her visit that he could not, in
civility, refuse.

The day arrived, and he repaired to his appointment. But, to his
great dismay, he found the dinner was composed of minced meat,
served up in long, narrow-necked bottles; so that he was only
tantalized with the sight of what it was impossible for him to
taste. The Stork thrust in her long bill, and helped herself very
plentifully; then, turning to Reynard, who was eagerly licking
the outside of a jar where some sauce had been spilled, "I am
very glad," said she, smiling, "that you appear to have so good
an appetite. I hope you will make as hearty a dinner at my table
as I did the other day at yours." The Fox hung down his head, and
looked very much displeased. "Nay, nay!" said the Stork; "don't
pretend to be out of humour about the matter; they that cannot
take a jest should never make one."

FABLE XIX.

THE HORSE AND THE STAG.

The Stag, with his sharp horns, got the better of the Horse, and
drove him clear out of the pasture where they used to feed
together. So the latter craved the assistance of man, and, in
order to receive the benefit of it, suffered him to put a bridle
into his mouth, and a saddle upon his back. By this means he
entirely defeated his enemy, but was mightily disappointed when,
upon returning thanks, and desiring to be dismissed, he received
this answer: "No; I never knew before how useful a drudge you
were; now I have found out what you are good for, you may depend
upon it, I will keep you to it."

MORAL.

Help yourself, if you can do so; but at any rate, before you seek
the assistance of a powerful man, be sure that the help he gives
you will be disinterested, or you may find that in helping you he
may put you under obligations fatal to liberty.

FABLE XX.

THE LION WOUNDED.

A MAN, who was very skilful with his bow, went up into the forest to
hunt. At his approach, there was a great consternation and rout
among the wild beasts, the Lion alone showing any determination to
fight. "Stop," said the Archer to him, "and await my messenger, who
has somewhat to say to you." With that, he sent an arrow after the
Lion, and wounded him in the side. The Lion, smarting with anguish,
fled into the depths of the forest; but a Fox, seeing him run, bade
him take courage, and face his enemy. "No," said the Lion, "you will
not persuade me to that; for if the messenger he sends is so sharp,
what must be the power of him who sends it?"