better were it to endure the sting of one bee than to raise up so many enemies against me by my chafing 5. Mor. This fable implieth that it is far better sometimes to endure the injury of one than whilst we have a desire to punish one to get our selves many enemies 176. Of the Fowler and the Chaffinch 1. THE Fowler had spread nets for birds and had scattered store of meat for them in a void place yet he took not the birds that came to feed because he thought they were but a few 2. Which when they had fed and flown away others came to feed which also by reason of their paucity he cared not to take 3. This course being kept for a whole day together and some coming and others going whilst he always looked for a greater prey at last iâ— began to draw towards night 4. Then the Fowler having lost his hope of taking many when now it was time to give over as he drew up his nets caught one Chaffinch only which unhappy bird had tarried in the void place 5. Mor. This fable sheweth that they that will catch all things are oftentimes scarce able to catch a few things 177. Of the Souldier and the two Horses 1. A Souldier having a very good horse bought another nothing at all so good as he which he kept more choicely than the former 2. Then saith the horse thus to the former Why doth my Master look more carefully after me than thee seeing I am not to be compared to thee neither in fineness nor strength nor swiftness 3. To whom the other horse said This is the nature of men to be always more kind to new guests 4. Mor. This fable sheweth the madness of men who are wont to prefer new things before old though they be the worse 178. Of the Swine and the Dog 1. A Swine mocked a Spaniel which whined and wag'd the tail at his Master who had taught him with many blows and lugs by the ears to set birds 2. To whom the dog said Thou knowest not thou fool thou knowest not what I have got by those blows 3. For by means of them I eat the most delicate flesh of Partridges and Quails 4. Mor. This fable admonisheth us not to take our Masters blows unkindly which use to be an occasion of many good things to us 179. Of the Dog that blamed the Oxens slowness 1. A Piece of Timber which was carried in a wain blamed the Oxen as if they were slow saying Run slow-backs for ye carry but a light load 2. To whom the Oxen answered Thou mockest us not knowing what punishment attends thee 3. For we shall presently lay down this load and then thou shalt be made to bear until thou beest broken 4. Then the dog was sorry and durst not jeer the oxen any more 5. Mor. This fable adviseth any one not to insult over others calamities seeing he himself may be made liable to greater 180. Of the Linnet and the Boy 1. A Linnet being asked by a Boy that had made much of her and fed her with dainty and store of meat why she being got out of the cage would not return again said That I may â—eed my self at my own pleasure and not at thine 2. Mor. This fable sheweth that liberty of life is to be preferred before all delights 181. Of the Jester and the Bishop 1. A Jester coming to a Bishop that was rich indeed but covetons withall on new years day ask'd him a Piece for a new-years-gift 2. The Prelate said The fellow was mad to think so much money would be given him for a new-years-gift 3. Then the Jester began to beg a shilling 4. But when he said he thought this too much too he intreated him to bestow upon him but a brass farthing 5. But when he could not wring so much as this out of the Bishop he said Reverend Father do but bestow your Blessing upon me for a new-years gifts 6. Then said the Bishop Kneel down Son that I may bless thee 7. But I quoth the Jester will have none of that thy so cheap blessing 8. For if it were worth a brass farthing thou wâ—uldst certainly never give it me 9. Mor. This fable was made against those Bishops and Priests that esteem riches and wealth more than all the sacred rites and mysteries of the Church 182. Of the Howpe that was unworthily preferred 1. ALmost all the birds being invited to the Eagle's wedding took it ill that the Howpe was preferred before the rest because she had a fine crown and was decked with changeable-coloured feathers whereas she always used to nest amongst dung and filth 2. Mor. This fable reproveth their folly who in honouring men are wont more to mind the fineness of their cloaths and bravery of their beauty than their vertues and manners 183. Of the Priest and the Pears 1. A Greedy Priest travelling forth of his Country to a wedding to which he was invited found an heap of pears by the way whereof he meddled not so much as with one although he was very hungry 2. But rather making a scorn of them he pist upon them 3. For he was vext that such meat as this should be offered him upon the way who was going to dainty chear 4. But when upon the way he met with a brook grown so big with rain that he could not pass it without the hazard of his life he resolved to return home again 5. And returning fasting he was so very huÌ„gry that unless he had eaten those pears which he had pissed upon seeing he found nothing else he had been famished 6. Mor. This fable teacheth us that nothing is to be scorned seeing there is nothing so vile and base which may not be useful sometimes 184. Of the Mule and the Horse 1. A Mule â—spying a Horse that was fine with his gold bridle and saddle and covered with purple trappings was ready to burst with envy conceiving him to be happy that continually ate very good meat and was handsomly clad but that himself was unhappy in comparison of him who being born down with pack saddles not very well smoothed was forced to bear very great burdens every day 2. But when he saw the horse returning from a battle to have many wounds he called himself happy in comparison of his calamity saying That it was far better to get a hard living by daily labour and to be beggerly attired than after very good and delicate feeding and so great deckings to undergo peril of death 3. Mor. This fable teacheth that we must not envy Kings and Princes because they abound in riches and wealth seeing we may see their life to be subject to far more dangers than poor mens are 185. Of the Hog and the Horse 1. A Hog espying a War-horse that went armed all over to a battle said Thou fool whither doll thou make so much haste for thou shalt perhaps die in the battle 2. To whom the horse made
which having much ado to catch the least things that flie with great toil did think that I could hold such great birds 5. Mor. We are advised by this fable not to undertake things beyond our strength 144. Of a Country-man that was to pass over a River 1. A Country-man being to pass over a River which by chance had grown big with showers sought for a ford 2. And when he had first tried that part of the River which seemed more quiet and still he found it deeper than he had thought in his mind 3. Again where he found it more shallow and safe there the streams ran with a greater noise of waters 4. Then he said to himself how more safely may we commit our life to waters that make a great noise than to them that are still and quiet 5. Mor. We are admonished by this fable that we should less fear men that are full of words and use to threaten than still men 145. Of the Pigeon and the Magpy 1. A Pigeon being asked by a Magpy what persuaded her to build always in the same place seeing her young ones were always taken thence from her 2. Answered Simplicity 3. Mor. This fable sheweth that honest men are oftentimes easily deceived 146. Of the Cuckow and the Hawk 1. THE Cuckow was jeered by the Hawk that whereas she was as big bodied as she and not unlike in colour to her for narrowness of spirit she would rather eat earth-worms than the sweet flesh of other birds 2. Within a few days after she saw the Hawk being caught by a Country-man whose pigeons she pursued to hang down from an high turret for the terrour of others 3. To whom the Cuckow said Friend how much better had it been for you to hunt worms than to make after other folks birds 4. Mor. This fable sheweth that their life is safer and more to be liked of that are content with their own things without danger than theirs who coveting other mens things undergo great perils of life 147. Of the Ass and the Calf 1. THE Ass and the Calf feeding in the same pasture had perceived by the sound of a Bell that the Enemies army came towards them 2. Then the Calf said O companion let us run away hence lest the enemies carry us away prisoners 3. To whom the Ass said Do thou run away whom the enemies have used to kill and eat 4. It maketh no matter to the Ass to whom the same article of carrying a burden is every where offered 5. Mor. This fable admonisheth servants that they do not much fear to change their Masters if so be that they are not like to be worse than their former 148. Of the Fox and the Women that eat the Hens 1. A Fox passing by a farm-house espied a company of women very silently eating a great many hens very daintily roasted 2. Towards whom she turning her self said What outcries and barking of dogs would there be against me if I should do that which you do 3. To whom an old woman answering said Thou base creature we 〈◊〉 those things that are our own but thou stealest other mens things 4. Mor. This fable adviseth us that we do not think we may do that with other mens things which the owners may do 149. Of the fat Capons and the lean one 1. A Man had largely crammed many Capons which were shut up in the same coop who were made fat all saving one whom his fellows mocked as a lean rascal 2. The Master being to entertain some noble guests at a dainty and costly feast commands the cook that he should kill and dress some of those which he should find fatter than others 3. The fat ones hearing this troubled themselves saying How much better had it been for us to be lean 4. Mor. This fable was invented for poor mens comfort whose life is safer than rich mens 150. Of the piece of Timber and the Oxen that drew it 1. A Piece of Elm-Timber complained to the Oxen saying O ye ingratefull Oxen I have fed you a long time with my green boughs but you drag me that have nourished you along the stones and the mire 2. To whom the Oxen made answer Our groans and our sighs and the goad wherewith we are pricked can teach thee that we draw thee full sore against our wills 3. Then the piece of timber pardoned them 4. Mor. This fable teacheth us that we be not angry against them that hurt us against their wills 151. Of the goodly Trees and the ill-favoured one 1. A Great many trees grew together in the same place being tall streight and free from knots except one that was low little and knotty which the other used to make a mocking stock on as being ill favoured and dwarfish 2. The Owner of them being about to build an house in a place gave order that they should all be fell'd except that which seemed likely to make the house unhandsome by its shortness and ill favouredness 3. When the rest were cut down the ill favoured one said thus with it self Nature I will no more complain of thee because thou hast bred me ill favoured seeing I see such great dangers to hang over the heads of them that are fair 4. Mor. This fable doth admonish us that we be not sorry that we are born unhandsome seeing handsomness hath oftentimes done many hurt 152. Of the Swan that sung at her death and was blamed by the Stork 1. THE Swan being ready to die was asked by the Stork why she sung far more sweetly at her death which other living creatures so much dread than she had done in all her life seeing she ought rather to be sad 2. To whom the Swan said Because I shall never be vexed any more with the care of seeking meat nor shall I fear the snares of Fowlers 3. Mor. This fable admonisheth us that we do not fear death by which all the miseries of this present life are cut off 153. Of the Woman that wailed for her dying Husband and of her Mother that comforted her 1. A Mother comforted a woman that was yet but young whose Husband lay a dying saying Daughter do not afflict thy self do not take on so very much for I have found thee another husband a great deal handsomer than this who will quickly ease thee of thy want of thy former husband 2. But the woman not able to refrain her sorrow as one that did ardently affect her husband did not onely turn the deaf ear towards her mother's words but blamed the unseasonable mention of another husband 3. But as soon as she saw her husband dead amidst her tears and mourning she asked her mother whether the young Man was there whom she would give her for a husband 4. Mor. This tale sheweth how quickly women use to forget their love to their deceased husbands 154. Of a Woman that wept for her Lovers departure 1. A Dishonest woman wept sore for her sweet-heart when he
AN Ass taking it in dudgeon that a Jester was had in honour and â—inely clad because he let great farts went to the Magistrates desiring that they would not shew less honour to him than they did to the Jester 2. And when the Magistrates wondring asked him why he thought himself so worthy of honour he said because he let greater farts than the jester and those too without any stink 3. Mor. This fable blames those that lavish out their money in toys 194. Of the River that reviled its own Spring 1. A River reviled its own Spring as if it were idle because it stood unmoveable and had no fish in it 2. But it highly commended it self because it bred very good fish and crept along the vallies with a pleasing noise 3. The spring being vex'd against the River as being ungratefull withheld its waters 4. Then the River being deprived of its fish and pleasing noise vanished away 5. Mor. This fable noteth them that arrogate the good things that they do to themselves and do not attibute them to God from whence as from a large fountain all our good things come 195. Of the wicked man and the Devil 1. A Wicked man after he had committed a great many villanies and was often taken and put in close prison and was very narrowly watch'd besought a Devil's help which had often been with him and helped him out of many dangers 2. At the last the Devil appeared to him being caught again and beseeching his wonted help having a great bundle of shoes with the bottoms worn quite out upon his shoulders saying Friend I can help thee no longer 3. For I have travelled up and down so many places hitherto to get thee at liberty that I have worn out all these shoes and I have no money left wherewithall I may be able to get others 4. Wherefore thou must even perish 5. Mor. This fable teacheth us not to think that our sins shall always be unpunished 196. Of the Birds that would chuse more Kings 1. THE Birds held a council about chusing more Kings forasmuch as the Eagle alone could not rule such great flocks of Birds 2. And they had done according to their desire except they had forborn such a resolution by the advice of the Crow 3. Who when she was asked a reason why she thought more Kings were not to be elected she said 4. Because many bags are more hardly filled than one 5. Mor. This fable teacheth us that it is far better to be governed by one than by many Princes 197. Of the Woman which would die for her Husband 1. A Very chast Matron and one that loved her Husband very well was troubled that her Husband was sick and she took on and sighed and that she mighâ— testifie her love to her Husband she besought Death that if he was about to take her Husband and away from her he would kill her rather than him 2. Amidst these words she sees death coming with a gastly look with the fear of whom she being affâ—ighted now repenting her of her wish she said 3. It is not I that thou lookest for he whom thou art come to kill lyeth there in the bed 4. Mor. This fable sheweth that no man loveth his friend so well that witheth not better to himself than to another 198. Of a Young Fellow that sang at his Mothers burial 1. AN husband wept and wailed for his deceased wife which was carried out to be buried but his son did sing 2. Who when his father blamed him as if he were mad and out of his wits that would sing at his mothers funeral whereas he ought to mourn and weep with him he said 3. Father if you have hired the Priests to sing why are you angry at me that sing for nothing 4. To whom his Father said Thy office and the Priest's is not the same 5. Mor. This fable sheweth that all things are not seemly for all men 199. Of the Jealous Husband that had put his Wife to be looked to 1. A Jealous husband had put his wife whom he had found to live not very chastly to a friend that he much trusted to be looked to having promised him a great sum of money if he would so narrowly watch her that she could by no means violate wedlock 2 But he after he had tried a good many days that this charge was too hard and had found his wit to be outvied by the womans wiliness coming to her husband said That he would no longer take this hard task upon him 3. Seeing that not so much as Argus himself who was all eyes could keep a woman against her will 4. He said moreover that If it were a thing must needs be he had rather carry a sack full of fleas every day for a whole year together into the Meadow and by unâ—ying the sack to let them feed amongst the grass and when it grows night to bring them back again home than look to a dishonest woman one day 5. Mor. This fable sheweth that no keepers are so diligent that can be able to keep dishonest women 200. Of the Fellow that refused a Glyster 1. A Man a German by Nation one that was very rich was sick to look to whom a great many Physicians came for flies flie together by companies to the Honey whereof one amongst other things said that a Glyster was necessary if he would recover 2. Which when the man being never used to this kind of Physick heard â—alling into a rage he commanded the Physicians should be packt out of the house 3. Saying that they were mad who would cure his breech when his head aked 4. Mor. This fable sheweth that all things even those that are wholesome seem harsh and likely to do hurt to them that are not used to them and have not tried them 201. Of the Ass that was sick and the Wolves that came to visit him 1. AN Ass was sick and a report had gone abroad that he was like to die shortly 2. Therefore when the Wolves and the Dogs came to visit him and ask'd of the young one how his Father did he made answer through a crevise in the door Better then ye would have me 3. Mor. This fable sheweth that many feign that they are troubled for the death of others whom they desire to die quickly 202. Of the Nut-tree the Ass and the Woman 1. A Woman asked a Nut-tree that grew by the way side which was beaten with stones by people that passed by why it was so mad that by how much the more and greater blows it was beaten with it would yield by so much the more and better fruit 2. To whom the Wall-nut-tree said Dost thou not remember the Proverb that saith thus One self-same Law doth surely bind The Nut the Ass the Woman kind There 's none of these that rightly does Except sometimes ye give them blows 3. Mor. This fable implieth that men are oftentimes wont to wound
souldiers could avail him towards the victory he answered 3. The Ass will call on my Souldiers to fight with the sound of the trumpet and the Hare will serve for a Letter-Post because of the swiftness of her feet Mor. This Fable signifieth That no body is so contemptible but may do us good in some thing or other 230. Of the Hawks that fell out among themselves which the Pigeons made friends 1. THE Hawks being at odds one with another fought every day and being busied with their own quarrels they did not trouble other birds 2. The Pigeons being sorry for their hap made them friends by sending Ambassadors 3. But they assoon as they were made friends amongst themselves did not forbear to vex and kill the other weaker birds and especially the Pigeons 4. Then said the Pigeons amongst themselves How much better for us was the Hawks falling out than their agreement Mor. This Fable teacheth us that the factions of bad citizens amongst themselves are rather to be cherished than extinguished that they may let honest men live quietly whilst they fall to drawing of swords amongst themselves 231. Of the Governour that was condemned of money unjustly taken 1. A Governour that had robbed the treasury that he had charge of was condemned of extortion 2. And when with much ado he restored what was taken away one of that Province said 3. This Governour of ours doth as women do which when they conceive children are very well pleased but when they bring them forth are extreamly pained Mor. This fable implieth that we must not steal other mens goods lest when we are forced to part with them we be much grieved 232. Of the old Man that would put off Death 1. AN old man intreated death which came to take him away that he would forbear a little till he had made his Will and had provided other things needfull for such a journey 2. To whom death saith Why hast thou not hitherto provided being so often warned by me 3. And when he said he never saw him before he said When I took away every day not only thy equals whereof none almost now remain but also young folks children and infants did I not put thee in mind of thy mortality 4. When thou perceivedst thy eyes to grow dim thy hearing to be less and thy other senses day by day to fail and thy body to wax unweildly did not I tell thee that I was nigh and dost thou say thou hadst no warning 5. Wherefore thou must put me off no longer Mor. This fable sheweth that we ought so to live as if we saw death to he always by us 233. Of the Man that spake to his bag of Money 1. A Covetous man who was ready to die and like to leave a great heap of gold Nobles that was ill gotten behind him asked his bag of money which he had bidden to be brought him now that he was dying whom it was likely to make merry 2. To whom the bag said Thine heirs that shall spend the money that thou hast gotten with so much toyl upon whores and feastings and the devils that shall keep thy soul prisoner in eternal torments Mor. This fable sheweth that it is a very fond thing to bestow pain about such matters â—s may be like to afford others joy and our selve torment The End of the First Book AESOP's FABLES English and Latin The Second Book 1. Of the Fox and the He-Goat 1. A Fox and an He-goat being thirsty went down into a Well in which after they had drunk the Fox saith to the He-goat looking about him how to get forth Have a good heart Goat for I have devised a way how we may both get back 2. For thou shalt rear thy self streight up holding thy forefeet against the wall and lean thy horns forward holding down thy chin to thy brest and I skipping over thy back and thy horns and getting out oâ— the Well will pull thee out thence afterwards 3. Whose advice the He-goat relying upon and being ready to do aâ— he â—ad him the Fox skipt out of the Well and then danced about thâ— well side for joy and was very merry taking no care at all for the He-goat 4. But when he was blamed by the He-goat as a covenant-breaken he answered In good truth Goat If thou hadst as much understanding in thy mind as thou hast hairs on thy chin thou wouldest not have gone down into the well before thou hadst thought of a way how to go out again Mor. This fable implieth that a wise man ought to consider the enâ— before he come to undertake a business 2. Of the Fox and the Lion 1. A Fox having never seen a Lion before when once he met him â— the way before he was aware was so affrighted at the sight â— him that he had like to have died 2. Which when it fortuned a second time afterwards he was affrightâ— indeed at the sight of the Lion but not so as before 3. But when a third time he saw the same Lion in the City he 〈◊〉 not only not affrighted but also went boldly to him and talked and diâ—â—coursed with him Mor. This fable implieth that custom and acquaintance causeth thâ— those things seem neither terrible nor dreadfull which are most toâ— feared and dreaded 3. Of the Cocks and the Partridge 1. ONE having Cocks at home bought a Partridge and put her â—â—mongst the Cocks to be kept and fattâ—d and the Cocks eveâ— one for his own particular pecâ—â— her and beat her away 2. Now the Partridge was grieved in her self thinking that the Cocks did such things to her because her kind was quite differing from theirs 3. But when he saw them shortly after fighting among themselves and striking one another being eased of his grief and sorrow he said 4. Verily I will not be troubled any more hereafter so long as I see them bickering at it even amongst themselves Mor. This fable implieth that a discrect man ought patiently to bear the affronts offered him by those of another Country whom he seeth not to forbear to wrong even those of their own home 4. Of the Fox and the Head that he found 1. A Fox going once into a Musician's house as he gazed upon all the instruments of Musick and all the furniture of the house he found a Wolf's head skilfully and workman-like made of marble which when he had taken up in his hand he said O head that was made with a great deal of wit having no wit at all Mor. This fable belongeth to them that have gallantry of body but no activeness of mind 5. Of the Collier and the Fuller 1. A Collier that dwelt in an hired house invited a Fuller that was come thither hard by that he would dwell with him in the same house 2. To whom the 〈◊〉 answered O friend it will not be convenient for me to do so for I 〈◊〉 afraid lest that whatsoever I whiten thou shouldst smut at
falling out one with another will make you a ready prey for your enemies Mor. This fable sheweth that mens affairs do indifferently either thrive by concord or fail by discord 15. Of the Woman and the Hen. 1. A Widow had a Hen that laid her every day an egg 2. Now the woman hoping that she would lay her two eggs for one if she should give her more meat brought her up plentifully 3. But the hen being made fatter could not lay so much as one egg Mor. This fable sheweth that men growing lither through riot and abundance are hindred from their purposes 16. Of the Man whom the Dog had bitten 1. ONE that was bitten by a dog went about to every body begging cure and he met with one who when he knew the quality of the disease said 2. If thou indeed friend wouldest recover take a crust of bread steept in the blood of the wound and give it to the dog that hit thee to eat 3. To whom he said again Truely if I should do so I should deserve to be worried by all the dogs in the town Mor. This tale sheweth that wicked men are then most heartned on to do mischief when they receive the greatest courtesies 17. Of the two Friends and the Bear 1. A Bear met two friends as they travelled on the high way together one of whom being affrighted climbed up into a tree and kept close but the other when he conceived that he was an unfit match for the Bear and that if he should fight he was likely to be overcome threw himself down on his face and made as though he were dead 2. Now the Bear coming to him smelt at his ears and the hinder part of his head whilst he that lay all along held his breath continually so the Bear thinking that he was dead went his way 3. For they say that a Bear doth not exercise his savageness upon dead bodies 4. By and by the other man that had lien close among the green houghs of a tree came down and asked his friend what the Bear had said to him in his ear 5. To whom his friend said He advised me That I should not travel hereafter with such friends Mor. This fable implieth that those friends are to be avoided who shrink back from helping one in a time of danger 18. Of the young Fellows and the Cook 1. TWO young fellows had bought meat of a Cook betwixt them 2. But when the Cook minded some business in the house and applied himself about it the one of the young men put a piece of meat into the others hand 3. As soon as the Cook turned himself and ask'd for the piece of flesh which was missing he that had taken away the flesh swore that he had it not and he that had it swore that he took it not away 4. To whom the Cook said when he perceived the knavery of the young men Though the thief be unknown to me yet will he not be unknown to that God by whom ye have sworn Mor. This fable implieth that if we conceal any thing from men we can by no means conceal it from God who alone looketh upon all things and seeth all things 19. Of the Reed and the Olive-tree 1. THE Reed and the Olive-tree disputed about their constancy strength and firmness 2. The Olive-tree indeed taunted the Reed because it was weak and bending with every wind 3. But the Reed held its peace waiting not very long 4. For when a great wind came the Reed was tossed and bent backward but the Olive-tree when it would needs strive against the violence of the winds was broken Mor. This fable implieth that they that give way to them that are stronger than themselves for a time are better than they that do not give way 20. Of the Trumpeter 1. THere was a Trumpeter that gave the alarum in the time of battle 2. He being taken by the enemies cryed out to them that stood about him 3. Do not kill me men that am harmless and innocent 4. For I never killed any man 5. For I have nothing else but this Trumpet 6. To whom they answered again with an out-cry 7. Thou shalt be killed the rather for this because when thou thy self canst not fight thou canst set others on to fight Mor. This fable implieth that they offend more than others who persuade evil and wicked Princes to do unjustly 21. Of the Fowler and the Viper 1. A Fowler having talen his birding nets went a fowling and when he saw a stock-dove sitting in the top of a tree he moved his reeds set artificially with his nets closely towards the bird hoping he should be able to catch her 2. Which as he did gazing up on high he trod upon a viper that lay there which being vexed with the smart bit the man 3. But he now ready to faint said Alas poor man Who whilst I would catch another being my self catch'd by another am undone Mor. This fable implieth that deceitfull men hide their treacherous tricks and yet do often suffer the same from others 22. Of the Reaver that geldeth himself 1. THE Beaver is said to continue in the water more than other four-footed beasts and that his stones are very good indeed in Physick 2. When he seeth that he is like to be caught when men hunt him for he knoweth why he is hunted after be himself bites off his cods and throwing them towards them that pursue him by this means escapes safe Mor. This fable sheweth that wise men ought by his example to have no regard of their means so they may obtain safety 23. Of the Tunie and the Dolphin 1. A Tunie as he fled from a Dolphin that pursued him with full speed and was just ready to be taken wound himself fast in a narrow creek 2. The Dolphin also with his very force was dash'd upon another like it 3. At which the Tunie looking back and seeing him gasping said 4. Now my death doth not grieve me whilst I see him that was the cause of my death dying with me Mor. This fable sheweth That men bear their miseries patiently when they see them miserable that were the causers of their miseries 24. Of the Dog and the Butcher 1. A Dog leaping into a Butchers shop whilst the Butcher was busied about something having snatched up a beast's heart ran away 2. Towards which the Butcher turned and looking after him as he ran said 3. O dog I shall watch you wherever you shall be 4. For thou hast not stolen away my heart but hast put heart into me Mor. This fable teacheth that loss is always a lesson to men 25. Of the Fortune-teller 1. A Fortune-teller sat in the market and talked 2. To whom one brought news that his house-doors were broken open and that all the goods that were in the house were taken away 3. At which tidings the fortune-teller sighing and running for speed went home 4. Whom one seeing running
drowsie persons that live upon other folks labours are severely to be punished 79. Of a Mule 1. A Mule being fed fat with too much barley grew wanton because she was too fat and said with her self 2. A horse was my sire which was a very good courser and I am like him in all things 3. A little after it fell out that the Mule was to run full speed but when she tired in the race she sâ—id 4. Wo is me poor wretch who thought I had been a horses daughter but now I remember that an Ass was my sire Mor. This fable signifieth that fools forget themselves in prosperity but in adversity they oftentimes see their own errors 80. Of the Tunie and the Dolphin 1. A Tunie when a Dolphin pursued it fetching a great leap with a noise was tâ—ssed by a great wave upon an Island and the Dolphin too was carried by the same wave upon the same rock whilst it thought to catch the tunie 2. The tunie turning her self when she saw the Dolphin gasping said with her self 3. It doth not much trouble me to die seeing I see the causer of my death to die with me Mor. Tâ—is fable signifieth that any one beareth adversity more lightly when he seeth the causers of his adversity to be troubled with the like 81. Of a Physician 1. A Physician when a sick man chanced to die whom he had in cure said to them that carried the corps to be buried 2. If the man had kept himself from wine and made use of clysterâ— he would not have died 3. One of those that were there said wittily to the Physician 4. Ho Doctor that advice should have been given when it might have done good not now when it can do no good at all Mor. The fable signifieth that when advice doth no good to give it at that time is indeed to befool a friend 82. Of the Fowler 1. A Fowler went a birding with twigs and bird-lime and when he saw a Thrussel sing above upon the bough of a tree he set up his lime wands to caâ—ch her 2. But as he went he trod on a viper with one foot and being â—itten by it when he perceived himself ready to faint because of the poyson 3. He sighed and said Wo is me poor man for whilst I hasted to caâ—ch another another hath pursued me to death Mor. The fable signifieth that we oftentimes our selves suffer from another those things which we endeavour to do against others 83. Of the Beaver 1. THE Beaver is a four-footed living creature which maintaineth it self in fens its stones are said to be good for sundry cures 2. And therefore when any one pursueth him being not ingnorant of the reason why he is pursued and trusting to the swiftness of his feet he runs away as fast as he can until he come safe to a place that 〈◊〉 may not be seen 3. And there cutting off his stones he throweth them at the hunters when they come near him and by that means acquits himself from the hunters Mor. The fable signifieth that a wise man leaveth nothing unassayed that he may acquit himself from dangers 84. Of a Boy that kept Sheep 1. A Boy when he kept sheep in a plain place often cried out Do you hear Oh I help me against the Wolves 2. The plowmen that were thereabout leaving their plowing and running to help him and finding that there was nothing fall again to their work 3. When the boy had done this a many times to make sport behold when the wolf came for certain the boy calls out in earnest that some body would come and help him 4. When the husbandmen thinking that it was not true went not to help him the wolf easily worried the sheep Mor. The fable signifieth that he that is known to lye is not afterwards believed when he speaketh the truth 85. Of the Crow and the Fox 1. A Crow when she had snatch'd up a piece of flesh sat upon a tree 2. A fox seeing her and being desirous to have the flesh for himself sets upon her with a wile 3. As he stood therefore under the tree he began to commend thâ— crow saying 4. O what a great bird is this how brave what a bird of prey how fair 5. It was fit that this should have been the King of the Birds 6. For she hath every thing more stately than other birds if she had but a voice 7. As the crow being prest up with these commendations and not being able to endure any longer to be said to be dumb croaked with a loud voice the flesh fell on the ground 8. When the fox had snatcht it up he turned himself to the crow and saith 9. Oh crow thou hast every thing handsom if so be thou didst not want wit Mor. The fable signifieth that they that believe flatterers too much do oft fall into those miseries which they do not think on 86. Of the Dog and the Wolf 1. WHen a Dog slept before the hall a Wolf came upon him and caught him presently and when he would have killed him the dog intreated him that he would not kill him saying 2 Good master wolf do not kill me now for as you see I am but thin and slender and lean 3. But my Master is like to make a wedding ere long where if you will but tarry for me a little I having fed daintily and become fatter shall be then better for thee 4. The wolf trusting these words let the dog go 5. When the wolf coming a few days after found the dog sleeping at home he stood before the hall wished the dog to perform his promise to him 6. But the dog said wittily O wolf if ever thou find me hereafter before the Hall tarry for the wedding no longer Mor. The fable signifieth that a wise man when once he hath avoided danger doth ever after take heed of it 87. Of the sick Raven 1. WHen a Raven was sick he intreated his dam to Pray to the gods for his recovery saying 2. Mother do not weep but rather pray the gods to restore my health 3. His mother answered him quickly Which of the gods dost thoâ— think will be mercifull unto thee seeing there is none from whose altarâ— thou hast not snatched away holy things Mor. The fable signifieth that he that offendeth any body in prosperity can find no man his friend in adversity 88. Of the Dog that carried the flesh 1. AS a Dog carried a piece of flesh in his mouth and went over 〈◊〉 river when he saw the shadow under the water he thought 〈◊〉 was another dog that carried more flesh 2. And therefore he let that flesh which he carried go under th water and moved himself to catch the shadow but he lost the flesh and the shadow both together which indeed were nothing Mor. This fable signifieth that out of a desire of having always more we do ofttimes lose the things which we enjoy 89. Of
said 3. Those bunches of grapes are too sour yet Mor. The fable signifieth that it is the property of a wise man to seign that he is unwilling to have that which he knows he cannot get 117. Of the Boy and the Scorpion 1. A Boy sought after Grashoppers in the Country and when he would have taken a Scorpion the Scorpion after she knew his simplicity said to him 2. Oh boy keep thee quiet and hold off thy hand if thou wilt not be wholly undone Mor. The fable signifieth that he knoweth well what he ought to avoid and what to follow that considereth both ways 118. Of the Fowler and the Partridge 1. WHen a Fowler would have killed a partridge which he had caught the partridge sighed and said thus unto him 2. Oh thou partridge-catcher if thou wilt let me go and grant me my life I will fetch thee in many more other partridges 3. And the fowler answered handsomly Now I think thou deservest the rather to be killed because thou promisest to destroy thy friends by treachery Mor. The fable signifieth that he that seeketh by treachery to undo his friends falleth headlong into danger 119. Of the Hare and the Tortoise 1. A Tortoise when a Hare jeered at his feet smiled and said to her 2. If thou wilt run a race with me thou shalt clearly see that I am swifter than thou art 3. To whom the Hare said Thou dost not know what my feet can do but let us choose us a judge that may set us out a race and a goal 4. Thereupon they made choice of a fox being the wittiest of all bruâ—ts which appointed them the place and the goal of the race 5. The Tortoise having abandoned all sloth and negligence setting on her journey never rested till she came at the goal 6. But the hare trusting to her feet after she had rested her a little awoke and ran to the goal as fast as her legs could carry her 7. And when she found the tortoise resting there she confessed with shame that the tortoise had won of her Mor. The fable signifieth that even very great matters will be dispatched by care and diligence not by strength of body 120. Of the Sallow and the Ax. 1. WHen the Ax fell'd a Sallow-tree it made wedges of it with which it might more easily cleave the Sallow 2. Which thing the Sallow perceiving it sighed and wailed saying 3. I do not so much complain of the ax which cutteth me by mens hands as of the wedges which are made out of my own body Mor. The fable signifieth that in adversity oftentimes friends that are not true are more infestuous to friends than enemies are 121. Of the Boy and his Mother 1. A Boy having closely pilfered a book from his fellow out of the school gave it to his mother which when his mother willingly received and did not correct her son the boy stole a cloak from another and brought it to his mother too 2. Which when his mother also received willingly the boy wanting correction after he had stole more things day by day and greater matters as his years grew on was at last publickly taken and openly condemned by the Sheriffs to die as being guilty of theft 3. But when he was brought to the place of justice and his mother followed him crying after he had got leave to speak a word to his mother in her ear he turned to her and holding his mouth to his mothers ear as if he were about to tell her some secret he bit off her ear 4. His mother cried out because of the smart and cursed him 5. Then they that led him along blamed him exceedingly not only for his theft but because he was so ungracious towards his mother 6. But he said to them without blushing Let none of you wonder that I have bit off my mothers ear for she her self hath been the author and cause of this my undoing 7. For if she had corrected me when I brought her a book which I first filched from my fellow out of the school having left my thievery for fear of stroaks I should never have come for the present to this kind of base death Mor. The fable signifieth that he that in doing amiss is not corrected at the very first becometh more wicked every day than other 122. Of the Shepherd and the Sea 1. A Shepherd feeding sheep by the Sea-shore when he once saw the sea calm having a mind to sail he changed his sheep for dates which being shipt when now be was put forth into the main sea and was tossed to and fro with a storm without any hope of being saved he threw all those things that were in the ship into the sea and with much ado got into a haven 2. Soon after when be kept sheep and saw the sea now calm again he said jestingly to his fellow that commended the calmness of the sea The sea would have dates again Mor. The fable signifieth that use and experience make us more wary amidst dangers 123. Of the Peach-tree and the Apple-tree 1. THE Peach-tree and the Apple-tree were at a controversie whether was the fairer 2. When they had striven a long time one with another with sundry and sharp debates a bramble out of the next hedge hearing their contests came to them and said 3. You have striven enough and too much betwixt your selves be very quiet and put an end to your brabbles Mor. The fable signifieth that meaner men do oftentimes settle the controversies of their betters 124. Of the Mole and its Dam. 1. THE Mole is a living creature blind by nature 2. She said once to her dam. I perceive a great smell 3. A little after she saith again I see a high chimney 4. Again a third time she saâ—â— I hear the noise of smith's hammers 5. Her mother said gently to her O daughter thou as far as I perceive art deprived not only of thine eyes but also of thy nose and ears Mor. The fable signifieth That bragging fellows when they profess great matters are then most of all confuted in the smallest 125. Of the Wasps the Partridges and the Husbandman 1. WHen once the wasps and the partridges being thirsty were met together they went to a Country-man begging drink of him and promised that they would abundantly requite him for his water 2. For the partridges promise to dig him his vineyard so that his vines should yield full clusters of grapes 3. And the wasps proffer largely that they would defend his vineyard by going about it and keep thieves away thence 4. To whom the husbandman said I have two oxen which though they promise nothing do nevertheless do the same work 5. And therefore it is better for me to give them water than you Mor. The fable signifieth that we must not help to maintain them that are idle an unprofitable 126. Of Jupiter 1. WHen Jupiter made a wedding every living creature offered him presents each as
Cockles 1. A Country-man's son rosted Cockles 2. And when he heard them chirp he said O ye base living creatures do you sing when your houses are on fire Mor. The fable signifieth that every thing done unseasonably is discommendable 160. Of the Woman and her Maid 1. A Widow woman being given to work and having maids was wont to raise them up by night to their work by the cocks crow 2. And these being tired every day with work thought it best to kill the house-cock as him that called up their mistriss by night 3. But it befell them that when this was done they fell into a greater mischief for the mistriss not knowing the cock hour called them up more unseasonably Mor. The fable signifieth that to many men their own devices are occasions of harm 161. Of the Witch 1. A Woman that was a Witch promising to with-hold Gods wrath went on to do many things and to make a gain thereby 2. Some therefore accused her of impiety and convicted her and had her along after she was condemned to death 3. But one seeing her to be had along said Thou which promisedst to avert Gods wrath how couldst thou not be able to alter mens purposes Mor. The fable signifieth that many men promising great matters are not able to do the least 162. Of the Husbandman 1. A Husbandman as he digged found gold therefore he crowned the earth every day as having received a good turn from it 2. But Fortune standing by him said Ho you sir why do you attribute my gifts to the earth which I gave thee to enrich thee 3. For if time should alter and this gold of thine should go into other bands I know you will blame me Fortune Mor. This tale signifieth that one ought to acknowledge his benefactor and to give him thanks 163. Of the Travellers 1. TWO men went a Journey together and when one had found a hatchet the other that had not found it advised him that be should not say I have found but We have found 2. A little while after when they which had â—ost the hatchet made after them he that had it said as they pursued them to him that went along with him We are undone 3. But he said Say I am undone not We are undone for even then when thou foundest the hatchet thou saidest I have found not We have found Mor. The fable signifieth that they that have not been sharers of our prosperity will not be fast friends in our adversity 164. Of the two Frogs 1. TWO Frogs lived near to one another but they fed the one in a deep pond and far from the way the other in the way having little water 2. Now when that which was in the pond advised the other that she would remove to her that she might feed more safely she did not do as she advised her saying That she being used to that place was mightily taken with it untill it fell out that a waggon passing that way crushed her all to mash Mor. The fable signifieth that even men that attempt small matters will rather die than change for the better 165. Of the Bee-Master 1. ONE going into a Bee-garden when the Master was away stole the honey-combs 2. But as soon as he when he came again saw the hives empty he stood and searched what was in them 3. But the bees returning from feeding as soon as they found him stung him and used him very badly 4. And he said unto them O ye base living creatures do you let him go without any hurt that stole your combs and do ye sting me that am busie about your good Mor. The fable signifieth that some men through their ignorance do not beware of their enemies but resist their friends as they that go about to betray them 166. Of the Kings-fisher 1. A Kings-fisher is a solitary bâ—â—d that always lives in the Sea it is said that she to avoid mens catching her doth build in rocks near the sea 2. But once being about to breed she made her nest 3. And when she went out to feed it happened that the sea being stirred by a great wind was lifted above her nest and when it was drowned destroyed her young ones 4. And she returning when she knew the matter said Wo is me poor wretch who avoiding the land as treacherous have fled to this which is far more unfaithfull to me Mor The fable signifieth that some men in avoiding their enemies have ignorantly light upon friends that are far worse than enemies 167. Of the Fisherman 1. A Fisher-man fished in a River 2. And when he had cast out his nets and encompassed the stream on both sides and tyed a stone to the rope he plunged the water that the fish avoiding him might fall into his net unawares 3. Now when one of them that dwelt near the place saw him do that he chid him because he muddied the river and did not suffer him to drink clear water 4. And he answered But unless the river be thus muddied I must starve for hunger Mor. The fable signifieth that Governours of Cities then get most when they have drawn the Countries into sidings 168. Of the Ape and the Dolphin 1. WHen it was in fashion for sailors to carry little pretty dogs and apes with them to make them merry as they sailed one had an ape with him 2. And when they came to Sunium a Cape of Attica it happened that there was a great tempest and when the ship was overwhelmed and every man swam the ape also swam 3. A dolphin having espied him and supposing it was a man stept out of his way and bare him up and carried him to land 4. And as he was in Pyraeeum a road for ships belonging to Athens he asked the ape whether he was an Athenian born 5. And when he said He was and that he was come of noble parents there he asked him whether he knew Pyraeum too 6. Now the ape supposing him to speak of a man said That he was both a very great friend and a familiar acquaintance of his 7. But the Dolphin being vexed with such a great lye ducked him under the water and killed him Mor. The fable is against men that are ignorant of the truth and think they can deceive others 169. Of the Flies 1. WHen honey was spilt in a cellar the Flies flew to it and ate it up 2. And when their feet was fast in it they could not flie away 3. And when they were ready to be drâ—wned they said Wo is us poor wretches because we die for a little food Mor. The fable signifieth that gluttony is the cause of many mischiefs to many men 170. Of Mercury and the Statuary 1. MErcury being desirous to know how much men respected him went into a statue-maker's house being transformed into a man and when he saw the statue of Jupiter he asked what one might buy it for 2. And when the man said For a groat he