found to be, an Ass in a -Lion’s skin.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_189">189</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_189" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_189.jpg" width="566" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE CLOWN AND THE GNAT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> a clownish Fellow was sitting musing upon a -bank, a Gnat alighted upon his leg and bit it. He -slapped his hand upon the place, with the intention of -crushing the assailant; but the little nimble insect -escaped between his fingers, and repeated its attacks. -Every time he struck at it, he gave himself a smart -blow upon the leg, but missed his aim. At this he became -enraged, and in the height of his peevish and -impatient humour, he earnestly prayed to Hercules, -beseeching him with his mighty power to stretch forth -his arm against a pernicious insect, by which he was -so miserably tormented.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">He</span> who suffers his mind to be ruffled by every little<span class="pagenum" id="Page_190">190</span> -inconvenience, subjects himself to perpetual uneasiness -and disquiet. There is no accident, however trivial, -but is capable of disconcerting him, and he becomes -absurdly miserable on the most foolish occasion. His -good humour is soured in an instant, and he is rendered -uncomfortable to himself, and odious or ridiculous -to all about him. He prays with earnestness to the -Supreme Being to aid him in all his paltry selfish -schemes, or to gratify vanities, for which, as a rational -being, he ought to blush and be ashamed. The -imaginary distresses, which his unfortunate disposition -heightens into severe calamities, are matter of diversion -to those who are disposed to sneer at him; and -when his pettish humour makes him rave like a madman, -and curse his fate, at the dropping of a hat, or -the blunder of a servant, even his friends must view -his behaviour with a mixed emotion of pity and contempt.</p> - -<div id="ip_190" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 29em;"> - <img src="images/i_190.jpg" width="461" height="186" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_191">191</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_191" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_191.jpg" width="568" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE WOLF AND THE LAMB.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">One</span> hot sultry day, a Wolf and a Lamb happened -to come just at the same time, to quench their thirst -in the stream of a brook that fell tumbling down the -side of a rocky mountain. The Wolf stood upon the -higher ground, and the Lamb at some distance below -him. However, the Wolf, having a mind to pick a -quarrel with the Lamb, asked him what he meant by -disturbing the water, and making it so muddy that he -could not drink? and, at the same time, demanded satisfaction. -The Lamb, frightened at this threatening -charge, told him, in a tone as mild as possible, that -with humble submission, he could not conceive how -that could be, since the water which he drank ran -down from the Wolf to him, and therefore could not -be disturbed so far up the stream. Be that as it -may, replies the Wolf, you are a rascal, and I have<span class="pagenum" id="Page_192">192</span> -been told that you used ill language concerning me behind -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 it to no purpose to argue -any longer against truth, fell into a great passion, -snarling and foaming at the mouth as if he had been -mad; and drawing nearer to the Lamb, Sirrah, says -he, if it were not you, it was your father, and that is -the same. So he seized the poor innocent helpless -thing, tore it to pieces, and made a meal of it.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">Where’er oppression rules, fell Wolves devour;<br /></span> -<span class="i0">And the worst crimes are want of strength and pow’r.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">They</span> who do not feel the sentiments of humanity, -will seldom listen to the voice of reason; and when -cruelty and injustice are armed with power, and determined -on oppression, the strongest pleas of innocence -are preferred in vain, and nothing is more easy -than finding pretences to criminate the unsuspecting -victims of tyranny. How many of the degenerate, corrupt, -and arbitrary governments with which the civilized -world has been disfigured, have exercised their -vengeance upon the honest and virtuous, who have -dared in bad times to speak the truth; and how many -men in private life are to be met with, whose wolfish -dispositions, and envious and rapacious tempers cannot -bear to see honest industry rear its head!</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_193">193</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_193" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_193.jpg" width="568" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MICE IN COUNCIL.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Mice called a general council, and after the -doors were locked, entered into a free consultation -about ways and means how to render themselves more -secure from the danger of the Cat. Many schemes were -proposed, and much debate took place upon the matter. -At last, a young Mouse, in a fine florid speech, -broached an expedient, which he contended was the -only one to put them entirely out of the power of the -enemy, and this was, that the Cat 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 proposed by some, that the -Mouse who had made it should have the thanks of the -assembly. Upon which, an old Mouse, who had sat -silent hitherto, gravely observed, that the contrivance<span class="pagenum" id="Page_194">194</span> -was admirable, and the author of it, without doubt, -very ingenious; but he thought it would not be so proper -to vote him thanks, till he should further inform -them how the bell was to be fastened about the Cat’s -neck, and who would undertake the task.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is easy for visionary projectors to devise schemes, -and to descant on their utility, which, after all, are -found to be so impracticable, or so difficult, that no -man of solid judgment can be prevailed upon to attempt -putting them into execution. In all matters -where the good of the community is at stake, new projects -should be carefully examined in all their bearings, -that the ruinous consequences which might follow them -may be avoided. All business of this import ought to -be left to the decision of such men only as are distinguished -for their good sense, probity, honour, and patriotism. -When these have examined them in all their -different bearings, we may place confidence in their -labours, and adopt their plans; but the Fable teaches -us not to listen to those rash and ignorant politicians, -who are always foisting their schemes upon the public -upon every occurrence of mal-administration, without -looking beneath the surface, or considering whether -they be practicable or otherwise.</p> - -<div id="ip_194" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 18em;"> - <img src="images/i_194.jpg" width="282" height="149" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_195">195</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_195" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_195.jpg" width="565" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE APE CHOSEN KING.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">On</span> the death of the old Lion, without his leaving -an heir, the beasts assembled to choose another king -of the forest in his stead. The crown was tried on -many a head, but did not sit easy upon any one. At -length the Ape putting it upon his own, declared that -it fitted him quite well, and after shewing them many -antic tricks, he with a great deal of grimace, and an -affected air of wisdom, offered himself to fill the high -office. The silly creatures being pleased with him at -the moment, instantly, by a great majority, proclaimed -him king. The Fox, quite vexed to see his fellow-subjects -act so foolishly, resolved to convince them of -their sorry choice, and knowing of a trap ready baited, -at no great distance, he addressed himself to King -Ape, and told him that he had discovered a treasure,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_196">196</span> -which being found on the waste, belonged to his Majesty. -The Ape presently went to take possession of -the prize; but no sooner had he laid his paws upon the -bait, than he was caught fast in the trap. In this situation, -between shame and anger, he chattered out -many bitter reproaches against the Fox, calling him -rebel and traitor, and threatening revenge: to all which -Reynard gravely replied, that this was nothing but a -beginning of what he would meet with in the high station -his vanity had prompted him to aspire to, as it -was only one of the many traps that would be laid for -him, and in which he would be caught; but he hoped, -this one might be a treasure to him, if it operated as a -caution, and served to put him in mind of the false -estimate he had put upon his abilities, in supposing, -that with his inexperienced empty pate, he could manage -the weighty affairs of state. He then, with a -laugh, left him to be relieved from his peril by one or -other of his foolish loving subjects.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> Apes are in power, Foxes will never be -wanting to play upon them. Men shew their folly, -rashness, and want of consideration, when they elect -rulers without the qualifications of integrity and abilities -to recommend them to the office; and the higher -it is, the more important it is to the interests of the -community that it should be properly filled. The -Fable also shews the weakness of those who, through -self-conceit, aspire to any high station without the requisites -to befit them for it, and the want of which exposes -authority to scorn.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_197">197</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_197" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_197.jpg" width="565" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE OLD MAN AND DEATH.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> poor feeble old Man, who had crawled from his -cottage into a neighbouring wood to gather a few -sticks, had made up his bundle, and laying it over his -shoulders, was trudging homewards; but what with -age, and the length of the way, he grew so faint and -weak, that he sunk under it, and as he sat upon the -ground, called upon Death to come once for all and -ease him of his troubles. Death no sooner heard him, -than he came and demanded what he wanted? The -poor old Creature, who little thought Death was so -near, frightened 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; and he hoped his worship was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_198">198</span> -not offended with him for the liberty he had taken in -craving his assistance.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> 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 accident -which happens in their way, Death is immediately -called upon, and they even wish it might be lawful for -them to finish with their own hands a life so odious, -so perpetually tormenting, and vexatious. When, let -but Death make his appearance, and the very sense of -his near approach almost does the business: then it is -that they change their minds, and would be glad to -come off so well as to have their old burthen laid upon -their shoulders again. But wise and good men know -that care and numberless disappointments must be their -portion in their passage through life, and know also -that it is their duty to endure them with patience; for -he is the best and happiest man who neither wishes nor -fears the approach of Death.</p> - -<div id="ip_198" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 25em;"> - <img src="images/i_198.jpg" width="359" height="219" alt="" /> - <div class="caption">TEMPERANCE IN THE GRAND BUSINESS OF LIFE.</div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_199">199</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_199" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_199.jpg" width="564" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TWO FROGS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">One</span> 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 not. -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 I cannot come into your opinion for my life; for if -the water should happen to dry there too, how should -we get out again?</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">In human affairs, many stations we meet,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Where ’tis easy to enter, but hard to retreat.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_200">200</span> -<span class="firstword">We</span> ought never to change our situation in life, nor -undertake any action of importance, without first duly -and deliberately weighing the consequences that may -follow, in all their different bearings. It is commonly -owing to the neglect of such wholesome precautions, -that numbers of young people are led into unfortunate -matches, suddenly made up; and others are from the -same causes led into a round of profuse living, or into -gaming and other extravagant conduct, which is sure to -terminate in ruin. To look before we leap, is a maxim -worthy of being remembered by all ranks and conditions -of men, from the lowest to the highest: even -kings may reap benefit by it; for when they inconsiderately -execute those schemes which their wicked -counsellors advise, they have often abundant reason to -repent. By this blind stupidity, wars are commenced, -from which a state cannot be extricated either with -honour or safety; and unwise projects are encouraged -by the rash accession of those who never considered -the consequences, or how they were to get out, till -they had plunged themselves irrecoverably into them.</p> - -<div id="ip_200" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 29em;"> - <img src="images/i_200.jpg" width="452" height="295" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_201">201</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_201" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_201.jpg" width="571" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE BRIAR.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox scrambling hastily over a hedge, in his flight -from the hounds, got his foot severely torn by a Briar. -Smarting with the pain, he burst into revilings and -complaints at this treatment, which he declared he -little expected to meet with for only passing over a -hedge; and he could not help thinking it was very bad -usage to be thus grappled by the long arms, and cut -and wounded by the sharp crooked spines of a Briar. -True, says the Briar, but recollect that you intended -to have made me serve your turn, and would, without -ceremony, have trampled me down to the ground: but -none of your freedoms with me, Master Reynard; you -may make a convenience of others perhaps, but the -family of the Briars are not of that cast. Whoever -presumes to use any impudent familiarities with them, -is sure to smart for it.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_202">202</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Presuming</span> and arrogant people do not hesitate to -make a convenience, or a kind of stepping stone, of any -one who will suffer them to do so; and if they can only -get their turn served, no matter how, they use no ceremony, -nor shew any delicacy in accomplishing their -ends. But the selfish and impudent gentry, who are -so apt to take liberties of this kind, now and then mistake -their men, and are justly retorted upon; and -however upon these occasions they may be surprized -and angry, others, who are indifferent spectators, instead -of viewing them as objects of pity, feel a secret -satisfaction in seeing them suffer, as proper examples -of justice.</p> - -<div id="ip_202" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_202.jpg" width="529" height="286" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_203">203</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_203" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_203.jpg" width="568" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MAN AND THE WEASEL.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Man having caught a Weasel in his pantry, was -just going to kill it, when the little captive begged -that he would not do so cruel a deed, but spare his -life; and he assured the Man that he was his friend, -and only entered his pantry with a view of destroying -the mice with which it was infested. That may be, -said the Man, but you do not do this with the intention -of serving me, nor with any other view but that -of serving yourself; and besides, you are so ferocious -and cruel a little creature, that you kill every animal -you have within your power, without the least compunction, -and seem to delight in killing for killing’s -sake; therefore, your pretensions to serve me, and -your plea for mercy, are good for nothing.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_204">204</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Many</span> people in the world are ever ready to set up -the pretensions of their acting with zeal, purely to -serve the public, and pretend that it is through the -warmth of their friendship that they do the same to -individuals; but the main spring of all the actions of -the agents of treachery, and of bad men, is set a-going -with the view only of serving themselves. It is thus -that the unprincipled and mercenary thief-taker would -like well to be accounted a public spirited man; and -he cannot help boasting of his services as such. The -hangman’s pretensions are of the same kind: but however -useful and necessary some of such a description of -men may be, to keep down the wicked part of mankind, -who are a nuisance to civilized society, yet the -instruments themselves are very like in character to the -Weasel in the Fable. The same may be said of those -factious writers, who pester the public with their clamorous -charges, under the mask of patriotism, but -whose real motive is either to gain money by the sale -of their highly seasoned scandals, or to run down their -corrupt opponents in order to obtain their places.</p> - -<div id="ip_204" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 19em;"> - <img src="images/i_204.jpg" width="292" height="197" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_205">205</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_205" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_205.jpg" width="566" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BOAR AND THE ASS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Ass happening to meet with a Boar, and being -in a frolicsome humour, and having a mind to shew -some of his silly wit, began in a sneering familiar style -to accost the Boar with, So ho, brother, your humble -servant, how is all at home with you? The Boar, nettled -at his familiarity, muttered out, Brother indeed! -then bristled up towards him, told him he was surprized -at his impudence, and was just going to shew -his resentment by giving him a rip in the flank: but -wisely stifling his passion, he contented himself with -only saying, Go, thou sorry beast! I could be easily -and amply revenged upon thee; but I dont care to foul -my tusks with the blood of so base a creature!</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_206">206</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is no uncommon thing to meet with impudent -fools, so very eager of being thought wits, that they -will run great hazards in attempting to shew themselves -such, and will often persist in their awkward -raillery to the last degree of offence. But these kind -of folks, instead of raising themselves into esteem, are -held in contempt by men of sense; and though the -generous and the brave may scorn to suffer themselves -to be ruffled by the insolent behaviour of every -ass that offends them, yet such sparks must not from -thence conclude, that they will not meet with retorts -in kind from men far superior to themselves in mental -endowments; or that their unseasoned wit will always -escape a more proper, but a different chastisement.</p> - -<div id="ip_206" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_206.jpg" width="550" height="270" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_207">207</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_207" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_207.jpg" width="558" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DOG AND THE SHEEP.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Dog sued the Sheep for a debt, of which the -Kite and the Wolf were to be the judges. They, -without debating long upon the matter, or making any -scruple 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.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Of</span> the many evils which throw back the well-being -of society, none raise in the honest mind more painful -and indignant feelings, than beholding the judgment -seat of mercy and justice filled by an unjust, corrupt, -and wicked judge, who has become, step by step, -hardened in his impious enormities, and is the fully-prepared -tool and supporter of tyranny and arbitrary<span class="pagenum" id="Page_208">208</span> -power. Fraud and oppression follow in his train: the -righteous laws of a just government are frittered away, -or superseded: truth and innocence are obnoxious; -honesty is sneered at, and it becomes criminal to espouse -the cause of virtue. In this state of things, wickedness -predominates, and its rapacious abettors give -full scope to the exercise of all kind of oppression and -injustice, to gratify their own vicious lusts. Then it -is that mankind are made to feel the evils of power being -in the hands of the worst of their species, who, -without hesitation, rob them of their property, and -divide the spoils. If there be not a sufficiency of the -most spirited and virtuous patriotism to rescue the -country from their fangs, then is despotism and degradation -near at hand.</p> - -<div id="ip_208" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 30em;"> - <img src="images/i_208.jpg" width="468" height="340" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_209">209</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_209" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_209.jpg" width="564" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">JUPITER AND THE HERDSMAN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Herdsman missing a young heifer, went up and -down the forest to seek it; and having walked over a -great deal of ground to no purpose, he fell a praying to -Jupiter for relief, promising 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 grove -of oaks, where he espied the carcase of his heifer, and -a Lion growling over it, and feeding upon it. This -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, I promised thee a kid -to shew me the thief; but now I promise thee a bull, -if thou wilt be so merciful as to deliver me out of his -clutches.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_210">210</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> ought never to supplicate the Divine power, -but through motives of religion and virtue. Prayers -dictated by blind self-interest, or to gratify some misguided -passion, cannot, it is presumed, be acceptable -to the Deity; and of all the involuntary sins which -men commit, scarcely any are more frequent than their -praying absurdly and improperly, as well as unseasonably, -when their time might have been employed to a -better purpose. Would men, as they ought to do, -obey the commands of Omnipotence, by fulfilling their -moral duties, and endeavour with all their might to -live as justly as they can, a just Providence would give -them what they ought to have: but stupidity and ignorance, -until better informed, and divested of superstition -and bigotry, will continue to form their notions -of the Supreme Being from their own poor shallow -conceptions; and nothing contributes more to keep up -this injudicious practice among simple, but perhaps -well-meaning people, than the numerous collections of -those crude rhapsodies, the offspring of itinerant bigotry, -with which the country overflows; while most of -those prayers are neglected which have been composed -with due reflection and matured deliberation, by the -most learned and pious of men. This Fable also -teaches us, that frequently the gratification of our vain -prayers would only lead us into dangers and evils, of -the existence of which we had no previous suspicion.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_211">211</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_211" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_211.jpg" width="562" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE OLD LION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Lion, that in the prime of his life had been very -rapacious and cruel, was reduced by age and infirmities -to extreme feebleness. Several of the beasts of -the forest, who had been great sufferers by him, now -came and revenged themselves upon him. The Boar -ripped him with his tusks, the Bull gored him with -his horns, and others in various ways had each a stroke -at him. When the Ass saw that they might do all -this without any danger, he also came and threw his -heels in the Lion’s face. Upon which, the poor expiring -tyrant is said to have groaned out these words: -Alas! how grievous is it to suffer insults, even from -the brave and valiant; but to be spurned at by so base -a creature as this, is worse than dying ten thousand -deaths!</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_212">212</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> men in power lose sight of justice and mercy, -and cruelly and unjustly tyrannise over the people under -their sway, they never will gain sincere reverence -or respect from the rest of mankind. The injuries they -inflict in the hey-day of their wicked career, will be -remembered with detestation through life; and when -age and impotence lay hold of them, they must not -expect to meet with friends they never deserved; but -may be certain of being treated with neglect and contempt, -and the baser their enemies are, the more insolent -and intolerable will be the affront. It will then -be discovered, with bitter remorse, that the days have -passed away, in which virtue and dignity ought to -have laid the foundation of a reputation which would -have been the solace of old age, and also extended a -good name to posterity with feelings of veneration; instead -of which the remembrance of past crimes will -haunt the guilty mind, and the unjust man will at -last be thrown into the grave with the common dust, -amidst the whispers of “Let him go,” and he will be -no more remembered than the animals on which he -feasted, or the herbage which was cut down when he -was a child.</p> - -<div id="ip_212" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 15em;"> - <img src="images/i_212.jpg" width="225" height="156" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_213">213</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_213" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_213.jpg" width="564" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MAGPIE AND THE SHEEP.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Magpie sat chattering upon the back of a Sheep, -and pulling off the wool to line her nest. Peace, you -noisy thing, says the Sheep: if I were a dog, you -durst not serve me so. That is true enough, replies -the Magpie, I know very well whom I have to deal -with: I never meddle with the surly and revengeful; -but I love to plague such poor helpless creatures as -you are, who cannot do me any harm.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is the characteristic of a mean, low, base spirit, -to be insolent or tyrannical to those who are obliged -to submit to it, and slavishly submissive to those who -have the spirit and the power to resist. Men of this -stamp take especial care not to meddle with people of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_214">214</span> -their own malicious principles, for fear of meeting with -a suitable return; but they delight in doing mischief -for mischief’s sake, and seem pleased when they can -insult the innocent with impunity. This kind of behaviour -is inconsistent with all the rules of honour and -generosity, and is opposite to every thing that is great, -good, amiable, and praise-worthy.</p> - -<div id="ip_214" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_214.jpg" width="532" height="324" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_215">215</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_215" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_215.jpg" width="552" height="397" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE STORK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Fox invited the Stork to dinner, and, being -disposed to divert himself at the expence of his guest, -provided nothing for the entertainment but soup, which -he served up in a wide shallow dish. This the Fox -could lap up with a great deal of ease; but the Stork, -who could but just dip in the point of his bill, was not -a bit the better for his entertainment. However, a -few days after, he returned the compliment, and invited -the Fox; but suffered nothing to be brought to -table excepting some minced meat in a glass jar, the -neck of which was so deep, and so narrow, that, -though the Stork with his long bill made a shift to -fill his belly, all that the Fox, who was very hungry, -could do, was to lick the brims as the Stork slabbered -them with his eating. Reynard was heartily vexed at<span class="pagenum" id="Page_216">216</span> -first; but when he came to take his leave, owned ingenuously, -that he had been used as he deserved; and -that he had no reason to take any treatment ill, of -which himself had set the example.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is very imprudent, as well as uncivil, to affront -any one, and we should always reflect, before we rally -another, whether we can bear to have the jest retorted. -Whoever takes the liberty to exercise his witty talent -in that way, must not be surprised if he meet reprisals -in the end. Indeed, if all those who are thus paid in -their own coin, would take it with the same frankness -that the Fox did, the matter would not be much; but -we are too apt, when the jest comes to be turned home -upon ourselves, to think that insufferable in another -which we looked upon as pretty and facetious when -the humour was our own. The rule of doing as we -would be done by, so proper to be our model in every -transaction of life, may more particularly be of use in -this respect. People seldom or never receive any advantage -by these little ludicrous impositions; and yet, -if they were to ask themselves the question, would find, -that they would receive the same treatment from another -with a very bad grace.</p> - -<div id="ip_216" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 14em;"> - <img src="images/i_216.jpg" width="220" height="180" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_217">217</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_217" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_217.jpg" width="567" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE COUNTRYMAN AND THE SNAKE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Villager found a Snake under a hedge, almost -dead with cold. Having compassion on the poor creature, -he brought it home, and laid it upon the hearth -near the fire, where it had not lain long before it revived -with the heat, and began to erect itself, and fly -at the wife and children of its preserver, filling the -whole cottage with its frightful hissings. The Countryman -hearing an outcry, came in, and perceiving -how the matter stood, took up a mattock, and soon -dispatched the ingrate, upbraiding him at the same -time in these words: Is 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.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_218">218</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> are some minds so depraved, and entirely -abandoned to wickedness, so dead to all virtuous -feelings, that the tenderness and humanity of others, -though exerted in their own favour, not only fail to -make a proper impression of gratitude upon them, but -are not able to restrain them from repaying benevolence -with injuries. Moralists, in all ages, have incessantly -declaimed against the enormity of this crime, -concluding that they who are capable of injuring their -benefactors, are not fit to live in a community; being -such as the natural 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 none -but the basest tempers can be guilty of it. Men of low -grovelling minds, who have been rescued from indigence -by the hand of benevolence, or of charity, forget -their benefactors, as well as their original wretchedness; -and as soon as prosperity flows upon them, it -too often serves only to rekindle their native rancour -and venom, and they hiss and brandish their tongues -against those who are so inadvertent or unfortunate as -to have served them. But prudent people need not to -be admonished on this subject; for they know how -much it behoves them to beware of taking a snake into -their bosom.</p> - -<div id="ip_218" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 9em;"> - <img src="images/i_218.jpg" width="129" height="88" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_219">219</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_219" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_219.jpg" width="561" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE COCK AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Cock, perched upon a lofty tree, crowed so loud, -that his voice echoed through the wood, and drew to -the place a Fox, who was prowling in quest of prey. -But Reynard finding the Cock was inaccessible, had -recourse to stratagem to decoy him down. Approaching -the tree, Cousin, says he, I am heartily glad to -see you; but I cannot forbear expressing my uneasiness -at the inconvenience of the place, which will not let me -pay my respects to you in a better manner, though -I suppose you will come down presently, and that -difficulty will be removed. Indeed, cousin, says the -Cock, to tell you the truth, I do not think it safe to -venture upon the ground; for, though I am convinced -how much you are my friend, yet I may have the misfortune -to fall into the clutches of some other beast,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_220">220</span> -and what will become of me then? O dear, says Reynard, -is it possible you do not know of the peace that -has been so lately proclaimed between all kinds of birds -and beasts; and that we are for the future to forbear -hostilities, and to live in harmony, under the severest -penalties. All 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 good way off. O then, says the Fox, your humble -servant, I must be gone. Nay, pray cousin do not go, -says the Cock, I am just coming down; sure you are -not afraid of the dogs in these peaceable times. No, -no, says he; but ten to one whether they have yet -heard of the proclamation!</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> moral of this Fable principally instructs us not -to be too credulous in believing the insinuations of -those who are already distinguished by their want of -faith and honesty, for perfidious people ought ever to -be suspected in the reports that favour their own interest. -When, therefore, any such would draw us -into a compliance with their destructive measures, by -a pretended civility, or plausible relation, we should -consider such proposals as a bait, artfully placed to -conceal some fatal hook, which is intended to draw us -into danger; and if by any simple counterplot we can -unmask the design and defeat the schemes of the wicked, -it will not only be innocent, but praise-worthy.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_221">221</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_221" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_221.jpg" width="567" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HARE AND THE TORTOISE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Hare vainly boasting of her great speed in running, -and casting a look of disdain upon a Tortoise, -that was slowly moving along, What a poor crawling -thing are you! said she: I can go over a territory of -country with the velocity of the wind, while you are -an hour in accomplishing a journey of half a furlong. -In a race I could leave you twenty miles behind me, in -the time you were about reaching the end of one. I -don’t know that, said the Tortoise, and will give you -a trial. Upon this, a match was made to run a certain -distance, and the Fox, who had heard the dispute, -was chosen umpire of the race. They then -started together, and away went the Hare with great -swiftness, and soon left the Tortoise out of sight, and -thinking herself certain of winning the race, she made -a jest of the matter, squatted down in a tuft of fern,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_222">222</span> -and took a nap, concluding she could easily make up -the lost ground, should the Tortoise at any time pass -by. Indulging in this security, she over-slept herself, -until the Tortoise, in a continued steady pace, arrived -first at the fixed distance, and won the race.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> must not flatter ourselves with coming to the -end of our journey in time, if we sleep by the way; -and unnecessary delays, in all pressing affairs, are just -so much time lost. Action is an important part of the -business of life; and “up and be doing” is a motto we -ought to keep in mind, as it has guided many a plain -plodding man, with steady aim, to carry his point effectually -in making his own fortune, and at the same -time gaining the esteem of the world. Industry and -application to business make amends for the want of a -quick and ready wit; but men of great natural abilities, -and vivacity of imagination, often presume too -much upon the superiority of their genius, and if to -this presumption they add pride and conceit, they despise -the drudgery of business, and suffer their affairs -to go to disorder or ruin, through idleness and neglect.</p> - -<div id="ip_222" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 17em;"> - <img src="images/i_222.jpg" width="268" height="185" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_223">223</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_223" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_223.jpg" width="563" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BLACKAMOOR.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Man having bought a Blackamoor, was so simple -as to think that the colour of his skin was only dirt -which he had contracted for want of due care under his -former master. This fault he fancied might easily be -removed by washing, so he ordered the poor Black to -be put into a tub, and was at a considerable charge in -providing ashes, soap, and scrubbing 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 Blackamoor caught cold and died.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_224">224</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<blockquote> - -<p><span class="firstword">“What’s</span> bred in the bone will never come out of -the flesh.”</p></blockquote> - -<p>Nature cannot by any art or labour be changed; -she may indeed be wrought upon and moulded by -good council and discipline; but it is in vain to attempt -a total transformation of our genius, person, or -complexion: therefore our application, assiduity, and -pains, when wrong directed, are of no avail. We -should, indeed, strive to discover which way the bent -of our genius lies, that we may apply ourselves to a -judicious cultivation and improvement of it; but we -ought to be sure never to thwart or oppose nature’s -fixed laws. When men aspire to eminence in any of -the various arts or sciences, without being gifted with -the innate powers or abilities for such attainments, it -is only like attempting to wash the Blackamoor white.</p> - -<div id="ip_224" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 30em;"> - <img src="images/i_224.jpg" width="468" height="243" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_225">225</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_225" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_225.jpg" width="557" height="399" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LION IN LOVE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Lion by chance saw a fair maid, the forester’s -daughter, as she was tripping over a lawn, and fell in -love with her. Nay, so violent was his passion, that -he could not live unless he made her his own; therefore, -without more delay, he broke his mind to the father, -and demanded the damsel for his wife. The -man, odd as the proposal seemed at first, soon recollected -that, by complying, he might get the Lion into -his power; but, by refusing him, should only exasperate -and provoke his rage. Accordingly, he seemed -to consent; but told him it must be upon these conditions: -that, considering the girl was young and tender, -he must let his teeth be plucked out, and his claws be -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<span class="pagenum" id="Page_226">226</span> -of his teeth and claws, than the treacherous forester -attacked him with a huge club, and knocked out his -brains.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Of</span> all the ill consequences that may attend the -blind passion of love, few prove so fatal as that of its -drawing people into a sudden and ill-concerted marriage. -In the midst of a fit of madness, they commit -a rash act, of which, as soon as they come to themselves, -they find reason to repent as long as they live. -Many an unthinking young man has 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 documents -which formed his title to it; and if he is so far captivated, -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, who will most likely -not fail to keep him in complete subjection, after they -have stripped him of all his power. Nothing but a -true friendship, and a mutual interest, can keep up a -reciprocal love between the conjugal pair, and when -these are wanting, contempt and aversion soon step -in to supply their place. Matrimony then becomes a -state of downright 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 reflect upon this (while they are in their sober -senses) who abhor the thoughts of being betrayed into -their ruin, by following the impulse of a blind unheeding -passion.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_227">227</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_227" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_227.jpg" width="563" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE HEDGEHOG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox, in swimming across a river, was forced -down by the rapidity of the stream to a place where -the bank was so steep and slippery, that he could not -ascend it. While he was struggling in this situation, -a swarm of flies settled on his head and eyes, and tormented -him grievously. A Hedgehog, who saw and -pitied his condition, offered to call in the assistance of -the Swallow to drive them away. No, no, friend, replies -the Fox, I thank you for your kind offer; but it -is better to let this swarm alone, for they are already -pretty well filled, and should they be driven away, a -fresh and more hungry set would succeed them, and -suck me until I should not have a drop of blood left in -my veins.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_228">228</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is recorded by Aristotle, who tells us -that Æsop spoke it to the Samians on occasion of a -popular sedition, to dissuade them from deposing their -great minister of state, lest they might, in getting rid -of one who was already glutted with their spoils, make -room for a more hungry and rapacious one in his stead. -By this it would appear, that some ministers of state -in ancient times, instead of being guided by integrity -and patriotism, were intent only upon filling their own -coffers, and aggrandizing and enriching their own relations, -from the plunder of the people whose affairs -they were entrusted with; and that they considered -them as their prey, rather than their charge. A succession -of such ministers, who can be countenanced by -weak monarchs only, is more calamitous to a nation -than plague, pestilence, and famine; for the effects of -their mal-administration do not end with their wicked -lives, but lay the foundation of ruin to nations that -would, under a patriotic government, have been virtuous, -great, and flourishing.</p> - -<div id="ip_228" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 10em;"> - <img src="images/i_228.jpg" width="147" height="208" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_229">229</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_229" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_229.jpg" width="560" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SPARROW AND THE HARE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Hare being seized by an Eagle, squeaked out in -a most woful manner. A Sparrow, that sat upon a -tree just by, and saw the affair, could not forbear -being unseasonably witty, but called out to the Hare: -So, ho! what, sit there and be killed! prithee up and -away; I dare say if you would but try, so swift a creature -as you are would easily escape from an Eagle. -As he was going on with his cruel raillery, down came -a Hawk and snapped him up, and notwithstanding his -cries and lamentations, fell to devouring him in an instant. -The Hare, who was just expiring, addressing -her last words to the Sparrow, said, You who just now -insulted my misfortune, with so much security as you -thought, may please to shew us how well you can bear -the like, now it has befallen you.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_230">230</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">To</span> insult people in distress, is the characteristic of -a cruel, indiscreet, and giddy temper; and he must -surely have a very bad heart, and no very good head, -who can look on the day of grief, and the hour of distress, -as a time for impertinent raillery. If any other -arguments were necessary, or might be supposed capable -of enforcing moral precepts on those who cannot -be actuated by humanity, it might be added, that the -vicissitudes of human affairs render such behaviour imprudent, -as well as barbarous; since we cannot tell -how soon we may be ourselves reduced to lament the -woes which are now the objects of our derision: for -nobody knows whose turn may be the next.</p> - -<div id="ip_230" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 32em;"> - <img src="images/i_230.jpg" width="502" height="218" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_231">231</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_231" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_231.jpg" width="567" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MAN AND HIS TWO WIVES.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Man, in times when polygamy was allowed, had -two wives, one of whom, like himself, had seen her -best days, and was verging upon the decline of life, -but possessed many engaging qualities. The other -was young and beautiful, and shared the affection of -her husband, whom she made as happy as he was capable -of being, but was not completely so herself. -The white hairs mixed with the black upon the good -man’s head, gave her some uneasiness, by proclaiming -the great disparity of their years; wherefore, under -colour of dressing his head, she plucked out the silver -hairs, that he might still have as few visible signs of an -advanced age as possible. The older dame, for reasons -directly opposite, esteemed these grey locks as -the honours of his head, and thought, while they gave -him a venerable look, they made her appear something<span class="pagenum" id="Page_232">232</span> -younger, so that every time she combed his head, she -took equal pains to extirpate the black hairs. Each -continued her project, unknown to the other, until the -poor man, who thought their desire to oblige him put -them upon this extraordinary officiousness in dressing -his head, found himself without any hair at all!</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> Christianity has banished polygamy, no immediate -moral can be derived by husbands from this Fable, -unless we conclude, that it is as impossible to serve two -mistresses as two masters; for whatever we do to please -the one, will probably offend the other. To conciliate -the affections of persons whose tempers are opposite, -is extremely difficult, if not impracticable. To wives -it may teach, that those 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 immediately -relating to their husbands, without consulting -them first. All that we shall add to what has been -said, is to observe, that many women may ignorantly, -out of a pure effect of complaisance, do a thousand disagreeable -things to their husbands. But in a married -state, one party should not be guessing at or presuming, -but inform themselves certainly, what will please -the other; and if a wife use her husband like a friend -only, the least she can do is first to communicate to -him all the important enterprizes she undertakes, and -especially those which she intends should be for his -honour and advantage.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_233">233</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_233" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_233.jpg" width="559" height="400" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">MERCURY AND THE CARVER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Mercury</span> being very desirous to know what credit -he had obtained in the world, and how he was esteemed -among mankind, disguised himself, and went to the -shop of a famous Statuary, where images were to be -sold. He saw Jupiter, Juno, and himself, and most -of the other gods and goddesses: so, pretending that -he wanted to buy, he asked the prices of several, and at -length pointing to Jupiter, What, says he, is the lowest -price you will take for that? A crown, says the other; -and what for that? pointing to Juno: I must have -something more for that. Mercury then, casting his -eye upon the figure of himself, with all his symbols -about it, Here am I, said he to himself, in quality of -Jupiter’s messenger, and the patron of artisans, with -all my trades about me; and then smiling with a self-sufficient -air, and pointing to the image, and pray<span class="pagenum" id="Page_234">234</span> -friend, what is the price of this elegant figure? Oh, -replied the Statuary, if you will buy Jupiter and Juno, -I will throw you that into the bargain.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">If</span> we knew ourselves, of what could any of us be -vain? Vanity is the fruit of ignorance, and the froth -of perverted pride. Humility is the constant attendant -on men of great talents and good qualities: these enable -them to see how far they are short of perfection; -but the vain and arrogant conceive they have attained -its height. All vain men, who affect popularity, fancy -other people have the same opinion of them that they -have of themselves; but nothing makes them look so -cheap and little in the eyes of discerning people as their -enquiring (like Mercury in the Fable) after their own -worth, and wanting to know what value others set upon -them: and those who are so full of themselves, as -to hunt for praise, and lay traps for commendation, -will generally be disappointed, and be marked out as -the emptiest of fellows; for it argues a littleness of -mind to be too anxious and solicitous concerning our -fame. He that behaves himself as he should do, need -not fear procuring a good share of respect, and a fair -reputation; but then these should not be the end or the -motive of our pursuits: our principal aim should be -the welfare of our country, our friends, and ourselves, -and should be directed by the rules of honour and -virtue.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_235">235</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_235" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_235.jpg" width="559" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE GOAT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox having tumbled, by chance, into a well, had -been ineffectually endeavouring a long while to get out -again, when, at last, a Goat came to the place, and -wanting to drink, asked Reynard whether the water -was good? Good! said he, aye, so sweet, that I am -afraid I have surfeited myself, I have drank so abundantly. -The Goat, upon this, without more consideration, -leapt in; when the Fox mounted upon his -back, and taking the advantage of his horns, bounded -up in an instant, and left the poor simple Goat at the -bottom of the well to shift for himself. Upon the -Goat’s reproaching him for his perfidy, Ah, Master -Goat, said he, you have far more hairs in your beard -than brains in your head.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_236">236</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Credulity</span> may be said to be the child of ignorance, -and the mother of distress. A wise man will not suffer -himself to be imposed upon by slender artifices and -idle tales; but the credulous man is easily deluded, and -subjects himself to numberless misfortunes. He is ever -the dupe of designing knaves, and of needy adventurers, -who are always intent upon serving themselves at -the expence of others. They fasten upon opulent men -of weak minds, as the objects of delusion, and for this -purpose, tempt them with proposals of apparently advantageous -schemes, which they have ready made out, -to entice their victims to embark along with them. By -credulity, they hope to establish their own fortune, -and provided this be done, they care not, even if the -ruin of their unsuspecting associates follow. It will -likewise ever be found that when an honest man and -a knave happen to become partners in the same common -interest, the latter, whenever necessity pinches, -will be sure to shift for himself, and leave the former -in the lurch.</p> - -<div id="ip_236" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 30em;"> - <img src="images/i_236.jpg" width="477" height="228" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_237">237</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_237" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_237.jpg" width="566" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">JUNO AND THE PEACOCK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Peacock complained to Juno, how hardly he -was used in not having so good a voice as the Nightingale. -That little bird, says he, charms every ear with -his melody, while my hoarse screamings disgust every -one who hears them. The Goddess, concerned at the -uneasiness of her favourite bird, answered him very -kindly to this purpose: If the Nightingale be blest with -a fine voice, you have the advantage in point of beauty -and majesty of person. Ah! said the Peacock, but -what avails my silent unmeaning beauty, when I am so -far excelled in voice? The Goddess dismissed him -with this advice: Consider that the properties of every -creature were appointed by the decree of fate: to you -beauty; strength to the Eagle; to the Nightingale a -voice of melody; the faculty of speech to the Parrot;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_238">238</span> -and to the Dove innocence. Each of these is contented -with his own peculiar quality; and unless you have -a mind to be miserable, you must learn to be so too.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> most useful lesson that we can possibly learn, -towards the attainment of happiness in this world, is -to enjoy those blessings that we have in our power, -without vainly pining after those which we have not. -Instead of being ambitious of having more endowments -than nature has allotted to us, we should spare no -pains to cultivate those we have; and which a sourness -or peevishness of temper, instead of improving, -will certainly lessen and impair. Whoever neglects -the happiness within his reach, in order to brood over -the consideration of how much happier he might have -been, had his situation been like that of others, ingeniously -contrives to torment himself, and opens a perpetual -source of discontent, which prevents his ever -being at ease. He does not reflect, or he would soon -discover, that all the desirable properties in the world -never centered in one man, and that those who have -had the greatest share of them, if of an unhappy disposition, -still wished for something more, and wanted to -possess some inherent gifts which shone forth in other -men: but such persons ought to be put in mind, that -it does not become mortals to repine at the will of -Heaven, which distributes happiness with an equal -hand upon the highest and the lowest of mankind, if -they were wise enough, and grateful enough, to perceive -it.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_239">239</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_239" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_239.jpg" width="560" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LION AND OTHER BEASTS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Lion having entered into an alliance with other -Beasts of prey, it was agreed, for their mutual advantage, -that they should hunt in company, and divide -the spoil. They accordingly met on a certain day, -and commenced the chase, and ere long they ran down -and killed a fine fat Deer, which was instantly divided -into four parts, there happening to be then only the -Lion and three others present. After the division was -made, the Lion advancing forward with an air of majesty, -and pointing to one of the shares, was pleased to -declare himself after the following manner: This I -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 title, -considering that the success of all the engagements<span class="pagenum" id="Page_240">240</span> -you have with the enemy depends chiefly upon my -courage and conduct; and you very well know that -wars are too expensive to be carried on without large -supplies. Then, nodding his head towards the third, -that I shall take by virtue of my prerogative, to which -I make no question 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 -present 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 hesitation or demur; -and hereof fail not at your peril.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">No</span> alliance is safe which is made with the wicked, if -they be superior to us in power. The most solemn -treaties will be disregarded as soon as they can be broken -with advantage. Powerful potentates, when they -are regardless of moral obligation, and consider might -only to be right, will never want specious pretences to -furbish out their declarations of war, nor hesitate about -inveigling less powerful states to join them, and after -subduing the enemy, and seizing upon the spoils, will -fall upon their allies on the slightest pretences, or for -no better reason but because they are powerful enough -to do so. No man ought to be entrusted with unlimited -power; and when a community has been stupid -enough to put the management of their affairs into such -hands, they have ever found their confidence abused, -and their property invaded.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_241">241</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_241" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_241.jpg" width="557" height="401" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">JUPITER AND PALLAS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Once</span> upon a time, the Heathen Gods agreed to -adopt each a particular tree into their patronage. Jupiter -chose the Oak; Venus was pleased to name the -Myrtle; Apollo pitched upon the Laurel; Cybele took -the Pine; and Hercules the Poplar. Pallas being present, -expressed her surprise at their fancy, in making -choice of trees that bore nothing. Oh, says Jupiter, -the reason of that is plain enough, for we would not be -thought to dispense our favours with any mercenary -view. You may do as you please, says she, but let -the Olive be my tree; and I declare my reason for -choosing it is, because it bears plenty of noble useful -fruit. Upon which the Thunderer, putting on a serious -composed gravity, spoke thus to the Goddess: Indeed -daughter, it is not without cause that you are so<span class="pagenum" id="Page_242">242</span> -celebrated for your wisdom; for unless some benefit -attend our actions, to perform them for the sake of -glory is but a silly business.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">In</span> all our actions, we should intend something useful -and beneficial; for the standing value of all things -is in proportion to their use. To undertake affairs -with no other view but that of empty glory, whatever -some curious dreamers may fancy, is employing our -time after a very foolish manner. The Almighty created -the world out of his infinite goodness, for the good -of his creatures, and not out of a passion for glory, -which is a vain, silly, mean principle; and when we -talk of glorifying the Author of our being, if we think -reasonably, we must mean shewing our gratitude to -him, by imitating this goodness of his, as far as we are -able, and endeavouring to make some good or other -the aim of all our undertakings. For if empty glory -be unworthy the pursuit of a wise man, how vastly improper -must it be to make an offering of it to an all-wise -Deity.</p> - -<div id="ip_242" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_242.jpg" width="378" height="224" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_243">243</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_243" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_243.jpg" width="557" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE VIPER AND THE FILE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Viper having entered a smith’s shop, looked up -and down for something to eat; when, casting his eye -upon a file, he greedily seized upon it, and fell to -gnawing it with his teeth. After he had spent some -time in his attempts to devour it, the File told him -very gruffly, that he had better be quiet and let him -alone; for he would get very little by nibbling at one -who, upon occasion, could bite iron and steel.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is levelled at those spiteful people who -take so malignant a pleasure in the design of hurting -others, as not to feel and understand that they hurt -only themselves; and at those who are blinded by envy, -which prompts them rather than not bite at all, to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_244">244</span> -fall foul where they cannot expect their nibbling will -meet with any thing but disappointment, as every one -must who is biting at that which is too hard for his -teeth. Thus it is that spite and malignity, which are -twin brothers, and the offspring of envy, are, as well -as their parent, their own tormentors. They intend -that the wounds they inflict should be deadly, and the -greatest wits and brightest characters in all ages have -been the objects of their attacks; but the brilliancy -of truth and justice at length shines forth, and shews -the deformity of such characters in the clearest light. -Other people, of the same character and disposition, -though of minor consideration indeed, ought not to -be passed over unnoticed. These may be called nibblers, -who let their tongues slip very freely, in censuring -the actions of persons who, in the esteem of -the world, are of such an unquestionable reputation, -that nobody will believe what is insinuated against -them, and of such influence through their own veracity, -that the least word from them would ruin the -credit of such adversaries to all intents and purposes. -The efforts of little villains of this stamp, like dirty liquor -squirted against the wind, recoil back and bespatter -their own faces; or like the shades of a picture, -serve to set off the brilliant tints of the opposite virtues, -which support and adorn society.</p> - -<div id="ip_244" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 10em;"> - <img src="images/i_244.jpg" width="149" height="201" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_245">245</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_245" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_245.jpg" width="557" height="401" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE WOLF IN SHEEP’S CLOTHING.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Wolf disguising himself in the skin of a sheep, -and getting in among the flock, easily caught and devoured -many of them. At last the Shepherd discovered -him, and cunningly watched the opportunity -of slipping a noose about his neck, and immediately -hung him up on the branch of a tree. Some other -Shepherds observing what he was about, drew near -and expressed their surprize at it. Brother Shepherd! -says one of them, what! are you hanging your sheep? -No, replies the other, but I am hanging a Wolf in -Sheep’s clothing, and shall never fail to do the same, -whenever I can catch one of them in that garb. The -Shepherds then expressed themselves pleased at his -dexterity, and applauded the justice of the execution.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_246">246</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> ought not to judge of men by their looks, or -their dress and appearances, but by the character of -their lives and conversation, and by their works; for -when we do not examine these, we must not be surprized -if we find that we have mistaken evil for good, -and instead of an innocent sheep, taken a wolf in disguise -under our protection. The finished hypocrite, -by assuming the character of virtue, makes the vice -more odious and abominable, and when the mask is -torn off, and fraud and imposture are detected, every -honest man rejoices in the punishment of the offender. -Men who have not had good, religious, and moral -principles early instilled into their minds, find no barrier -to check their propensity to evil, and get hardened -as they advance in years; and even the most liberal -education, if it want the foundation of truth and honesty, -is often a curse instead of a blessing, and the -objects of it fail to do honour either to themselves or -to their country. Thus it is we see tyranny stalking -along under the mask of care and protection. Injustice -sets up the letter of the law against its spirit. -Oppression strips the widow and the orphan, and at -the same time preaches up mercy and compassion. -Treachery covers itself under a cloak of kindness; and -above all, it is peculiarly painful to find numbers of -men, even of the learned professions, who ought to -set an example of probity and honour, misapply their -abilities to twist and pervert the sacred meaning of -both law and gospel to the basest and worst of purposes.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_247">247</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_247" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_247.jpg" width="562" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE STAG IN THE OX-STALL.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Stag, pursued by the hunters, took refuge in a -stable, and begged of the Oxen, to suffer him to conceal -himself under the straw in one of the stalls. They -told him that he would be in great danger there, for -both the master and the servants would soon come to -fodder them, and then he might be sure of meeting -his doom. Ah! says the Stag, if you will be so good -as not betray me, I hope I shall be safe enough. Presently, -in came a servant, who gave a careless look -around, and then went out without any discovery. All -the other servants of the farm came and went like the -first. Upon this, the Stag began to exult, imagining -himself quite secure; but a shrewd old Ox told him -that he was reckoning upon his safety too soon, for -there was another person to come, by whom he would -not so readily be looked over. Accordingly, by and -by came the master, who carefully peeped into every -corner, and at last, in turning over the litter, discovered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_248">248</span> -the Stag’s horns sticking out of the straw: upon -which, he called all his servants back, and soon made -prize of the poor creature.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is levelled against those worthless hirelings, -who slide over their time in negligent disorder, -and this not so much for want of capacity as honesty; -their own private interest almost solely occupying their -attention, while that of their master, whose wages they -receive, and whose bread they eat, is postponed, or -entirely neglected. Such servants deserve not to be -inmates in any good man’s house; but where they are, -it is absolutely necessary for the governors of families to -look into their affairs with their own eyes; for though -they may happen not to be in personal danger from the -treachery of their domestics, they are perpetually liable -to injuries from their negligence, which leaves the -master open to the artifices of those who would defraud -him. Few families are reduced to poverty merely by -their own extravagance: the inattention of servants -swells every article of expence in domestic economy; -and the retinue of great men, instead of exerting their -industry to increase their master’s wealth, commonly -exercise no other office than that of caterpillars, to -consume and devour it. The fate of the Stag also -warns us not to engage in any hazardous speculation, -the success of which is to depend upon the ignorance -or carelessness of those with whom we have to deal; for -though we may over-reach one or two, yet some master-eye -is sure at last to pierce our covering of straw, -and make us pay dearly for deviating from the straight -road of candour and prudence.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_249">249</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_249" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_249.jpg" width="553" height="398" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOWLER AND THE RING-DOVE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fowler took his gun, and went into the woods a-shooting. -He spied a Ring-dove among the branches -of an Oak, and clapping the piece to his shoulder, took -his aim, and made himself sure of killing it. But just -as he was going to pull the trigger, an Adder, which -he had trod upon under the grass, bit him so painfully -in the leg, that he was obliged to quit his design, and -throw his gun down in an agony. The venom immediately -infected his blood, and his whole body began -to mortify; which, when he perceived, he could not -help owning it to be just. Fate, says he, has brought -destruction upon me, while I was contriving the death -of another.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_250">250</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> mischief that bad men meditate to others, commonly, -like a judgment, falls upon their own heads; -and the punishment of wickedness is so just in itself -that the sufferer, who has made others feel it, cannot, -if he think rightly, but confess that he deserves the -like inflicted on himself. The hardened unfeeling -heart of a cruel and unjust man, can, however, continue -to do a thousand bitter things to others, until he -tastes calamity himself, and then only it is that he feels -the insupportable uneasiness it occasions. Why should -we think others born to hard treatment more than -ourselves, or imagine it can be reasonable to do to -another what we should think very hard to suffer in -our own persons?</p> - -<div id="ip_250" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_250.jpg" width="444" height="299" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_251">251</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_251" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_251.jpg" width="566" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HARES AND THE FROGS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Hares in a certain park having met to consult -upon some plan to preserve themselves from their numerous -enemies, all agreed that life was full of care -and misery, and that they saw no prospect of things -changing for the better. Full of these desponding -thoughts, and just as it had been proposed that they -should put an end to their existence, a storm arose, -which tore the branches from the trees, and whirled the -leaves about their ears. Panic-struck, they ran like -mad creatures, until they were stopped by a lake, into -which they hastily resolved to throw themselves headlong, -rather than lead a life so full of dangers and -crosses: but upon their approaching its margin, a number -of Frogs, which were sitting there, frightened at -their sudden approach, in the greatest confusion leapt -into the water, and dived to the bottom; which an old<span class="pagenum" id="Page_252">252</span> -Hare, more sedate than the rest, observing, called out, -Have a care what ye do! Here are other creatures I -perceive, which have their fears as well as we. Dont -then let us fancy ourselves the most miserable of any -upon earth; but rather, by their example, learn to -bear patiently those inconveniences which nature has -thrown upon us.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is designed to shew us how unreasonable -many people are, who live in continual fears and -disquiet about the miserableness of their condition. -There is hardly any state of life great enough to satisfy -the wishes of an ambitious man; and scarcely any -so mean, but may supply the necessities of him that is -moderate. There are few beings so very wretched, -that they cannot pick out others in a more deplorable -situation, and with whom they would not change cases. -The rich man envies the poor man’s health, without -considering his wants; and the poor man envies the -other’s treasure, without considering his diseases. The -miseries of others should serve to add vigour to our -minds, and teach us to bear up against the load of -lighter misfortunes. 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 a -mouse behind the hangings, the fluttering of a moth, -or the motion of their own shadow by moon-light! -Their whole life is as full of alarms as that of a Hare, -and they never think themselves so easy as when, like -the timorous folks in the Fable, they meet with a set -of creatures as fearful as themselves.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_253">253</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_253" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_253.jpg" width="562" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MOUNTAINS IN LABOUR.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Mountains were said to be in labour, and uttered -the most dreadful groans. People came together, -far and near, to see what birth would be produced; -and after they had waited a considerable time in expectation, -out crept a Mouse.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Projectors</span> of all kinds, who endeavour by artful -rumours, large promises, and vast preparations, to -raise the expectations of mankind, and then by their -mean performances disappoint them, have, time out of -mind, been lashed with the recital of this Fable. It -should teach us to suspect those who promise very -largely, and to examine cautiously what grounds they -proceed upon, and whether their pretensions are not<span class="pagenum" id="Page_254">254</span> -intended to render us their tools, or the dupes of their -artifices. It likewise teaches us not to rely implicitly -upon those constant declarations for liberty and the -public good, which artful politicians use as stepping -stones to power; but who having raised the people’s expectations -to the highest pitch, and obtained their desire -by the public enthusiasm, then turn their whole art -and cunning to embezzling the public treasure for their -own private wicked ends, or to ruin and enslave their -country; or at best but imitate the bad conduct of -those whom they turned out by their clamour, while -the sanguine hopes of all those that wished well to virtue, -and flattered themselves with a reformation of -every thing that opposed the well-being of the community, -vanish away in smoke, and are lost in a gloomy -uncomfortable prospect. The Fable likewise intimates, -that the uncertain issue of all human undertakings -should induce us not to make pompous boasts of ourselves, -but to guard against promising any thing exceedingly -great, for fear of coming off with a production -ridiculously little. If we set out modestly, and -perform more than we engaged to do, we shall find -our fame grow upon us, and every unexpected addition -we make to our plan will raise us more and more in -the good opinion of the world; but if, on the contrary, -we make ample professions of the greatness of our designs, -and the excellence of our own abilities, it will -too often happen, that instead of swelling our reputation, -we shall only blow the trumpet to our shame.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_255">255</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_255" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_255.jpg" width="563" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE VAIN JACK-DAW.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Jack-daw was so proud and ambitious, -that, not contented to live within his own sphere, he -picked up the feathers which fell from the Peacocks, -stuck them in among his own, and very confidently -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 presumption deserved. -Upon this, full of grief and affliction, he returned to -his old companions, and would have lived with them -again; but they, knowing his late life and conversation, -industriously avoided him, and refused to admit -him into their company; and one of them, at the same -time, gave him this serious reproof: If, friend, you -could have been contented with our station, and had -not disdained the rank in which nature had placed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_256">256</span> -you, you had not been used so scurvily by those upon -whom you intruded yourself, nor suffered the notorious -slight which now we think ourselves obliged to put -upon you.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">To</span> aim at making a figure by the means of either -borrowed wit, or borrowed money, generally subjects -us at last to a ten-fold ridicule. A wise man, therefore, -will take his post quietly, in his own station, -without pretending to fill that of another, and never -affect to look bigger than he really is, by means of a -false or borrowed light. It shews great weakness and -vanity in any man to be pleased at making an appearance -above what he really is; but if to enable him to -do so with something of a better grace, he has clandestinely -feathered his nest out of his neighbour’s goods, -it is a pity if he should not be found out, stripped of -his plunder, and treated like a felonious rogue into -the bargain.</p> - -<div id="ip_256" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_256.jpg" width="383" height="261" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_257">257</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_257" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_257.jpg" width="567" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LION AND THE MOUSE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Lion having laid down to take his repose under -the spreading boughs of a shady tree, a company of -Mice scampered over his back and waked him. Upon -which, starting up, he clapped his paw upon one of -them, and was just going to put it to death, when the -little suppliant implored his mercy, begging him not -to stain his noble character with the blood of so small -and insignificant a creature. The Lion, touched with -compassion, instantly released his little trembling captive. -Not long after, traversing the forest in search -of his prey, he chanced to run into the toils of the -hunters, and not being able to disengage himself, he -set up a loud roar. The Mouse hearing the voice, -and knowing it to be the Lion’s, immediately repaired -to the place, and bade him fear nothing, for that he -was his friend. Instantly he fell to work, and with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_258">258</span> -his little sharp teeth gnawed asunder the knots and -fastenings of the toils, and set the royal brute at liberty.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">They</span> who generously shower benefits on their fellow-creatures, -seldom fail of inspiring the great bulk -of them with a benevolent regard for their benefactors, -and often receive returns of kindness which they never -expected. Mercy is of all other virtues the most likely -to kindle gratitude in those to whom it is extended, -and it is difficult to find an instance of a conqueror -who ever had occasion to repent of his humanity and -clemency. The Fable gives us 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, it is good to shew favour, -when there is room for it, towards those who -fall into our power. As the lowest people in life may, -upon occasion, be able either to serve or hurt us, it is -as much our interest as our duty to behave with good-nature -and lenity towards all with whom we have any -intercourse. A great soul is never so much delighted -as when an opportunity offers of making a return for -favours received; and a sensible man, however exalted -his station, will never consider himself secure from the -necessity of accepting a service from the poorest.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_259">259</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_259" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_259.jpg" width="563" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TORTOISE AND THE EAGLE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Tortoise, weary of his condition, by which he -was confined to creep upon the ground, and ambitious -to look about him with a larger prospect, proclaimed -that if any bird would take him up into the air, and -shew him the world, he would reward him with the -discovery of an invaluable treasure, which he knew was -hidden in a certain place of the earth. The Eagle accepted -the offer, and having performed his undertaking, -gently set the Tortoise again on the ground, and -demanded the reward. The Tortoise was obliged to -confess that he could not fulfil his promise, which he -had made only with the view of having his fancy gratified. -The Eagle, stung with resentment at being thus -duped, grasped him again in his talons, and then soaring -to a great height, let him fall, by which he was -dashed to pieces.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_260">260</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Men</span> of honour are careful not to tarnish their reputations -by falsifying their word, and always consider -well how far it may be in their power to fulfil their -promises before they make them. They always strive -to walk on the straight line of rectitude; and should -they, in an unguarded moment, happen to stagger -from it, they instantly retrace their steps, and feel unhappy -until they have regained their station. There -is a simplicity in truth and virtue, which requires no -artifices, and never leads us into difficulties, but points -out the plain and safe way. Deceit and cunning, on -the contrary, involve those who practise them in a -maze, and they are bewildered in their own falsehoods, -from which no dexterity can extricate them. The -brain-racking schemes which villains practise to delude -others, are commonly detected, and end in the unpitied -punishment of themselves; for they seldom discover -the folly of being wicked, until it has betrayed -them into their ruin. But such persons would do well -to refresh their memories with the old adage which -says, that “all knaves are fools, but all fools are not -knaves.”</p> - -<div id="ip_260" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 26em;"> - <img src="images/i_260.jpg" width="410" height="147" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_261">261</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_261" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_261.jpg" width="563" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE POLECAT AND THE COCK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Polecat, that had long committed depredations -on the farm-yard, having a mind to make a meal of -the blood of the Cock, seized him one morning by surprize, -and asked him what he could say for himself -why slaughter should not pass upon him? The Cock -replied, that he was serviceable to mankind by crowing -in the morning, and calling them up to their daily labour. -That is true, says the Polecat, and is the very -objection that I have against you, for you make such -a shrill impertinent noise, that people cannot sleep for -you. Besides, 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 Polecat, hold your wicked tongue,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_262">262</span> -such impieties as these declare that you are no longer -fit to live.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> 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 -practice of wrong and robbery. Remonstrances, however -reasonably urged, or movingly couched, have no -more influence upon the hearts of such, 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 upon its sides. -Power should never be trusted in the hands of an impious -selfish man, and one that has more regard to the -gratification of his own insatiable desires, than to public -peace and justice; but as a wicked son may succeed -to the station of a virtuous and patriotic father, care -should be taken to guard against a surprise, by a vigilant -watchfulness of the encroaching nature of power, -even when in benevolent hands, that those checks may -not be undermined which counteract its abuse in bad -ones. Had the poor Cock exerted his usual vigilance, -it would have served him much more effectually than -either his innocence or his eloquence.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_263">263</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_263" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_263.jpg" width="563" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOWLER AND THE BLACKBIRD.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fowler was busy placing his nets, and putting his -tackle in order, by the side of a coppice, when a Blackbird, -who was perched on an adjacent tree, eyed him -with great attention; but being at a loss to know the -use of all this apparatus and preparation, had the curiosity -to ask him what he was doing. I am, says the -Fowler, building a fine city for you birds to live in, -and providing it with meat and all manner of conveniences -for you. Having said this, he departed and hid -himself, and the Blackbird, believing his words, came -into the nets and was taken; but when the man ran -up to seize his captive, the Bird thus addressed him: -If this be your faith, and these the cities you build, it -will be a great pity if you should ever again persuade -any poor simple bird to try to inhabit them.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_264">264</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> fowler’s professions of friendship for the birds, -while he aimed at their destruction, may be paralleled -by too many instances in real life; and however mortifying -it may be to reflect upon, yet so it is, that the -designing knave far too often succeeds in his deep-laid -schemes to ensnare, over-reach, and ruin the honest -and the unsuspecting man. Planners and projectors of -this character, both of high and low degree, are suffered -to roam at large, and it behoves the inexperienced to -guard against their plots with a watchful eye; for while -they smoothly disclaim taking any mean advantage over -those they are addressing, with their plausible pretensions, -their sole study and aim is to fill their own pockets, -and then to hug themselves with the thoughts of -their success, and to laugh at those whom they have -duped. As long as people can be found credulous -enough to suffer themselves to be imposed upon, so -long will there arise gentry of this description, who -will live in affluence by taking advantage of their weakness.</p> - -<div id="ip_264" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 33em;"> - <img src="images/i_264.jpg" width="515" height="284" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"><i>There will be sleeping enough in the Grave.</i></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_265">265</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_265" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_265.jpg" width="563" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE NURSE AND THE WOLF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Nurse, who was endeavouring to quiet a froward -child, among other things 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 the time, heard the expression, and believing the -woman to be in earnest, waited a long while about the -house, in expectation of having her words made good. -But at last the child, wearied with its own perverseness, -fell asleep, and the Wolf was forced to return -back into the woods, empty and supperless. The Fox -meeting him, and surprized 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.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_266">266</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Many</span> of the old moralists have interpreted this Fable -as a caution never to trust a woman: a barbarous -inference, which neither the obvious sense of the apologue, -nor the disposition of the softer sex will warrant. -For though some women may be fickle and unstable, -yet the generality exceed their calumniators in truth -and constancy, and have more frequently to complain of -being the victims, than to be arraigned as the authors of -broken vows. To us this Fable appears to mean little -more than merely to shew how easily inclined we are, -in all our various expectations through life, to delude -ourselves into a belief of any thing which we desire to -be true. The lover interprets every smile of his mistress -in his own favour, and is then perhaps neglected. -The beauty believes all mankind are dying for her, -and is then deserted by her train of admirers. The -followers of the great reckon a smile or a nod very auspicious -omens, and deceive themselves with groundless -hopes of employment or promotion, in expectation of -which, they, like the Wolf at the Nurse’s door, dangle -away the time that might be usefully employed elsewhere, -and at last are obliged to retire disappointed -and hungry, crying out perhaps against the perfidy of -those in power, instead of blaming their own sanguine -credulity.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_267">267</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_267" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_267.jpg" width="565" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HARPER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Man who used to play upon the harp, and sing -to it, in little ale-houses, and made a shift in those -narrow confined walls to please the dull sots who heard -him, from hence entertained an ambition of shewing his -parts in 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 scarcely either of them could be -heard, and where they could, his performance sounded -so poor, so low, and wretched, in the ears of his refined -audience, that he was universally hissed off the stage.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_268">268</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> 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 this -caution, many a vain unthinking man has at once exposed -himself to the censure of the world. A buffoon, -though he 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, may be very -agreeable to a company disposed to be mirthful over -a glass of wine. 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 performance of the first rate. -We should have either allowed abilities to please the -most refined tastes, or judgment enough to know that -we want them, and to have a care how we submit ourselves -to the trial. And, if we have a mind to pursue -a just and true ambition, it is not sufficient that we -study barely to please; but it is of the greatest moment -whom we please, and in what respect, otherwise -we may not only lose our labour, but make ourselves -ridiculous into the bargain.</p> - -<div id="ip_268" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_268.jpg" width="438" height="231" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_269">269</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_269" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_269.jpg" width="535" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE ANT AND THE FLY.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">In</span> a dispute between the Ant and the Fly concerning -precedency, the latter thus boasted: I have, said -he, the uppermost seats at church, and even frequent -the altars; I am taster to the gods, and a partaker of -all their sacrifices; I am admitted into the palaces of -kings, and enjoy myself at every entertainment provided -for the princes of the earth, and all this without -having occasion to labour. What have you to boast -of, poor sorry drudge, crawling upon the earth, living -in caverns and holes, and with constant exertion gathering -up a grain of corn to support a wretched existence? -Indeed! said the Ant, I pretend to none of -these fine things. Visiting the great, and partaking -of their festivals and sacrifices, might be entitled to -some consideration, were you invited; but you are only -an impudent intruder in such places. My time, indeed, -is spent differently: I lead a life of industry,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_270">270</span> -which is crowned with health and vigour, and I am -constantly held up as an example of prudence and -foresight. I provide for present comforts and future -wants, and court not the favors, nor dread the frowns, -of any one; while your laziness and vanity make you a -beggarly intruder wherever you hope to get a present -supply. You may, perhaps, sip honey one day, but on -the next you batten on carrion; and having propagated -a numerous progeny, equally as noxious and useless -as yourself, I then behold you from my comfortable, -warm, well-stored mansion, in the winter of your -days, starving to death with hunger and cold.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> worthless part of mankind, who pass through -the world without being of any service in it, and without -acquiring the least reputation, seldom fail of adding -empty pride to all their other failings, and behave -with arrogance towards those who contribute to the -comforts and happiness of society. They treat industrious -persons as wretched drudges, appointed to labour -for a poor subsistence, while they think themselves -entitled to enjoy all the good things of this life, -though they of all others least deserve them. But the -worthy and industrious will generally find that the -pride and extravagance of these idle flies, bring them -at last to shame, if not to want, while their own honest -labours secure a good name, a happy mind, and a -sufficiency for their wants, if not a state of affluence. -In short, no one is a better gentleman than he whose -own honest industry supplies him with all necessaries, -and who pretends to no more acquaintance with honour -than never to say or do a mean or an unjust thing.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_271">271</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_271" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_271.jpg" width="566" height="398" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MOUSE AND THE WEASEL.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> thin hungry Mouse, after much pushing and -twisting, crept through a small hole, into a corn basket, -where he gorged himself so plentifully, that on -his attempting to retire by the same passage, he found -himself so swelled out, that, with all his endeavours, -he could not squeeze through again. A Weasel, who -stood at some distance, and had been diverting himself -with the vain efforts of the little glutton, called to -him sneeringly, Hark ye, Mr Mouse! remember that -you were lean and half-starved when you got in at that -small hole; and take my word for it, you must be as -lean and half-starved before you can make your way -out again.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_272">272</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">That</span> portion of mankind, whose inordinate desires -push them on to stick at nothing in acquiring wealth, -are seldom the most happy; for covetousness, which -never produced one noble sentiment, often urges its -votaries to break through the rules of justice, and then -deprives them of the expected fruits of their iniquity. -Besides great riches and care are almost inseparable; -and there is often a quiet and content attending upon -people of moderate circumstances, to which the wealthy -man is an utter stranger. It has happened, even to -monarchs, that their inroads on the possessions of -others have tended to the detriment of the aggressor, -who has been obliged to resign the rich spoils obtained -by unjustifiable hostilities, and to refund the ill-gotten -wealth, with a very bad grace: a punishment which -Providence has wisely annexed to acts of violence and -fraud, as the best security of the possessions of the -just and virtuous, against the attempts of the wicked. -Some men, from creeping in the lowest stations of life, -have in process of time reached the greatest places, and -grown so bulky by pursuing their insatiate appetite for -money, that when they would have retired, 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 measure to their primitive -littleness. They that fill themselves with that -which is the property of others, should always be so -served before they are suffered to escape.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_273">273</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_273" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_273.jpg" width="538" height="399" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE EAGLE AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Eagle that had young ones, looking for something -to feed them with, happened to spy a Fox’s Cub -that lay basking itself abroad in the sun: she made a -stoop, and trussed it immediately; but before she had -carried it quite off, the old Fox coming home, implored -her, with tears, to spare her Cub, and pity the -distress of a poor fond mother, who would think no -affliction so great as that of losing her child. The -Eagle, whose nest was high in an old hollow tree, -thought herself secure from all projects of revenge, and -so bore away the Cub to her young ones, without -shewing any regard to the supplications of the Fox. -But that subtle creature, highly incensed at this outrageous -barbarity, ran to an altar, where some country -people had been sacrificing a kid in the open fields,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_274">274</span> -and catching up a fire-brand in her mouth, made towards -the tree where the Eagle’s nest was, with a resolution -of revenge. She had scarcely reached its root, -when the Eagle, terrified with the approaching ruin of -herself and family, begged of the Fox to desist, and, -with much submission, returned her the Cub safe and -sound.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> men in high situations happen to be wicked, -how little scruple do they make of oppressing their -poor neighbours! They are perched upon a lofty station, -and, having outgrown all feelings of humanity, -are insensible to the pangs of remorse. The widow’s -tears, the orphan’s cries, and the curses of the miserable, -fall by the way, and never reach their hearts. -But let such, in the midst of their flagrant injustice, -remember how easy it is, notwithstanding their superior -distance, for the meanest vassal to take his revenge. -The bitterness of affliction (even where cunning -is wanting) may animate the poorest spirit with -desperate resolutions; and when once the fury of revenge -is thoroughly awakened, we know not what she -may effect before she is lulled to rest again. The most -powerful tyrants cannot prevent a resolved assassination: -there are a thousand different ways for any private -man to do the business, who is heartily disposed -to it, and willing to satisfy his appetite for revenge, at -the expence of his life. An old woman may clap a -fire-brand to the palace of a prince, and a poor weak -fool may destroy the children of the mighty.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_275">275</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_275" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_275.jpg" width="562" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BELLY AND THE MEMBERS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">In</span> former days, it happened that the Members of -the human body, taking some offence at the conduct -of the Belly, resolved no longer to grant it the usual -supplies. The Tongue first, in a seditious speech, aggravated -their grievances; and after highly extolling -the activity and diligence of the Hands and Feet, set -forth how hard and unreasonable it was, that the fruits -of their labour should be squandered away upon the -insatiable cravings of a fat and indolent paunch. In -short, it was resolved for the future to strike off his -allowance, and let him shift for himself as well as he -could. The Hands protested they would not lift a Finger -to keep him from starving; and the Teeth refused -to chew a single morsel more for his use. In this distress, -the Belly remonstrated with them in vain; for -during the clamour of passion the voice of reason is<span class="pagenum" id="Page_276">276</span> -always disregarded. This unnatural resolution was -kept as long as any thing of that kind can be kept, -which was, until each of the rebel members pined -away to the skin and bone, and could hold out no -longer. Then they found there was no doing without -the Belly, and, that idle and insatiable as it seemed, -it contributed as much to the welfare of all the other -parts, as they in their several stations did towards its -maintenance.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable was spoken by Menenius Agrippa, a -Roman consul and general, when he was deputed by -the senate to appease a dangerous tumult and insurrection -of the people. The many wars the Romans were -engaged in, and the frequent supplies they were obliged -to raise, had so soured and inflamed the minds of -the populace, that they were resolved to endure it no -longer, and obstinately refused to pay the taxes. It is -easy to discern how the great man applied this Fable: -for, if the branches and members of a community refuse -the government that aid which its necessities require, -the whole must perish together. The rulers of -a state, useless or frivolous as they may sometimes seem, -are yet as necessary to be kept up and maintained in -a proper and decent grandeur, as the family of each -private person is, in a condition suitable to itself. -Every man’s enjoyment of that little which he gains -by his daily labour, depends upon the government’s -being maintained in a condition to defend and secure -him in the unmolested control and possession of it.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_277">277</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_277" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_277.jpg" width="560" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FATAL MARRIAGE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Mouse being ambitious of marrying into a noble -family, paid his addresses to a young Lioness, and at -length succeeded in entering into a treaty of marriage -with her. When the day appointed for the nuptials -arrived, the bridegroom set out in a transport of joy -to meet his beloved bride; and coming up to her, -passionately threw himself at her feet; but she, like a -giddy thing as she was, not minding how she walked, -accidentally set her foot upon her little spouse, and -crushed him to death.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is very unsafe for persons of low estate to form -connections with those of a very superior situation. -When wealthy persons of mean extraction and unrefined<span class="pagenum" id="Page_278">278</span> -education, as an equivalent for their money, demand -brides out of the nursery of the peerage, if they -should not be ruined by the giddy extravagance of -their high-born wives, their being despised, or at least -treated with neglect, is almost certain. But indeed, -much unhappiness follows the want of a sound judgment -in the choice of a partner for life, whether it be -in high or low, rich or poor. No human contract is -of so important, as well as delicate a nature, as marriage. -It is one of the grand epochs in the history -of a man. It is an engagement which should be -voluntary, judicious, and disinterested, and can never -be attended with honour, or blessed with happiness, -if it has not its origin in mutual affection. If it -be either unsuitable or compulsory, it produces not -only individual misery, but consequences universally -pernicious. Sordid interest and vile dependence may -indeed sometimes act so powerfully, as to set nature -and true convenience aside, so as to make the yoke -which is jointly borne by the improper union of the high -and low, or by age and youth, put on an appearance -of regard for each other; but natural affection must -needs be wanting on one side or the other. Nature -has, however, with a strong hand, pointed out the path -to be pursued, and a few prudential rules only are necessary -to keep us within it. If a man is of an unsound -constitution, or if he cannot provide for a family, let -him forbear matrimony: it is the duty of every man -who marries, to take a healthy woman for his wife, for -the sake of his children, and an amiable one, for his -own comfort. The same precaution ought to be taken -by the fair sex, unless they can make up their minds to -become nurses to tainted worn-out husbands, and their -puny nerveless offspring.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_279">279</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_279" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_279.jpg" width="551" height="400" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE YOUNG MAN AND THE LION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> opulent Old Man, who believed in omens and -dreams, had an only Son, of whom he was dotingly -fond. One night he dreamt that he saw the Young -Man, while he was eagerly engaged in the chase, seized -upon and torn in pieces by a Lion. This operated -upon his fears to such a degree, that he instantly determined -upon breaking off his Son’s strong propensity -to hunting, that he might be kept out of harm’s -way. For this purpose, he spared neither pains nor -expence to make home agreeable to him. He had -the rooms decorated with the finest paintings of forest -scenery, and the hunting of wild beasts, with the reality -of which the youth had been so much delighted; -but the Young Man, debarred from his favourite pleasures, -considered the palace a prison, and his father -as the keeper. One day, when looking at the pictures, -he cast his eye upon that of a Lion, and, enraged that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_280">280</span> -he was confined for a dream about such a beast, he -struck at the painting with his fist, with all his might. -There happened to be a nail in the wall behind the -canvas, which lacerated the hand terribly. The wound -festered, and threw the Young Man into a fever, of -which he died; so that the Father’s dream was fulfilled -by the very step he took to prevent it.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Those</span> people who govern their lives by forebodings -and dreams, and signs of ill-luck, are kept in a state -of constant anxiety and uneasiness. Such a disposition -is grounded on superstition, which is the offspring of a -narrow mind, and adds greatly to the evils with which -life is sufficiently loaded. Heaven has kindly concealed -from us the knowledge of futurity, and it is therefore -foolish for us to attempt to pry into it, or to disturb -our minds with absurd conceptions of events which -are only realised by our ridiculous precautions against -them. How inconsistent is the conduct of people who -imagine things to be predestined, and yet busy themselves -in endeavours to prevent their coming to pass; -as if the vain efforts of human power or prudence were -able to counteract the will, or reverse the decrees of -the Omnipotent.</p> - -<div id="ip_280" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img src="images/i_280.jpg" width="312" height="197" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_281">281</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_281" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_281.jpg" width="563" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE KITE AND THE PIGEONS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Kite who had kept sailing in the air for many -days near a dove-house, and made a stoop at several -Pigeons to no purpose, for they were too nimble for -him, at last had recourse to stratagem, and made a -declaration to them, in which he set forth his own just -and good intentions, and that he had nothing more at -heart than the defence and protection of the Pigeons -in their ancient rights and liberties, and how concerned -he was at their unjust and unreasonable suspicions -of himself, as if he intended by force of arms to break -in upon their constitution, and erect a tyrannical government -over them. To prevent all which, and thoroughly -to quiet their minds, he thought proper to -propose such terms of alliance, as might for ever cement -a good understanding between them; one of -which was, that they should accept of him for their<span class="pagenum" id="Page_282">282</span> -king, and invest him with all kingly privilege and prerogative -over them; in return for which he promised -them protection from all their enemies. The poor -simple Pigeons consented: the Kite took the coronation -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 pretended 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 family in the -same kingly arts. The Pigeons, reduced to this miserable -condition, said one to the other, Ah! we deserve -no better! Why did we let him come in?</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">What</span> 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 -of liberty without good security? Who often chuse -for guardians of their lives and fortunes, persons abandoned -to the most unsociable of vices; and seldom have -any better excuse for such an error in politics, than -that they were deceived in their expectation, or never -thoroughly knew the manners of their king, till he had -got them entirely in his power. We ought not to incur -the possibility of being deceived in so important a -matter as this; an unlimited power should not be trusted -in the hands of any one who is not endowed with -a perfection more than human.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_283">283</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_283" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_283.jpg" width="563" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SICK KITE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Kite who had been sick a long time, beginning to -be doubtful of recovery, begged of his Mother to go -to all the churches and religious houses in the country, -to try what prayers and offerings would effect in his -behalf. The old Kite replied, Indeed, my dear son, -I would willingly undertake 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 continued scene of rapine -and injustice, and who has not scrupled, upon -occasion, to rob even their altars?</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> rehearsal of this Fable almost unavoidably<span class="pagenum" id="Page_284">284</span> -draws our attention to that very serious and important -point, the consideration of a death-bed repentance, the -sincerity of which we may justly suspect in one whose -whole life has been spent in acts of wickedness and impiety. -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, who has -offended the Gods all his life-time by acts of dishonour -and injustice, expect that they will be pleased with him -at last, for no other reason but because he fears he -shall not be able to offend them any longer? Since -the summons to “pass that bourn whence no traveller -returns,” must one day come, we ought always -to be prepared to meet it. But when the whole life -has been wasted, without communion with, or totally -estranged from that Almighty Being, by whose fiat it -was called into existence, then indeed the polluted soul -must be distracted with the agonizing thoughts of appearing -before Him, who created it for a very different -purpose. Nothing but the consciousness of having led -a virtuous life, can in the awful moment, disarm death -of his terrors, and fortify the mind with cheering hopes -and resignation. But this is a subject of the utmost -importance, and the due enforcing of it is one of the -most solemn duties of the pulpit.</p> - -<div id="ip_284" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img src="images/i_284.jpg" width="318" height="187" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_285">285</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_285" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_285.jpg" width="549" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE LION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> first time the Fox saw the Lion, he fell down -at his feet, and was ready to die with fear. 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.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">From</span> this Fable we may observe the two extremes -in which we may fail as to a proper behaviour towards -our superiors. The one is a bashfulness, proceeding -either from a vicious guilty mind, or a timorous rusticity; -the other an over-bearing impudence, which assumes -more than becomes it, and so renders the person -insufferable to the conversation of well-bred reasonable<span class="pagenum" id="Page_286">286</span> -people. But there is a difference between the bashfulness -which arises from a want of education, and the -shame-facedness that accompanies conscious guilt: the -first by 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 at last into the utmost 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 or -reasonable grounds; but upon a little recollection, 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 endeavours to regain -a due degree of steadiness and resolution; but at -the same time we must have a care that our efforts in -that respect do not force the balance too much, and -make it rise to an unbecoming freedom, and an offensive -familiarity.</p> - -<div id="ip_286" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_286.jpg" width="348" height="289" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_287">287</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_287" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_287.jpg" width="560" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DOG AND THE WOLF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Wolf in quest of prey, happened to fall in with a -well-fed Mastiff. Ah, Tray, said he, one does not need -to ask how you do, you look so plump and hearty. I -wish I were as well provided for; but my gaunt looks -shew that I fare very differently, although I dare say I -venture my life ten times more than you do, in searching -for a precarious subsistence, amidst woods and -wilds, exposed to rain, and frost, and snow. If you -will follow me, replies the Dog, and do as I do, I -have no doubt you will change for the better, and soon -be in as good plight as I am. The Wolf eagerly requested -to be informed what would be required of him. -Very little, replied the Mastiff; only drive away beggars, -guard the master’s house, caress him, and be -submissive to his family, and you will be well fed -and warmly lodged. To these conditions the Wolf -had no objections; but as they were jogging along, he<span class="pagenum" id="Page_288">288</span> -observed the hair worn off around the Dog’s neck, and -enquired the cause. O nothing, answered he, or a -mere trifle; perhaps the collar, to which my chain is -fastened, has left a mark. Chain! replied the Wolf, -with some surprize; so then you are not permitted to go -where and when you please? Not always, said Tray; -but what does that signify? It signifies so much, rejoined -the Wolf, that I am resolved to partake of no -sumptuous fare with a chain about my neck; for half a -meal, with liberty, is preferable to a full one without it.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">True</span> greatness of soul will never give up liberty for -any consideration whatever; for what are riches, grandeur, -titles, or any other worldly good, if they are -holden by so precarious a tenure as the arbitrary will -of a tyrant! A mere competency, with liberty, is -preferable to servitude amidst the greatest affluence; -and even the lowest condition in life, with freedom, is -better than the most exalted station without it. But -liberty in a state of society does not consist in doing -whatsoever we please; but only permits those actions -by which we do no injustice to our neighbour, or to -the community. The well-being of society requires the -efforts of all, from the highest to the lowest, to preserve -and support it; and since it appears to be the will of -Omnipotence, that mankind should live in this state of -social union (which does not admit of the unbridled -freedom of the savage state) a certain portion of individual -liberty must be given up for the good of the -whole; but the sacrifice should be bounded by the -common good: all beyond approaches towards slavery, -and degrades the people who submit to it.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_289">289</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_289" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_289.jpg" width="563" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FLYING FISH AND THE DOLPHIN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Flying Fish, to avoid its enemies, leaves the -water, takes wing, and mounts up into the air. The -Dolphin is one of the most constant of these enemies; -and its velocity through the liquid element, it is said, -surpasses that of every living creature, insomuch that -as it darts along, the brilliancy and changeableness of -its colours, which cannot be described, appear like the -flash of a meteor. A Flying Fish being pursued by -a Dolphin, in his eagerness to escape, took too long -a flight, and his wings becoming dry, he fell upon a -rock, where his death was inevitable. The Dolphin, -in the keenness of his pursuit, ran himself on shore at -the foot of the rock, and was left by the wave, gasping -in the same condition as the other. Well, says the -Flying Fish, I must die it is certain; but it is some<span class="pagenum" id="Page_290">290</span> -consolation to behold my merciless enemy involved in -the same fate.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> brought low by a cruel and insolent oppressor, -there is no torture we feel more poignantly, than -to see him triumphantly exulting in our downfal; and -the opposite extreme must take place in our minds, on -seeing our enemy over-shoot his mark, and in his turn -brought down to the same level of distress with ourselves. -The temper that is not touched with feelings -of this kind, must be of a highly philosophical cast indeed. -The great and powerful, for the sake of their -own peace of mind, should not unfeelingly persecute -their inferiors; for nothing is more sweet to some tempers, -and scarcely any thing more easy to compass, -than revenge.</p> - -<div id="ip_290" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 28em;"> - <img src="images/i_290.jpg" width="434" height="334" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"><i>It is not so ugly as a purse-proud, -ignorant, wicked man.</i></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_291">291</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_291" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_291.jpg" width="556" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LION AND THE FROG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Lion hearing an odd kind of hollow voice, and -seeing nobody, started up: he listened again, and hearing -the noise repeated, he 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 -with great anger; but checking himself, turned away -from it, ashamed of his own timidity.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> early prejudices of a wrong education can only -be eradicated from the strongest minds. The weak retain -them through life. This Fable is a pretty image -of the vain fears and empty terrors, with which our -weak misguided nature is so apt to be alarmed and disturbed. -If we hear but ever so little noise which we<span class="pagenum" id="Page_292">292</span> -are not able to account for, immediately, nay, often -before we give ourselves time to consider about it, we -are struck with fear, and labour under a most unmanly -and unreasonable trepidation; more especially if the -alarm happens when we are alone, and in the dark. -These fears are ingrafted into our minds very early, -and therefore it is the more difficult, even when we are -grown up, and ashamed of them, to root them out of -our nature. They are chiefly the offspring of the nursery, -and originate in the many terrific tales, and lying -stories, of those who have the management there; and -though every pains be afterwards taken to free the -mind from the impression of such groundless fears, -the weaker part of mankind are still apt to be terrified -at the empty phantoms of ghosts, spectres, apparitions, -and hobgoblins. But whatever effect such -phantasies may have upon the guilty mind, innocence -has nothing to dread from supernatural causes. Fear -is however a natural passion, and its use is to put us -upon our guard against danger, by alarming the spirits; -but it, like all our other passions, should be kept -in a state of subjection: for though they are all good -and useful servants, yet if once they get the better of -our reason, they prove the most domineering tyrants -imaginable; nor do any of them treat us in so abject -and slavish a manner as fear: it unnerves and enfeebles -our limbs, while it fetters our understandings; and at -the same time that it represents a danger near at hand, -disarms and makes us incapable of defending ourselves -from it. But we ought to call forth a sense of honour -and shame, to correct such weaknesses; and for this -purpose it will be useful to remember the Fable of the -Lion and the Frog.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_293">293</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_293" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_293.jpg" width="561" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE KID AND THE WOLF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Kid being mounted upon the roof of a high shed, -and seeing a Wolf below, took the opportunity of affronting -him with the foulest reproaches: upon which -the Wolf looking up, replied, Do not value yourself, -vain creature, upon thinking you mortify me, for I -look upon this ill-language not as coming from you, -but from the place which protects you.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Place</span> a coward out of the reach of danger, and -then no man can put on an appearance of greater -courage. In his castle he makes a great deal more -bluster and threatening than a man of spirit and honour -would do, if placed in the same situation. A similar -kind of overbearing behaviour too often shews<span class="pagenum" id="Page_294">294</span> -itself in the upstart worthless placeman, who taking -advantage of his situation, which protects him, and -knowing that he is out of the reach of our resentment, -exhibits all the “insolence of office:” but such should -be put in mind, that a saucy deportment is no sign -of either courage, good sense, or good manners, and -that a gentleman and a man of spirit will use no ill or -unbecoming language to any person, however low in -station.</p> - -<div id="ip_294" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_294.jpg" width="370" height="268" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_295">295</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_295" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_295.jpg" width="565" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE COUNTRY AND THE CITY MOUSE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> plain Country Mouse was one day unexpectedly -visited at his hole, by a fine Mouse of the town, who -had formerly been his play-fellow. The honest rustic, -pleased with the honour, resolved to entertain his -friend as sumptuously as possible. 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. -When the repast was nearly finished, the spark of the -town, taking breath, said, Old Crony, give me leave -to be a little free with you; how can you bear to live -in this melancholy hole here, with nothing but woods, -and meadows, and mountains, and rivulets about you? -Do you not prefer the conversation of the world to the -chirping of birds, and the splendour of the court, to -the rude aspect of a wild like this? With many flowery -arguments, he at last prevailed upon his country<span class="pagenum" id="Page_296">296</span> -friend to accompany him to town, and about midnight -they safely entered a certain great house, where there -had been an entertainment the day before. Here it -was the courtier’s turn to entertain, and placing his -guest on a rich Persian carpet, they both began to -regale most deliciously, when on a sudden the noise -of somebody opening the door, made them scuttle in -confusion about the dining-room. The rustic in particular -was ready to die with fear at the many hair-breadth -escapes which followed. At last, recovering -himself, Well, says he, if this be your town-life, much -good may it do you. Give me my poor quiet hole -again, with my homely, but comfortable grey pease.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> moderate fortune, with a quiet retirement in the -country, is preferable to the greatest affluence, attended -with the care and the perplexity of business. How -often are we deceived by the specious shows of splendour -and magnificence; and what a poor exchange does -he make, who gives up ease and content in an humble -situation, to engage in difficulties, and encounter perils -in affluence and luxury! The ploughman in the field, -who labours for his daily pittance, earns his bread with -less uneasiness and fatigue, than the man who haunts -levees to obtain wealth and preferment. Riches, properly -used, are indeed very conducive to ease and happiness; -but if we leave any comfortable situation to -procure them, or abuse the possession of them by riot -and intemperance, we resign the end for the means, -mistake the shadow for the substance, and convert the -instruments of good fortune into the engines of anxiety -and solicitude.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_297">297</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_297" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_297.jpg" width="561" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE ONE-EYED DOE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Doe that had lost an 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; -but a sly fellow, with two poaching companions, who -had watched her several days to no purpose, at last took -a boat, and came gently down upon her, and shot her. -The Doe, in the agonies of death, breathed out this -doleful complaint: O hard fate, that I should receive -my death’s wound from the side whence I expected no -ill, and be safe in that quarter where I looked for the -most danger.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_298">298</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> are liable to many misfortunes that no care or -foresight can prevent; but we ought to provide in the -best way we can against them, and leave the rest to -Providence. The wisest of men have their foibles or -blind sides, and have their enemies too, who watch to -take advantage of their weaknesses. It behoves us -therefore to look to ourselves on the blind side, as the -part that lies most exposed to an attack. Vigilance -and caution are commonly our best preservatives from -evil, and security is often a fatal enemy, when we cherish -it so as to lull all our apprehensions to rest. We -should not however encourage in ourselves the slavish -principle of fear, nor make ourselves miserable on account -of latent evils, which it is not in our power to -prevent. The ways and workings of Providence are -inscrutable; and it is not in the power of human prudence -to obviate all the accidents of life.</p> - -<div id="ip_298" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 27em;"> - <img src="images/i_298.jpg" width="426" height="268" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_299">299</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_299" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_299.jpg" width="563" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TREES AND THE WOODMAN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Countryman being in want of a handle for his hatchet, -entered a wood and looked among the branches -for one that would suit his purpose. The Trees, with -a curiosity natural to some other creatures, asked him -what he was seeking? He replied that he only wanted -a piece of wood to make a handle to his axe, and -begged they would be so good as to permit him to -serve himself. Since that is all, said the Trees, help -yourself, and welcome. He immediately availed himself -of the permission, and had no sooner fitted up his -instrument, than he began pell-mell to cut and hack -about him, felling the noblest trees in all the forest, -without distinction. The Oak is said to have spoke -thus to the Beech, in a low whisper: Brother, we must -take all this for our easy credulity, and imprudent generosity.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_300">300</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">One</span> would imagine that the natural principle of self-preservation -implanted in us, would make it unnecessary -to caution any one not to furnish an enemy with -arms against himself. Yet daily experience shews us -that such instances of imprudence are not uncommon. -In this life we are liable to be surrounded with calamities -and distresses: we should therefore be cautious of -adding to our misfortunes, by our own want of caution, -and of putting power into the hands of those enemies, -which our merit or our affluence may tempt to rise up -against us. Any person in a community, by what -name or title soever distinguished, who affects a power -which may possibly hurt a people, is their enemy, 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 a -nation’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 by -wise and just princes, who had the true interest of their -people at heart. How like senseless stocks do they -act, who, by complimenting some capricious mortal, -from time to time, with scraps of prerogative, at last -put it out of their power to maintain their just and natural -liberty!</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_301">301</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_301" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_301.jpg" width="556" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE EAGLE AND THE CROW.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Eagle flew down from the top of a high rock, -and making a stoop at a Lamb, seized it with her -strong talons, and bore aloft her bleating prize to her -young. A Crow observing what passed, was ambitious -of performing the same exploit, and darted down -upon a Ram; but instead of being able to carry it -up into the air, she found she had got her claws entangled -in its fleece, and could neither move herself -nor her fancied prize. Thus fixed, she was soon taken -by the Shepherd, and given away to some boys, who -eagerly enquired what bird it was? An hour ago, said -he, she fancied herself an Eagle; however I suppose -she is by this time convinced that she is but a Crow.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is impossible for any man to take a true measure<span class="pagenum" id="Page_302">302</span> -of the abilities of another, without an exact knowledge -and true judgment of his own; a false estimate of -which always exposes him to ridicule, and sometimes -to danger. Every man ought therefore to examine the -strength of his own mind with attention and impartiality, -and not fondly to flatter himself that he can by -an awkward and ill-judged emulation soar to the height -which has been attained by men endowed by nature -with great abilities and original talents, matured by -industry. We can no more adopt the genius of another -man, than we can assume his shape and person. -The bright original in every department of the arts -and sciences will be valued and esteemed, whilst his -puny imitators will be treated with neglect, or be despised. -Almost every man has something original in -himself, which, if duly cultivated, might perhaps procure -him respect and applause, and it is creditable for -him to endeavour justly to obtain them.</p> - -<div id="ip_302" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 29em;"> - <img src="images/i_302.jpg" width="453" height="238" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_303">303</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_303" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 34em;"> - <img src="images/i_303.jpg" width="543" height="397" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HORSE AND THE STAG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">In</span> ancient times, when the Horse and the Deer -ranged the forest with uncontrolled freedom, it happened -that contentions arose between them about grazing -in particular meadows. These disputes ended in -a conflict between them, in which the Deer proved -victorious, and with his sharp horns drove the Horse -from the pasture. Full of disappointment and chagrin, -the Horse applied to the Man, and craved his -assistance, in order to re-establish him in the possession -of his rights. The request was granted, on condition -that he would suffer himself to be bridled, saddled, -and mounted by his new ally, with whose assistance he -entirely defeated his enemy; but the poor Horse was -mightily disappointed when, upon returning thanks to -the Man, and desiring to be dismissed, he received this -answer: No, I never knew before how useful a drudge<span class="pagenum" id="Page_304">304</span> -you were; now I have found what you are good for, -you may be assured I will keep you to it.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Victories</span> may be purchased at too dear a rate, if -we solicit the assistance of allies capable of becoming -our most formidable enemies, and it will be vain to -flatter ourselves, that the yoke of slavery, if we once -willingly suffer it to be laid upon our shoulders, can be -easily shaken off, when the ends for which we bore it -are accomplished. The Fable is intended to caution -us against consenting to any thing that might prejudice -public liberty, as well as to keep us upon our guard in -the preservation of that which is of a private nature. -This is the use and interpretation given of it by Horace, -one of the best and most polite philosophers that -ever wrote. After reciting the Fable, he applies it -thus: This, says he, is the case of him, who, dreading -poverty, parts with that invaluable jewel, liberty; -like a wretch as he is, he will always be subject to a -tyrant of some sort or another, and be a slave for ever, -because his avaricious spirit knew not how to be contented -with that moderate competency, which he might -have possessed independent of all the world.</p> - -<div id="ip_304" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 17em;"> - <img src="images/i_304.jpg" width="259" height="169" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_305">305</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_305" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_305.jpg" width="558" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE MILLER, HIS SON, AND THEIR ASS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Miller and his Son were taking their Ass to market -to sell him, and that he might get thither in good condition, -they drove him gently before them. They had -not proceeded far before they met a company of travellers: -Sure, say they, you are mighty careful of your -Ass; one of you might as well get up and ride, as suffer -him to walk on at his ease, while you trudge after -on foot. In compliance with this advice, the Old Man -set his Son upon the beast. And now, they had scarcely -advanced a quarter of a mile further, before they met -another company. You idle young rogue, said one, -why dont you get down, and let your poor father ride? -Upon this, the Old Man made his Son dismount, and -got up himself. While they were marching in this -manner, a third company began to insult the father. -You hard-hearted wretch, say they, how can you suffer<span class="pagenum" id="Page_306">306</span> -that poor lad to wade through the dirt, while you, like -an alderman, ride at your ease? The good-natured -Miller stood corrected, and immediately took his Son -up behind him. And now the next man they met exclaimed, -with more vehemence and indignation than all -the rest, Was there ever such a couple of lazy loobies! -to overload in so unconscionable a manner, a poor -dumb creature, who is far less able to carry you, than -you are to carry him! The complying Old Man -would have been half inclined to make the trial, had -not experience by this time sufficiently convinced him, -that there cannot be a more fruitless attempt, than to -endeavour to please all mankind.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is better to pursue the dictates of one’s own reason, -than attempt to please every body; for to do this -is next to impossible. Therefore we ought to decide -according to the best of our judgment, and correct -our mistakes from our own experience. Wise men are -instructed by reason; men of less understanding by experience; -the most ignorant by necessity; and beasts -by instinct. When a man so neglects himself, as not -to make a just use of his reason and his mental powers, -in combating with prejudice and folly, as well as the -caprice of others, he will ever be led on in a maze of -error, wavering and embarrassed about pursuing this -or that path, until between them he is lost in a labyrinth, -from which he will never be able to extricate -himself as long as he lives.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_307">307</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_307" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_307.jpg" width="561" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> commonwealth of Ants, having, after a busy summer, -provided every thing for their wants in the winter, -were about shutting themselves up for that dreary season, -when a Grasshopper in great distress, and in dread -of perishing with cold and hunger, approached their -avenues, and with great humility begged they would -relieve his wants, and permit him to take shelter in any -corner of their comfortable mansion. One of the Ants -asked him how he had disposed of his time in summer, -that he had not taken pains and laid in a stock, as they -had done? Alas! my friends, says he, I passed away -the time merrily and pleasantly, in drinking, singing, -and dancing, and never once thought of winter. If -that be the case, replied the Ant, all I have to say is -this: that they who drink, sing, and dance in the summer, -run a great risk of starving in the winter.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_308">308</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> summer is the season in which the industrious -laborious husbandman lays up his supplies for the winter, -so youth and manhood are the times of life which -we should employ in laying in such a stock as may -suffice for helpless old age; yet there are many whom -we call rational creatures, who squander away in a -profuse prodigality, whatever they get in their younger -days, as if the infirmity of age would require no supplies -to support it, or at least would find them administered -to it in some miraculous way. From this Fable -we learn this admirable lesson, never to lose the -present opportunity of fairly and honestly providing -against the future evils and accidents of life; and while -health and the vigour of our faculties remain firm and -entire, to lay them out to the best advantage; so that -when age and infirmities despoil us of our strength and -abilities, we may not have to bewail that we have neglected -to provide for the wants of our latter days: for it -should always be remembered, that “a youth of revels -breeds an age of care,” and that temperance in youth -lays the foundation of health and comfort for old age.</p> - -<div id="ip_308" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_308.jpg" width="351" height="200" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_309">309</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_309" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_309.jpg" width="563" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HORSE AND THE LION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> old Lion, finding that many of the beasts had -become too nimble for him, and that he could not -come at his prey so readily as before, craftily gave out -that he had long studied physic and surgery in foreign -countries, and that he could cure every kind of disorder -to which the beasts were liable. These professions -having been spread abroad, he hoped to get many of -the animals to come within his clutches. The Horse -seeing through the whole of the scheme, was resolved -to be even with him; and so humouring the thing as if -he suspected nothing, he feigned himself to be in great -pain from a wound in his foot, and limping up to the -Lion, he begged he would examine the part and administer -relief. The Lion, though intent only upon making -a good meal of horse-flesh, begged the Horse to hold up -his foot that he might see it: this was no sooner done,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_310">310</span> -than the Horse gave him so violent a blow on the nose, -as quite stunned him, and scampered off, neighing at -the success of a trick, which had defeated the purpose -of one who intended to have tricked him out of his life.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> ought never to put trust in the fair words and -pretensions of those who have both an interest and inclination -to ruin us; and where we find foul play thus -intended against us, it is not in the nature of things to -expect that we should not, if we can, turn the tables -upon the plotters. Treachery has something so wicked -and worthy of punishment in its nature, that it deserves -to meet with a return of its own kind. An open -revenge is too liberal for it, and nothing matches it -but itself. Though a man of sense and honour will -always view tricking and fraud of all kinds as mean -and beneath him, and will despise setting such an example, -yet it cannot be inconsistent with virtue to counteract -the schemes of those who are taking all manner -of undue advantages, and hatching wicked plots to undermine -us.</p> - -<div id="ip_310" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_310.jpg" width="334" height="248" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_311">311</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_311" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_311.jpg" width="551" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX IN THE WELL.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox having fallen into a well, made 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, and very earnestly -implored his assistance to help him out, or he should -be lost. Ah! poor Reynard, says he, I pity your -misfortune; poor creature, I am sorry for you with all -my heart: how did you happen to slip into this well? -pray how long have you been in this melancholy situation? -Nay, I prithee friend, replies the Fox, if -you wish me well, do not stand pitying me, but lend -me some succour as soon as you can; for pity is but -cold comfort when one is up to the chin in water, and -within a hair’s breadth of starving or drowning.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_312">312</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">If</span> we would really manifest our sorrow for the -sufferings of another, let our pity be shewn by our -friendly endeavours to relieve him; for indeed pity of -itself is but poor comfort at any time, unless it produces -something more substantial. If we cannot do -this, let us not offend the sensibility, and add to the -anguish of a delicate mind, by empty professions and -unmeaning compassion. For, to stand bemoaning the -misfortunes of our friends, without offering some expedient -to alleviate them, is only echoing 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 merely condoles with -me upon my ill success, and expresses his sorrow for -my mishap.</p> - -<div id="ip_312" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_312.jpg" width="379" height="430" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_313">313</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_313" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_313.jpg" width="563" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE GARDENER AND HIS DOG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Gardener’s Dog happened by some mischance to -fall into the well: his Master ran immediately to his -assistance; but when helping him out, the surly brute -bit his hand. The Gardener took this ungrateful -treatment so ill, that he shook him off, and left him -to shift for himself. Thou wicked wretch! said he, -to injure the hand that was stretched forth to save thy -life! The hand of thy Master, who has hitherto fed -and taken care of thee! Die there as thou deservest; -for so base and unnatural a creature is not fit to live.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> a man has suffered his mind to become so -debased as to be capable to doing injuries to him who -has showered benefits on his head, he can scarcely be<span class="pagenum" id="Page_314">314</span> -treated with too much severity. He deserves at least -to be scouted as an outcast to society. All the favours -that are bestowed upon men of this worthless disposition, -are thrown away; for the envy and malevolence -of the ingrate, work him up into a hatred of his benefactor. -Generous men should therefore use a just circumspection -in the choice of the objects of their benevolence, -before they give way to the feelings of the -heart, or waste its bountiful overflowings upon those -who, instead of making a grateful return, will bite -them like a drowning but spiteful dog. The Fable is -also intended as an admonition to servants, who owe -an especial duty to their masters; whose kindness -should be met by their faithful exertions to serve them; -and whose interest they ever ought to make their own.</p> - -<div id="ip_314" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 18em;"> - <img src="images/i_314.jpg" width="286" height="235" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_315">315</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_315" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_315.jpg" width="561" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DEER AND THE LION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Deer, terrified by the cry of the Hunters, instead -of trusting to his fleetness, made towards a cave which -he chanced to espy, and in which he hoped to conceal -himself until they were passed by; but he had scarcely -reached the entrance before he was seized by a Lion -who lay crouching there, ready to spring upon his -prey, and who instantly killed and tore him to pieces. -In the last agonies of death, he thus gave vent to his -feelings: Ah, me! said he, unhappy creature that I -am. I hoped in this cave to escape the pursuit of -men; but have fallen into the jaws of the most cruel -and rapacious of wild beasts.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable points out the dangers to which we expose<span class="pagenum" id="Page_316">316</span> -ourselves, when, for want of presence of mind, -we suffer ourselves to be guided by our unreasoning -fears, which no sooner shew us an evil, than they -throw us into the utmost confusion in our manner of -escaping, and prevent us from discerning the safe path -by which we ought to avoid it. Thus, in a rash endeavour -to shun a less danger, we oftentimes blindly -run headlong into a greater. The fate of the Deer -should warn us to consider well what may be the ultimate -consequences, before we take any important step; -for many paths which appear smooth and pleasant at a -distance, are found to be rough and dangerous, when -we come to tread them; and many a plausible scheme, -which promises us ease and safety, is no better than a -tempting bower, with a Lion crouching among its foliage, -ready to spring upon and devour us.</p> - -<div id="ip_316" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 23em;"> - <img src="images/i_316.jpg" width="366" height="219" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_317">317</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_317" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_317.jpg" width="552" height="398" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE PLOUGHMAN AND FORTUNE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">As</span> a Ploughman was turning up the soil, his plough -uncovered a treasure which had been hidden there. -Transported with joy, he seized upon it, and fervently -began to thank the ground for being so liberal to him. -Fortune passing by, observed what he was about, and -could not forbear shewing her resentment at it. You -stupid creature, said she, to lie thus thanking the -ground, and take no notice of me! If you had lost -such a treasure, instead of finding one, I should have -been the first you would have laid the blame upon.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">How</span> often do we ascribe our success or misfortunes -to wrong causes! Vanity sometimes leads us to consider -our prosperity as the natural result of our own<span class="pagenum" id="Page_318">318</span> -sagacity, and inattention sometimes induces us to make -acknowledgments to wrong persons. But if we would -have our praises valued, we should be cautious to direct -them properly. Our thanks are an indirect affront to -those who receive them without deserving them; and -at the same time an act of open ingratitude to those -who merit them without receiving them. In prosperity, -as well as in adversity, let us not forget the power -and goodness of Heaven; and if we implore the aid of -the Almighty in our distress, we should not neglect to -send up our acknowledgments of his goodness with the -voice of gratitude.</p> - -<div id="ip_318" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 30em;"> - <img src="images/i_318.jpg" width="473" height="314" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_319">319</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_319" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_319.jpg" width="557" height="401" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE APE AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Ape meeting with a Fox, humbly requested he -would be so good as to give him some of the superfluous -hair from his bushy tail, to make into a covering -for his bare posteriors, which were exposed to all the -inclemency of the weather; and he endeavoured to further -his suit by observing to Reynard, that he had far -more than he had any occasion for, and a great part -even dragged along in the dirt. The Fox answered, -that as to his having too much, it was more than he -knew; but be it as it would, he had rather sweep the -ground with his tail as long as he lived, than part with -the least bit of it for a covering to the filthy posteriors -of an Ape.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Riches,</span> in the hands of a wise and generous man,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_320">320</span> -are a blessing to the community in which he lives: -they are like the light and the rain, and diffuse a good -all around them. But wealth, when it falls to the lot -of those who want benevolence and humanity, serves -only as an instrument of mischief, or at best produces -no advantage to the rest of mankind. The good man -considers himself as a kind of steward to those from -whom fortune has withheld her smiles, and thus shews -his gratitude to Heaven for the abundance which has -been showered down upon him. He directs the superfluous -part of his wealth at least, to the necessities of -such of his fellow-creatures as are worthy of it, and -this he would do from feeling, though there were no -religion which enjoined it. But selfish avaricious persons, -who are generally knaves, how much soever they -may have, will never think they have enough, much -less be induced, by any consideration of virtue or religion, -to part with any portion for the purposes of -charity and beneficence. If the riches and power of -the world were to be always in the hands of the virtuous -part of mankind, it would seem, according to our -human conceptions, that they would produce more good -than in those of the vile and grovelling mortals, who -often possess them. Without any merit, these move -apparently in a sphere of ease and splendour, while -good sense and honesty have to struggle in adversity, -or walk in the dirt. But the all-wise Disposer of -Events does certainly permit this order of things for -just, good, and wise purposes, though our shallow understandings -are not able to fathom them.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_321">321</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_321" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_321.jpg" width="561" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE THIEF AND THE BOY.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> arch mischievous Boy, sitting by the side of a -well, observed a noted Thief coming towards him. -The little dissembler, wiping his eyes, affected to be in -great distress. The Thief asking him what was the -matter? ah! says the Boy, I shall be severely flogged, -for in attempting to get some water, I have dropped -the silver tankard into the well. Upon this the -Thief, eager for a prize, stripped off his cloaths, and -went down to the bottom to search for it; where having -groped about to no purpose, he came up again, -but found neither the Boy nor the cloaths, the little -wag having run off with and hidden them, and left the -Thief to look for the tankard at his leisure.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_322">322</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Nothing</span> gives more entertainment to honest men -than to see rogues and sharpers tricked and punished -in the pursuit of their schemes of villainy, by making -their own contrivances instrumental in bringing down -their wickedness upon their own heads. In these instances, -Justice seems as it were to be acting in person, -and saves the trouble of publicly enforcing punishment -by the penal laws; but indeed vice carries with -it its own punishment, and the misery attendant upon -it in this world, seems always pretty exactly balanced -to its various degrees of enormity. The abandoned -man drags on a contemptible or infamous life, with a -constantly deadened or disturbed conscience, and amidst -associates like himself, where he can never hope -to meet with either friendship or fidelity.</p> - -<div id="ip_322" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 19em;"> - <img src="images/i_322.jpg" width="294" height="179" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_323">323</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_323" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_323.jpg" width="562" height="401" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE SICK LION.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> was reported that the Lion was sick, and the -beasts were given to understand that they could not -make their court better than by going to visit him. -Upon this they generally went; but it was particularly -taken notice of, that the Fox was not one of the -number. The Lion therefore dispatched one of his -Jackalls to enquire 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, but was fearful of being troublesome, as I have -observed, from the prints of their footsteps, that great -numbers have gone into the royal den; but I have not -seen a single trace of their coming out again.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_324">324</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">He</span> that embarks implicitly in any scheme, may be -mistaken, notwithstanding the number who keep him -company; but he that keeps out till he sees reason to -enter, acts upon true maxims of policy; and it is the -quintessence of prudence not to be too easy of belief: -for a rash and hasty credulity has been the ruin of -many. Men who habituate themselves to think, will -profit by the experience of others, as well as their own: -but commonly the multitude do not reason, but stupidly -follow each other step by step; not moving out -of the sphere in which chance has placed them: and -the notions or prejudices they may have imbibed in -youth, remain with them to the last. There is no -opinion, however impious or absurd, that has not its -advocates in some quarter of the world. Whoever, -therefore, takes up his creed upon trust, and grounds -his principles on no better reason than his being a native -or inhabitant of the regions wherein they prevail, -becomes a disciple of Mahomet in Turkey, and of -Confucius in China; a Jew, or a Pagan, as the accident -of birth decides.</p> - -<div id="ip_324" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 19em;"> - <img src="images/i_324.jpg" width="300" height="175" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_325">325</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_325" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_325.jpg" width="564" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SUN AND THE WIND.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> dispute arose between the North Wind and the -Sun, about the superiority of their power, and they -agreed to determine matters by trying which of them -could first compel a Traveller to throw off his cloak. -The North Wind began, and blew a very cold blast, -accompanied by a sharp driving shower; but this, and -whatever else he could do, instead of making the Man -quit his cloak, induced him to gird it about him more -closely. Next came the Sun, who, breaking out from -a cloud, drove away the cold vapours, and darted his -warm sultry beams upon the weather-beaten Traveller. -The Man growing faint with the heat, first threw off -his heavy cloak, and then flew for protection to the -shade of a neighbouring grove.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_326">326</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> is something in the temper of man so averse -to severe and boisterous treatment, that he who endeavours -to carry his point in that way, instead of prevailing, -generally leaves the mind of him whom he has -thus attempted to subdue, in a more confirmed and -obstinate state. Bitter words and hard usage freeze -the heart into an obduracy, which mild, persuasive, -and gentle language only can dissolve. Persecution -has always fixed those opinions which it was intended -to dispel; and the quick growth of christianity in early -times, is attributed in a great measure to the barbarous -reception which its first teachers met with in the Pagan -world; and since that time the different modes of -faith which have grown out of christianity itself, have -been each established by the same kind of intolerant -spirit. To reflect upon these things, furnishes matter -of wonder and regret, for the benevolent Author of the -christian religion taught neither intolerance nor persecution. -The doctrines he laid down are plain, pure, -and simple. They teach mercy to the contrite, aid to -the humble, and eternal happiness to the good. In -short, persecution is the scandal of all religion, and -like the north wind in the Fable, only tends to make -a man wrap his notions more closely about him.</p> - -<div id="ip_326" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 16em;"> - <img src="images/i_326.jpg" width="256" height="126" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_327">327</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_327" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_327.jpg" width="563" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HORSE AND THE ASS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Horse, adorned with his great war-saddle, and -champing his foaming bridle, came thundering along -the high-way, and made the mountains echo with his -neighing. He had not gone far before he overtook -an Ass, who was labouring under a heavy burthen, -and moving slowly on in the same track. In an imperious -tone he threatened to trample him in the dirt, -if he did not get out of the way. The poor Ass, not -daring to dispute, quietly got aside as fast as he could, -and let him go by. Not long after this, the same -Horse, in an engagement, happened to be shot in the -eye, which made him unfit for show, or any military -business, so he was stripped of his ornaments, and sold -to a carrier. The Ass meeting him in this forlorn -condition, thought that now it was his time to retort:<span class="pagenum" id="Page_328">328</span> -Hey-day, friend, says he, is it you! Well, I always -believed that pride of your’s would one day have a fall.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">It</span> is an affectation of appearing considerable, that -puts men upon being proud and insolent; but this very -affectation infallibly makes them appear little and despicable -in the eyes of discerning people. Did the -proud man but rightly consider what kind of ingredients -pride is composed of and fed with, and the -unstable foundation, and the tottering pinnacle upon -which it stands, he would blush at the thoughts of it, -and cease to be puffed up by the little supernumerary -advantages, whether of birth, fortune, or title, which -he may enjoy above his neighbours. These might indeed -be a blessing to him, and to the community in -which he lives, if wisely used; but if guided by pride, -and consequently by want of sense, they will prove -only a curse; and the reverence and respect which he -looks for, will not be paid with sincerity, nor does he -deserve it; and should the tide of misfortune set in -against him, instead of friendship and commiseration, -he will meet with nothing but contempt, and that with -much more justice than ever he himself expressed it towards -others. The vain proud man ought to be put in -mind, that the time is not far distant, when his skull -will not be distinguished from that of the beggar; and -that there is no state, however exalted, so permanent, -that it may not be reduced to a level with the lowest.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_329">329</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_329" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_329.jpg" width="564" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HAWK AND THE FARMER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Hawk, in the eagerness of his pursuit after a -Pigeon, flew with such violence against the corner of a -hedge, that he was stunned and fell. A Farmer, who -had been looking about his fields, saw the whole transaction, -and instantly ran and picked up the Hawk, and -was going to kill him; but the latter begged the Man -would let him go, assuring him he was only following -a Pigeon, and neither intending, nor had done, any -harm to him. To which the Farmer replied, and -what harm had the Pigeon done to you? and wrung -his head off immediately.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">In</span> all our transactions through life, to suppose -ourselves in the place of those we may be dealing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_330">330</span> -with, will be the most certain check upon our own -conduct; and we ought always to consult our 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 were done to us. Let those, -therefore, who intend to act justly, but take this view -of things, and all will be well. There will be no danger -of their oppressing others, or fear of their falling -into error or danger themselves. Nothing but an habitual -inadvertency as to this particular, can be the -occasion of so many ingenuous noble spirits being so -often engaged in courses opposite to virtue and honour.</p> - -<div id="ip_330" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_330.jpg" width="350" height="207" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_331">331</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_331" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_331.jpg" width="555" height="392" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE COUNTRYMAN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox being closely pursued by the Hunters, and -almost run down, begged of a Countryman to give -him protection, and save his life. The Man consented, -and pointed out a hovel, into which the Fox crept, -and covered himself up among some straw. Presently -up came the Hunters, and enquired of the Man it he -had seen the Fox, and which way he had taken? No, -said he, I have not seen him here, he has passed another -way; but all the while he nodded with his head, -and pointed with his finger to the place where the Fox -was hidden. These signals the Hunters, in the eagerness -of pursuit, did not notice, but calling off the dogs, -they dashed along in another direction. Soon after, -the Fox came out of his hiding-place, and was sneaking -off; when the Man calling after him,—Hollo, says -he, is this the way you behave then, to go without<span class="pagenum" id="Page_332">332</span> -thanking the benefactor who has saved your life? Reynard, -who had peeped all the while, and had seen what -passed, answered, I know what obligation I owe you -well enough, and I assure you if your actions had -agreed with your words, I should have endeavoured, -however incapable of it, to have returned you suitable -thanks.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Dissimulation</span> and double dealing are among the -most odious vices, and a hollow friend is worse than -an open enemy; for in the full confidence of friendship, -we are led to depend upon the man who uses -that confidence to betray us. To pretend to keep -another’s council, and appear in his interest, while -underhand we are giving intelligence to his enemies, -is treacherous, knavish, and base. Truth is a plain -and open virtue, and cannot be practised in part; and -truth and sincerity are the same; wherefore he that -equivocates and adheres to his promise in one sense, -without preserving it inviolably in its full extent and -meaning, departs as much from truth and sincerity as -the most direct liar.</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="iq">“And be those juggling friends no more believ’d,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">That palter with us in a double sense;<br /></span> -<span class="i0">That keep the word of promise to the ear,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">And break it to our hope.”<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_333">333</span></p> - -<div id="ip_333" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_333.jpg" width="558" height="400" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">ÆSOP AT PLAY.</h2> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Athenian one day found Æsop entertaining -himself with a company of little Boys at their childish -diversions, and began to jeer and laugh at him -for it. Æsop, 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 -bow implies. The Man, after racking his brains a -considerable time to no purpose, at last gave it up, -and declared he knew not what to make of it. Why, -says Æsop, smiling, if you keep a bow always bent, -it will lose its elasticity presently; but if you let it go -slack, it will be fitter for use when you want it.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_334">334</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> mind of man is not formed for unremitted attention, -nor his body for uninterrupted labour; and -both are in this respect like a bow. We cannot go -through any business requiring intense thought, without -unbending the mind, any more than we can perform -a long journey without refreshing ourselves by -due rest at the several stages of it. Continual labour, -as in the case of the bended bow, destroys the elasticity -and energy of both body and mind. It is, therefore, -absolutely necessary for the studious man to unbend, -and the laborious one to take his rest, or both -lose their tone and vigour, and become dull and languid. -It is to remedy these extremes, that pastimes -and diversions ought to be kept up, provided they are -innocent. The heart that never tastes of pleasure, -shuts up, grows stiff, and is at last incapable of enjoyment.</p> - -<div id="ip_334" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 18em;"> - <img src="images/i_334.jpg" width="287" height="211" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_335">335</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_335" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_335.jpg" width="562" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOX AND THE WOLF.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Wolf having laid in a store of provisions, snugly -kept in his den, and indulged himself in feasting -upon them. The Fox observing this seclusion of the -Wolf, became inquisitive to know the cause, and by -way of satisfying his curiosity and his suspicions, he -went and paid the Wolf a visit. The latter excused -himself from seeing the Fox, by pretending he was -very much indisposed. The Fox having smelt how -matters stood, took his leave, and immediately went -to a Shepherd to inform him of the discovery he had -made, and that he had nothing else to do but to take -a good weapon with him, and with it easily dispatch -the Wolf as he lay dosing in his cave. The Shepherd -following his directions, presently went and killed the -Wolf. The wicked Fox then slily took possession -of the cave and the provisions to himself; but he did<span class="pagenum" id="Page_336">336</span> -not enjoy them long, for the same Shepherd shortly -afterwards passing by the place, and seeing the Fox -there, dispatched him also.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> villain, whose only aim is to get what he can, -will as soon betray the innocent as the guilty. Let -him but know where there is a suspected person, and -propose a reward, and he will seldom fail to work the -suspicion up to high treason, and will be at no loss to -produce sufficient proofs of it. Men of this stamp will -not be content with practising one single villainy; for -having never laid down any good principles for their -guide, they will go on triumphantly in their wickedness -for a time, and though, perhaps, they may be the instruments -of bringing other villains to punishment, yet -they will at last suffer in their turn; for, after being -detested by all good men, justice will, sooner or later, -overtake their crimes, and hurl down its vengeance on -their heads, with a measure equal at least to the sufferings -their perfidy has occasioned to others. The fate -of such wretches can never excite the smallest commiseration; -for no character is so truly detestable, as that -of a spy and informer.</p> - -<div id="ip_336" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 18em;"> - <img src="images/i_336.jpg" width="273" height="180" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_337">337</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_337" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_337.jpg" width="551" height="400" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE RAVEN AND THE SERPENT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Raven in quest of food, seeing a Serpent basking -in the sun, soused down, seized it with his horny beak, -and attempted to carry it off. But the Serpent, writhing -with the pain, twisted its elastic coils so firmly -about the Raven, and bit him with such envenomed -fierceness, that he fell to the ground mortally wounded. -In the agonies of death, the Raven confessed this -was a just punishment upon him, for having attempted -to satisfy his greedy appetite at the expence of another’s -welfare.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> men suffer their passions to set aside their -reason, they soon become sensual in their appetites, -and inordinate in their desires. Moral rectitude takes<span class="pagenum" id="Page_338">338</span> -its departure from their minds, and led by their evil -spirit, they soon become fitted for the commission of -any enormity. They give the rein to their unbridled -lusts, and regardless of consequences, stop at nothing -to gratify their brutal desires. But if we mark the -progress of such men through life, it will be found -that, besides losing the great and virtuous pleasures of -self-approbation, and incurring the stings of a guilty -conscience, their wicked career often meets just punishment -from retaliations in kind, which the objects -of their iniquitous proceedings unexpectedly retort upon -them.</p> - -<div id="ip_338" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 31em;"> - <img src="images/i_338.jpg" width="495" height="413" alt="" /> - <div class="caption"><i>Waiting for Death</i></div></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_339">339</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_339" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_339.jpg" width="555" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DOVE AND THE BEE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Bee, whose business had led her to the brink of -a purling stream, was snatched away by its circling -eddy, and carried down its current. A Dove, pitying -her distressed situation, cropped a twig from a tree, -and dropt it before her in the water, by means of -which the Bee saved herself, and got ashore. Not -long after, a Fowler having a design upon the Dove, -espied her sitting on a tree, and keeping out of her -sight, was waiting the opportunity of shooting her. -This the Bee perceiving, stung him on the ear, which -made him give so sudden a start, that the Dove instantly -took the alarm, and flew away.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">We</span> ought ever with a ready zeal to extend our arm<span class="pagenum" id="Page_340">340</span> -to relieve a sinking friend from distress and danger, or -endeavour to forewarn him against the wicked plots of -his enemies. The benevolent man, from the most disinterested -motives, will always be disposed to do good -offices to all, and the grateful man will never forget to -return them in kind, if it be possible; and there is not -one good man in the world who may not on some occasion -stand in need of the help of another. But gratitude -is not very common among mankind. It is a -heavenly spark, from which many virtues spring; and -the source of pleasures which never enter the breast of -the vile ingrate. The favours and kindnesses bestowed -upon the grateful man, he cannot forget; those which -are conferred upon the ungrateful, are lost: he concludes -he would not have had them, if he had not deserved -them.</p> - -<div id="ip_340" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img src="images/i_340.jpg" width="308" height="180" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_341">341</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_341" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_341.jpg" width="555" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SERPENT AND THE MAN.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Child 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 venomous -teeth, so that he died immediately. The Father -of the Child, inspired with grief and revenge, took a -weapon, and pursuing the Serpent, before he could -get into his hole, struck at him and lopped off a piece -of his tail. The next day, hoping by stratagem to -finish his revenge, he brought to the Serpent’s hole -honey, and meal, and salt, and desired him to come -forth, protesting that he only sought a reconciliation -on both sides; but the Serpent answered him with a -hiss to this purpose: In vain you attempt a reconciliation; -for as long as the memory of the dead Child and -the mangled tail subsists, it will be impossible for you -and I to have any charity for each other.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_342">342</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> persons have carried their differences to an -extreme length, it is in vain for them to think of renewing -a cordial friendship; for in the heat of their -quarrel, many injuries must have been reciprocally -offered and received, which must tear asunder the -strongest bands of amity. The fury of their dissentions -may indeed subside, yet neither party can forgive -the wrongs which neither can forget. 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 put it as much as possible out of his enemy’s power -to make any return upon him; and the old proverb -will be verified which says, “The man who has injured -you, will never forgive you.” Morality bids us -forgive our enemies, and the voice of reason confirms -the same; but neither reason nor morality bids us enter -into a friendship with, or repose a confidence in, -those who have injured us, and of whom we have a -bad opinion. We may resolve not to return ill-usage; -but ought never to put ourselves into the power of an -enemy.</p> - -<div id="ip_342" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 16em;"> - <img src="images/i_342.jpg" width="256" height="186" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_343">343</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_343" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_343.jpg" width="547" height="399" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HORSE AND THE OVER-LOADED ASS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> clownish stupid Fellow, in travelling to market -with his goods, loaded his Horse very lightly, and put -a heavy burden upon his Ass, and was trudging along -the road with them on foot. They had not travelled -half-way to their journey’s end, when the Ass felt greatly -overpowered with the weight he carried, and begged -the Horse would be so good as to assist him by taking -a part of it upon his back, and lighten the grievous -burden, assuring him that through weakness he was -quite exhausted, and was ready to faint. No! said -the Horse, keep your burden to yourself, it does not -concern me. Upon hearing this cruel reply, the poor -Ass dropped down, and soon expired. The Master -then ungirded the pack-saddle, and awkwardly tried -several ways to relieve his Ass, but all to no purpose; -it was too late. When he perceived how matters stood,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_344">344</span> -he took the whole burden and laid it upon the Horse, -together with the skin of the dead Ass, and when he -felt tired with walking, he also mounted himself. The -Horse is said to have often muttered as he went along, -Well, this is my proper punishment, for refusing to -help my fellow-servant in the depth of his distress.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">He</span> who has no compassion in his breast, is unworthy -the title of a man; and the heart that feels no -anguish at the misfortunes of others, nor a desire to -relieve those who groan under a load of sorrow, is -destitute of the very grounds and principles of virtue. -The eye that has no tear for the griefs of a friend, is -also blind to its own interest; for the burden of human -affairs must be borne by some or other of us, and -the duty, as well as the common necessity of helping -one another, ought not to be shuffled off by the unworthy -expression of “it is none of my business:” for -the business of society is more or less the business of -every man who lives in it; and he who permits his -weak brother, for want of timely assistance, to sink -under a greater weight than he is able to sustain, deserves -to be punished for his cruelty, by being obliged -to bear the whole of his own distressing burdens himself. -The Fable also hints at the miseries which -poor dumb useful animals undergo, from the injudicious -management or cruel treatment of those under -whose government they have the misfortune to fall. -These kind of “hogs in armour” ought to be taught -by their own sufferings, the benevolent text, that “A -merciful man will be merciful to his beast.”</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_345">345</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_345" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_345.jpg" width="562" height="402" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE HUSBANDMAN AND THE STORK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Husbandman having placed nets in his fields to -catch the Rooks and the Geese, which came to feed -upon the new-sown corn, found among his prisoners -a single Stork, who happened to be in their company. -The Stork pleaded hard for his life, and among other -arguments, alleged that he was neither Goose nor -Crow, but a poor harmless Stork, whose attachment -to mankind, and his services to them in picking up -noxious creatures, as well as fulfilling his duties to his -aged parents, he trusted, were well known. All this -may be true, says the Husbandman, for what I know; -but as I have taken you in company with thieves, and -in the same crime, you must also share the same fate -with them.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_346">346</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> we become so abandoned to stupidity and a -disregard of our reputation, as to keep bad company, -however little we may be criminal in reality, we must -expect the same censure and punishment as is due to -the most notorious of our companions. The world -will always form an idea of the character of every man -from his associates: nor is this rule founded on wrong -principles; for, generally speaking, those who are constant -companions, are either drawn together by a similitude -of manners and principles, or form such a -similitude by daily commerce and conversation. If, -therefore, we are tender of our reputation, we should -be particularly delicate in the choice of our company, -since some portion of their fame or infamy must unavoidably -be reflected upon us. It is not enough to be -virtuous ourselves, but we must be cautious not to -associate with those who are devoted to vice: for, -though we cannot confer any degree of our own credit -upon them, we may suffer much discredit, and incur -much danger, from mixing with such bad companions.</p> - -<div id="ip_346" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_346.jpg" width="380" height="275" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_347">347</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_347" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_347.jpg" width="563" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TRAVELLERS AND THE BEAR.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Two</span> Men being to travel through a forest together, -mutually engaged to stand by each other in -any danger they might encounter on the way. They -had not gone far, before a Bear rushed towards them -out of a thicket; upon which, one of them, being a -light nimble fellow, got up the branches of a tree, and -kept out of sight. The other falling flat upon his face, -and holding his breath, lay still, while the Bear came -up and smelled at him, but not discovering any marks -of life, he walked quietly away again to the place of -his retreat, without doing the Man the least harm. -When all was over, the Spark who had climbed the -tree, came down to his Companion, and asked him, -what the Bear said to him? for, says he, I took notice -that he clapt his mouth very close to your ear.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_348">348</span> -Why, said the other, he advised me, for the future -never to place any confidence in such a faithless poltroon -as you.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> is nothing in this world that can lighten -our burdens, in passing through it, or contribute more -to our happiness, than our knowing we have a true -friend, who will commiserate with and help us in our -misfortunes, and on whom we can rely in times of -difficulty and distress. There are many, indeed, who, -with fair words, pretend to that character, and are -ever ready to offer their services when there is no occasion -for their help. But the real friend, like gold -from the furnace, shines forth in his true lustre, and -with heart and hand is ever ready to succour us, in -times of tribulation and peril. It is on such only we -ought to place a confidence in any undertaking of importance; -for the man who is wholly actuated by the -selfish unsocial principle of caring only for himself, is -not fit to be associated with others of a more generous -character; and he who will desert them in adversity -ought not to be made a partaker of the prosperity of -others. It therefore behoves us diligently to examine -into the fidelity of those we have to deal with, before -we embark with them in any enterprise, in which our -lives and fortunes may be put to hazard by their breach -of faith.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_349">349</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_349" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_349.jpg" width="569" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FIGHTING COCKS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">After</span> a fierce battle between two Cocks for the -sovereignty of the dunghill, one of them having beaten -his antagonist, he that was vanquished slunk away and -crept into a corner, where he for some time hid himself; -but the conqueror flew up to a high place, and -clapped his wings, crowing and proclaiming his victory. -An Eagle, who was watching for his prey, saw him -from afar off, and in the midst of his exultation darted -down upon him, trussed him up, and bore him away. -The vanquished Cock perceiving this, quitted the place -of his retreat, and shaking his feathers and throwing -off all remembrance of his late disgrace, returned to -the dunghill, and gallanted the Hens, as if nothing had -happened.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_350">350</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable shews us the impropriety and inconvenience -of running into extremes, and teaches us, that -under all the various and sudden vicissitudes of human -life, we ought to bear success with moderation, and misfortune -with fortitude and equinamity; to repress immoderate -exultation, and unmanly despair. Much of our -happiness depends upon keeping an even balance in -our words and actions, and in not suffering circumstances -to mount us too high in time of prosperity, nor -to sink us too low with the weight of adverse fortune. A -wise man will not place too high a value on blessings -which he knows to be no more than temporary; nor -will he repine at evils, whose duration may perhaps be -but short, and cannot be eternal. He will submit himself -with humility and resignation to the decrees of -providence, and the will of heaven. In prosperity, the -fear of evil will check the insolence of triumph; and in -adversity, the hope of good will sustain his spirit, and -teach him to endure his misfortunes with constancy -and fortitude.</p> - -<div id="ip_350" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_350.jpg" width="337" height="183" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_351">351</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_351" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_351.jpg" width="566" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE WILD AND THE TAME GEESE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> flock of Wild Geese and a parcel of Tame ones -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 Tame Geese being heavy, and fat full-bodied -creatures, were most of them sufferers; but the wild -ones being thin and light, easily flew away.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> 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 are endeavouring<span class="pagenum" id="Page_352">352</span> -to make off with it. Great wealth has many cares -annexed to it, with which the poor and needy are not -afflicted. A competency to supply the necessities of -nature, and the wants of old age, is indeed to be desired; -but we should rather endeavour to contract our -wants, than to multiply them, and not too eagerly -grasp at the augmentation of our possessions, which -will increase our cares by adding to our danger. Persons -of small fortune have as much reason to be contented -as the rich: their situation is full as happy, considered -altogether, for if they are deprived of some of -the gratifications which the rich enjoy, they are also -exempted from many troubles and uneasinesses necessarily -cleaving to riches.</p> - -<div id="ip_352" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 21em;"> - <img src="images/i_352.jpg" width="327" height="231" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_353">353</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_353" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_353.jpg" width="570" height="408" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FROGS AND THE MICE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> Frogs and the Mice, who inhabited part of a -most extensive fen, (of which there remained unoccupied -sufficient room to hold many whole nations of -both) could not agree with each other so as to live in -peace: many bitter disputes arose between them about -the right to particular pools, and their tuft-covered -margins. At length, national jealousies and animosities -arose to such a height, that each claimed the -sovereignty of the whole fen, and the most rancorous -war was waged between them, in order to settle, by -force of arms, their respective pretensions. While their -hostile armies were drawn up in battle array, on a -plain of several square yards in extent, protected on -both flanks and rear by dark pools and gloomy forests -of sedges, reeds, and bulrushes, their two chieftains<span class="pagenum" id="Page_354">354</span> -advanced to meet each other, and to it they fell as -fierce as tigers. While these two combatants were thus -engaged, a Kite sailing in the air, beheld them from a -great distance, and darting down upon them, instantly -bore them off in his talons; while the field of battle -presented a delicious repast to some Ravens, who had -chanced to spy the movements of these hostile armies.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> leading feature in the character of men, in all -ages of the world, has ever been self-interest; and -when this is not kept within due bounds, by a just sense -of morality and honour, their bad passions are let -loose, and money, power, or dominion, are the chief -objects they keep in view. When men thus depraved, -have long soared above restraint, and their numbers -and power become predominant in a nation, the accumulation -of their wickedness hurries them blindly -on to break out into offensive wars with other nations, -on the most frivolous pretences, and rapine, plunder, -and innumerable murders succeed, by which humanity -is outraged, and the fair face of nature is -deluged with blood. “Peace is the natural happy -state of man, and war is his disgrace.” The mighty -among the Frogs and Mice attend not to this: they -strut and exult for a time; but their pride, tyranny, and -injustice, will have an end: for opposed to these vices -are the attributes of Omnipotence, and they are eternal. -It often happens (as in the case of the combatants in -the Fable) that when national depravity has attained -its height, the Kites and Ravens of other regions are -invited forth, and made the instruments of a just -retribution.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_355">355</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_355" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 37em;"> - <img src="images/i_355.jpg" width="577" height="412" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOWLER AND THE LARK.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fowler set his snares to catch birds in the open -field. A Lark was caught; and finding herself entangled, -could not forbear lamenting her hard fate. -Ah! woe is me, says she, what crime have I committed -that man should be plotting my destruction? I have -not taken either his silver or gold, or any thing of -value to him; and while other rapacious birds deal -about destruction and go unpunished, I must die for -only picking up a single grain of corn.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> irregular administration of justice in the world, -is indeed a melancholy subject to think of. A poor -fellow shall be hanged for stealing a sheep, perhaps to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_356">356</span> -keep his family from starving; while one, who is already -great and opulent, will not scruple to add to his overflowing -wealth by the most bare-faced peculation upon -the public, and yet shall escape punishment, and even -censure, through powerful interest with those who -ought to be his judges, but allow themselves to be -swayed by the splendour of his connections, or corrupted -by his money. When justice is intrusted in -such hands, then shall we see the description given by -one of our satirical poets, of a corrupt court of law, -realized. He calls it a place,</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">Where little villains must submit to fate,<br /></span> -<span class="i0">That great ones may enjoy the world in state.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p class="in0"><span class="firstword">However,</span> let no one, who violates the law, rest his -defence on this plea; for though crimes, committed by -his superiors, ought not to escape with impunity, yet -his own nevertheless deserve punishment. Hence we -may also draw a hint, not unworthy of our attention, -to endeavour to preserve our own integrity, unshaken in -the midst of iniquity, and to shew ourselves unstained -by the corruption even of the worst of times.</p> - -<div id="ip_356" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 18em;"> - <img src="images/i_356.jpg" width="275" height="165" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_357">357</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_357" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_357.jpg" width="566" height="404" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE SHEPHERD TURNED MERCHANT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Shepherd was feeding his flock, on a very fine -day, near the sea-side. The beauty of the weather, -the smoothness of the water, and the ships with spreading -sails floating along its surface, formed altogether so -charming a scene, that he lost all relish for a pastoral -life; and lured also by the prospect of gain, he determined -to quit an employment, which he now despised -as yielding neither honour nor profit. He quickly sold -off his flocks, and commenced merchant adventurer; -and ere long, he embarked with his whole property on -the ocean. The ship had not long been at sea before -a dreadful tempest arose, which wrecked her and all -her cargo; but our merchant and the crew were fortunate -enough to escape with their lives. The adventurer -having thus lost his all, returned to his former farm, and -was glad to hire himself to the man who had bought<span class="pagenum" id="Page_358">358</span> -his stock, to attend the sheep which were once his own. -One day, as he sat meditating upon the change that -had happened, and viewing the sea calm and unruffled -as before, Ah! says he, thou deceitful tempting element, -experience has made me so wise, that if I should -again acquire a property, I will never more trust it -upon thy faithless bosom.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is intended to put men of fickle unsettled -minds upon their guard against that propensity which -often inclines them so strongly to shifting and changing, -and leads them to imagine they would be happier in -any profession than the one to which they have been -brought up. By this disposition they are led away -from an honest competency, to adventure their all upon -untried schemes, in the hope of bettering their condition. -But men of this wavering temper, who are comfortably -settled in the world, would do well to reflect, -before they change their situation, and rashly venture, -perhaps, the acquisitions of their whole life, on projects, -the failure of which may subject them to great calamities, -which will be the more intolerable to bear, as they -will not have adverse fortune to blame, but merely -their own folly. Of this truth, experience will convince -them when it is too late.</p> - -<div id="ip_358" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 15em;"> - <img src="images/i_358.jpg" width="239" height="135" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_359">359</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_359" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_359.jpg" width="568" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE COCK AND THE FOX.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fox, in one of his early visits to the farm-yard, -happened to be caught in a springe, which had been -set for that very purpose; and while he was struggling -to escape, he was observed by the Cock, who, with his -Hens, was feeding near the place. The Cock, dreading -so dangerous a foe, approached him with the utmost -caution. Reynard no sooner cast his eye upon -him, than with all the smooth and designing artifice -imaginable, thus addressed him. My dear friend, says -he, you see what an unfortunate accident has befallen -me here, and all upon your account, for not having -heard you crow for a long time past, I was resolved on -my way homeward to pay you a friendly visit; I therefore -beg you will bring me something to cut this tormenting -wire, or at least be so good as to conceal my -misfortune till I have knawed it asunder. Yes, said the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_360">360</span> -Cock, I can guess what kind of a visit you intended to -pay me, and will fetch you the proper assistance immediately. -He then hastened and told the Farmer, who -instantly went to the place, and knocked the Fox on -the head.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">When</span> the innocent fall into misfortune, it is the -part of a generous and brave spirit to contribute as far -as possible to their relief; and there is no quality of -mind more amiable than that of tenderly feeling for the -distressed: but we ought not to let our compassion -flow out upon improper objects, lest we may, by saving -a villain, be doing an act of injustice to the community. -When wicked men are entrapped in their own pernicious -schemes, and laid hold of by the arm of justice, -it is a misplaced lenity to endeavour to screen or protect -them from it, as by letting them loose to continue -their depredations, we become the advocates for their -crimes, and in some degree partakers in their enormities.</p> - -<div id="ip_360" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 22em;"> - <img src="images/i_360.jpg" width="344" height="213" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_361">361</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_361" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_361.jpg" width="561" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE YOUNG MAN AND HIS CAT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> certain Young Man used to play with a beautiful -Cat, of which he grew so fond, that at last he fell in -love with it to such a degree, that he could rest neither -night nor day for the excess of his passion. In this -condition he prayed to Venus, the goddess of beauty, to -pity and relieve his pain. The good-natured goddess -was propitious, and heard his prayers; and the Cat, -which he held in his arms, was instantly transformed -into a beautiful Young Woman. The Youth was -transported with joy, and married her that very day. -At night, while they were in bed, the bride unfortunately -heard a mouse behind the hangings, and sprang -from the arms of her lover to pursue it: the Youth -was ashamed, and Venus offended, to see her sacred -rites thus profaned by such unbecoming behaviour; -and perceiving that her new convert, though a woman<span class="pagenum" id="Page_362">362</span> -in outward appearance, was a Cat in her heart, she -caused her to return to her old form again, that her -manners and person might be suitable to each other.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable, however extravagant and unnatural in -its composition, is intended to depicture and check -the blind instinctive ardour of the passion of love, the -transports of which cover all imperfections, so that its -devotees consider neither quality nor merit. It is -like an idol of our own creating, which we fashion into -whatever figure or shape we please, and then run -mad for it. The Fable also shews that</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">“No charm can raise from dirt a grov’ling mind;”<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p class="in0">And that people of a low turn of spirit and mean education, -cannot change their principles by changing their -situation: for in the midst of splendour and magnificence, -they still retain the same narrow sentiments, -and seldom fail to betray, by some dirty action, their -original baseness, which no embroidery can conceal; -and though fortune has been pleased to lift them out -of the mire, we still see the silly awkward blockheads -displaying their lack of mind and education through -all their ensigns of dignity. If any thing more need -be added, it can only be with a view of more plainly -putting inexperienced youth on their guard against -making inconsiderate connections, lest they take a -Cat into their bosom, instead of an amiable consort -and companion for life.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_363">363</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_363" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_363.jpg" width="567" height="405" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE FOWLER AND THE PARTRIDGE.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Fowler having taken a Partridge in his nets, the -bird begged hard for a reprieve, and promised the -man, if he would let him go, to decoy the other Partridges -into his snares. No, replies the Fowler, if I had -before been undetermined what to do with you, 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.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">To</span> betray our friends is one of the blackest of -crimes; and however much traitors may suppose they -recommend themselves by their successful acts of treachery, -they will find that those who employ them as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_364">364</span> -useful instruments in any dirty business of faction or -party, are shocked at the baseness of their minds; and -however convenient it may be to “like the treason, -the traitor will be despised.” History furnishes us with -many instances of kings and great men who have punished -the actors of treachery with death, though the -part they acted had been so conducive to their interests -as to give them a victory, or perhaps the quiet possession -of a throne: nor can princes pursue a more just -maxim than this, for a traitor is a villain, and sticks -at nothing to promote his own selfish ends. He that -will betray one master for a bribe, will betray another -on the same account. It is therefore impolitic in any -state to suffer such wretches to live under its protection. -Since then this maxim is so good, and likely at -all times to be acted upon, what stupid rogues must -they be who undertake such precarious dirty work!</p> - -<div id="ip_364" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 20em;"> - <img src="images/i_364.jpg" width="320" height="194" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_365">365</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_365" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_365.jpg" width="564" height="413" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BLIND MAN AND THE LAME.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> blind Man and a lame Man happening to come -at the same time to a piece of very bad road, the former -begged of the latter that he would be so kind as -to guide him through the difficulty. How can I do -that, said the lame Man, since I am scarcely able to -drag myself along? But as you appear to be very -strong, if you will carry me, we will seek our fortunes -together. It will then be my interest to warn you -against any thing that may obstruct your way; your -feet shall be my feet, and my eyes your’s. With all -my heart, replied the blind Man; let us mutually serve -each other. So, taking his lame companion on his -back, they by means of this union travelled on with -safety and pleasure.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_366">366</span></p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> is no such thing as absolute independence, -in a state of society, and the defects and weaknesses of -individuals form the cement by which it is bound together. -All men have their imperfections and wants, -and must help each other as a matter of expediency as -well as virtue; for Providence has so ordered things in -this life, that like the blind man and the lame in the -Fable, we may be serviceable to each other in almost -every instance. What one man wants another supplies. -Without these failings there would be neither -friendship nor company; so that it is our interest to -be both charitable and sociable, when our very wants -and necessities are converted by Providence into blessings. -The whole race of mankind ought indeed to be -but so many members of the same body; and in contributing -to the ease and convenience of each other, -we are not only serviceable to the whole, but kind to -ourselves.</p> - -<div id="ip_366" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 17em;"> - <img src="images/i_366.jpg" width="258" height="223" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_367">367</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_367" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_367.jpg" width="566" height="407" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE LION, THE WOLF, AND THE DOG.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Lion having seized upon a Doe, while he was -standing over his prize, a Wolf stepped up to him, and -impudently claimed to go halves. No! said the Lion, -you are too apt to take what is not your due. I therefore -shall never have any thing to do with you, and I -peremptorily insist on your immediate departure out -of my sight. A poor honest Dog, who happened to -be passing, and heard what was going on, modestly -withdrew, intending to go about another way. Upon -which the Lion kindly invited him to come forward -and partake with him of the feast, to which his modesty -had given him so good a title.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">There</span> is something in modesty which ought ever<span class="pagenum" id="Page_368">368</span> -strongly to prepossess us in favour of those persons -in whose nature it is interwoven; and men of discerning -and generous minds have a pleasure in discovering -it, and in bringing into notice the worthy man, who is -diffident of his merit, and cannot prevail upon himself -to challenge the praise or tribute he deserves. It is, -however, to be lamented, that such patrons are not -very numerous, and that the assuming arrogance and -teasing importunities of the greedy forward man should -so commonly succeed in attaining his ends, while -modesty in silence starves unnoticed, and is for ever -poor. Were men in exalted stations of life to pay -more attention to the importance of this, and endeavour -to discover modest worth, to draw merit from the -shade, and virtue from obscurity, and distribute their -patronage and their favours to such only, their own -affairs, as well as those of the public, would be better -managed, and the difference between the conduct of -upstart pride and sensible plain honesty would soon -shew itself in its true unvarnished colours.</p> - -<div id="ip_368" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 16em;"> - <img src="images/i_368.jpg" width="246" height="190" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_369">369</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_369" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_369.jpg" width="557" height="403" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE ASS EATING THISTLES.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">An</span> Ass was loaded with provisions of several sorts, -which he was carrying home for a grand entertainment. -By the way, he met with a fine large Thistle, -and being very hungry, immediately eat it up, which, -while he was doing, he entered into this reflection: -How many greedy epicures would think themselves -happy amidst such a variety of delicate viands as I now -carry! But to me, this bitter prickly Thistle is more -savory and relishing than the most exquisite and sumptuous -banquet.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">Temperance</span> and exercise may be regarded as the -constituents of natural luxury. It is not in the power<span class="pagenum" id="Page_370">370</span> -of the whole art of cookery, to give such an exquisite -relish and seasoning to a dish, as these two will confer -on the plainest fare. Indolent epicures have no true -taste: they subsist entirely by whets and provocatives -of appetite; but he whose stomach is braced and -strengthened by exercise, has a whet within himself, -which adds a poignancy to every morsel that he eats. -Providence seems to have carved out its blessings with -an equal hand, and what it has denied to the poor in -one way, it has amply supplied them with in another: -if it have withheld riches, it has given them a greater -store of health; and if it have refused them the means -of luxury, it has at least formed them with the capacity -of living as happily without it. And it may further -be observed, that if we except hereditary diseases, -almost every other ailment may be laid to the account -of indolence, intemperance, or anxiety of mind.</p> - -<div id="ip_370" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 24em;"> - <img src="images/i_370.jpg" width="378" height="238" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_371">371</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_371" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_371.jpg" width="572" height="410" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE DOG AND THE CAT.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">Never</span> were two creatures happier together than a -Dog and a Cat, reared in the same house from the -time of their birth. They were so kind, so gamesome, -and diverting, that it was half the entertainment of the -family to see the gambols and love tricks that passed -between them. Still it was observed, that at mealtimes, -when scraps fell from the table, or a tit-bit was -thrown to them, they would be snarling and spitting -at one another like the bitterest foes.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable is too true a picture of the practices -and friendships of the world. We first enter into -agreeable conversations, contract likings, and form<span class="pagenum" id="Page_372">372</span> -close intimacies and connections, which one would -think nothing could ever break up; but clashing interests -at length come in the way, and dissolve the -charm. An unreasonable desire to engross more than -we can enjoy, is the bone of contention, which in -greater or less degrees sets mankind together by the -ears. A jealous thought, a mistaken word or look, -is then sufficient to cancel all former bonds: the league -is broken, and the farce concludes like the Dog and -the Cat in the Fable, with biting and scratching out -one another’s eyes. The same kind of over-grasping -selfishness which operates so powerfully upon and -blinds individuals, may with equal truth be charged -against all public associations or societies of men, from -the greatest to the least, when they are under the influence -of that mistaken patriotism, which, instead of -applying its powers to the improvement of what they -already possess, seeks aggrandizement by engrossing -the colonies or privileges of their less powerful neighbours.</p> - -<div id="ip_372" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 23em;"> - <img src="images/i_372.jpg" width="360" height="215" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_373">373</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_373" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_373.jpg" width="564" height="406" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE TRUMPETER TAKEN PRISONER.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> Trumpeter, being taken prisoner in battle, begged -hard for quarter, declaring his innocence, and -protesting, that he neither had killed nor could kill any -man, bearing no arms but his trumpet, which he was -obliged to sound at the word of command. For 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 among other people, and so become the -cause of much bloodshed.</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">The</span> fomenter of mischief is at least as culpable as -he who puts it in execution. A man may be guilty of -murder, who never has handled a sword or pulled a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_374">374</span> -trigger, or lifted up his arm with any mischievous weapon. -There is a little incendiary called the tongue, -which is more venomous than a poisoned arrow, and -more killing than a two-edged sword. The moral of -the Fable therefore is this, that if in any civil insurrection, -the persons taken in arms against the government -deserve to die, much more do they whose devilish -tongues or pens gave birth to the sedition, and -excited the tumult. The Fable is also equally applicable -to those evil counsellors, who excite corrupt or -wicked governments to sap and undermine, and then -to overturn the just laws and liberties of a whole people; -or involve them in cruel offensive wars, in which -they cause thousands upon thousands of swords to be -drawn, and whole armies of men to be cut in pieces, -while they themselves coolly sit out of danger, and -calculate the gains they derive from the wide-spreading -desolation. War is the most horrid custom that ever -resulted from human wickedness, and is caused only -by the ignorance of the people, or the wickedness of -governments.</p> - -<div id="ip_374" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 16em;"> - <img src="images/i_374.jpg" width="251" height="248" alt="" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_375">375</span></p> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div id="ip_375" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 36em;"> - <img src="images/i_375.jpg" width="571" height="409" alt="" /></div> - -<h2 class="nobreak p2">THE BOYS AND THE FROGS.</h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="firstword">A</span> company of idle Boys used to assemble on the -margin of a lake, inhabited by a great number of -Frogs, and divert themselves by throwing vollies of -stones into the water, to the great annoyance and danger -of the poor terrified Frogs, who were thus pelted -to death as soon as any of them put up their heads. -At length, one of the boldest of the Frogs ventured, -in behalf of the whole community, to croak out their -complaints. Ah, my Boys, said he, why will you -learn so soon the cruel practices of your race? Consider, -I beseech you, that though this may be sport -to you, it is death to us!</p> - -<h3>APPLICATION.</h3> - -<p><span class="firstword">This</span> Fable shews the propensity of unguided youth -to do evil, and points out the need of inculcating benignity<span class="pagenum" id="Page_376">376</span> -of conduct upon their minds, and giving them -a direction towards a manly and generous humanity, -which in manhood will shew itself in actions and habits -that cannot fail to do honour to themselves, and -qualify them for any office in the service of their country. -The contrary of all this will be found to predominate -in society, when youth are suffered to go on -with impunity, in indulging their wicked inclinations -for cruelty, by which their minds are hardened and -debased. This hard-heartedness in boys will grow into -brutality and tyranny in man; and that cruelty -which was at first inflicted upon poor dumb animals, -will soon shew itself upon their fellows. The great -man of this cast will tyrannize over those below him: -these again will shew the same hateful disposition to -their dependants, and so downwards to the lowest, -who, guided only by ignorance, will give vent to their -natural baseness, by goading and distressing the poor -animals which are wretchedly toiling in their service.</p> - -<div id="ip_376" class="figcenter" style="max-width: 35em;"> - <img src="images/i_376.jpg" width="550" height="299" alt="" /></div> - -<p class="p2 center">FINIS.</p> - -<p class="p2 center small">NEWCASTLE: PRINTED BY EDWARD WALKER.</p> - -<div class="chapter"><div class="transnote"> -<h2 class="nobreak p1" id="Transcribers_Notes">Transcriber’s Notes</h2> - -<p>Punctuation, hyphenation, and spelling were made -consistent when a predominant preference was found -in the original book; otherwise they were not changed.</p> - -<p>This book often uses commas where periods might be -expected, particularly when the next text might be -expected to be in quotation marks, but is not.</p> - -<p>Simple typographical errors were corrected; unbalanced -quotation marks were remedied when the change was -obvious, and otherwise left unbalanced.</p> - -<p>The first page is handwritten, with a woodcut -illustration in the middle and a fingerprint between -the words “his mark.”</p> - -<p>Page <a href="#Page_36">36</a>: In the caption of the illustration, “Brains” -was crossed-out (by the artist).</p> - -<p>Page <a href="#Page_76">76</a>: In the caption of the illustration, the -first “the” was crossed out (by the artist).</p> - -<p>Page <a href="#Page_350">350</a>: “equinamity” was printed that way.</p> -</div></div> - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The Fables of Æsop, and Others, by Thomas Bewick - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE FABLES OF ÆSOP, AND OTHERS *** - -***** This file should be named 60004-h.htm or 60004-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/6/0/0/0/60004/ - -Produced by Chris Curnow, Charlie Howard, and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive) - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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