to admit you for his principal Secretary a place of unspeakable profit undoubtedly When the Bear and the Cat heard such mountains of Honour and Profit were like to fall in their Laps and that so suddenly their countenances and intentions were quite altered and they with all due reverence saluted and honoured the Lord Pitwood calling him the honourble Lord chief Prelate and for the Lord Reynard they told his Lordship they should never be able sufficiently to trumpet out his Praises who had so highly promoted his Enemies in an extraordinary manner After this they took their leaves and departed far more second than they came CHAP. V. Of the Assembly of the Commons â—â—d what passed there Then Reynard the Fox rose up and after he had with a great shew of courtesie bowed himself to the Assembly he began to speak thus Worthy Sirs his Majesty our Royal King taking care of the well-being of all his Subjects in general could not without grief think of the sad and deplorable state you all have been left in since the Death * The true Emblem of an Hypocrite grieves me to speak it of Bellin and downfall of his Posterity therefore he in his Princely wisdom for Princes certainly are far wiser then their Subjects hath thought of a most excellent expedient to prevent the enormities you were too-too apt to run into for want of Teachers and Guides to direct you better Therefore he advised with this incomparably learned Lord Pitwood requesting as far as beseemeth the Majesty of a King to request him for the good of himself and all his liege people to improve his great Learning to the general good of us all This Noble Lord was so far from excusing himself and avoiding or shunning this burthen some office as he readily and cheerfully accepts of the same and not only so but also promiseth to engage all his Lineage little less learned than himself in the same Offices and Employments We the Lords being then all present and setting in Councel by his Majesties command seeing his great readiness and alacrity and also knowing how conducent it would be to the well being of all could not chuse but by our joint consent vote him to be the Lord chief Prelate throughout all his Majesties Dominions Thus was he not without mature deliberation chosen by us and the choice confirmed by the King himself Before he had ended these words there was heard a rumor among the multitude which at length grew louder and louder Mistakes in a multitude do sometimes give opportunity to the Judicious of making their minds known Then the Fox feared some one or other had descried the false mask he with his greatest cunning had put upon the business But after silence was commanded it proved not altogether so For among those who stood furthest from the Scaffold there were some who asked what Lord that was that then spake which question made the greatest part of the By-standers to laugh supposing it not possible for any of the Company not to know the Fox This noise being heard among them by others that stood farther off made them also to ask one another what the noise meaned they that stood nearest the Scaffold were most of them Bellin's friends who had placed themselves there on purpose the better to descry the Lord Pitwood's person as he was called Subtil Politicians whensoever they fear a discovery of their false Paints and Disguises immediately betake them selves to lying smooth words full of guile whom they plainly knew to be Isegrim the Wolf therefore presently being asked by the Crier what the noise meant they said the Company behind desired to know of what Country the Lord Pitwood was some of them supposing others affirming they had never seen him before and therefore were not willing to have a stranger imposed upon them The Fox hearing this again bowed himself to the Company and said Loving Friends and fellow Subjects I marvel not that it is supposed by some and believed by others that this honourable Lord Pitwood here present is a stranger or foreigner because he indeed all his life-life-time with his whole Family and Lineage hath lived a life so obscure and secret as never did any Monk in a Cloyster live more retired besides he is so holy and debout as the like of him is not to be found in the whole World Moreover he is so silent and of so few words so humble gentle affable and kind as I know not whether any mortal wight living may be compared unto him And that is the reason he is so little known for had be discovered himself before the King by his Princely Wisdom took notice of him undoubtedly The most ignorant most readily assent to what they understand not none of you would in the least have suspected him to be a stranger But this your suspition had indeed ground enough therefore his Majesty is not in the least offended with you but wills that you give your Approbation by holding up your right Hands Then the greatest part of the Assembly held up their right hands and many that scarce heard what was said held up both After this Pitwood the Wolf and his Linage bowed themselves to the Company but spake not a word least their Teeth should be seen When this was done the King willed the Fox to speak to the Assembly before they were dismissed about Pitwood's Linage Therefore the Fox standing up again said His Majesty is highly pleased with this your Approbation and commanded me to thank you all His further pleasure is that the Lord Pitwood's Linage be recommended to you for you assent for confirming their Offices under himself now Lord chief Prelate as to these persons in declaring the worth and goodness of their Father I have not detracted any thing from them for they all have led the same life with him have béen always under his Tutelage and still will be under his Governance so as although any of them should by reason of his Youth err yet his Father will quickly espy it and reclaim him therefore I think you cannot do better for your selves nor better please the King's Majesty than to discover your assent by holding up your hands Then as before the greatest part held up their hands and Pitwood and his Lineage also bowed themselves again but spake not When this business was so well effected to the great content of the King and Nobles but especially of the Fox and Wolf It was thought convenient to dismiss the Commons Therefore Grimbard the Brock was commanded to intimate so much to them which very formally he did first by thrée O yes's commanding silence afterward by speaking to the Assembly in this manner Our Puissant King and all his Nobles give great thanks to you all for your so reâ—dy attendance this day and also for that you have so chearfully assented to what was proposed therefore for your better commodity and that you may with greater ease
at the Meeting of the Lords ON the morrow early Bitleas the Ape journeyed to his Nephew Reynard's Castle and when he was let in he spake to the Fox in this manner Honoured Nephew I hear your commendations so highly commemorated as I am above measure joyed thereat The Nobles are all at your devotion there is not one of them but he is ready to hazard Life and Fortune for your further advancement You know my meaning Nephew do you not Yes Uncle said the Fox I know it well enough for I can step but one step higher and I think it not time as yet to begin that Ascent No no said the Ape you mistake me Nephew if you think I mention this to engage your Lordship into any rash attempt but rather that you knowing your Friends may the better understand how to use them when occasion is You speak very well Uncle said the Fox Will you do one thing â—or me Yes said the Ape that I will Cousin if possiâ—â—e Then said the Fox go to every of the Lords apart and sound them to sée how they stand affected and bring me an exect account So the Ape with all diligence sounded them and found not one dissenting but largely promising to hazard all to invest the Lord Reynard with Regal Power Only he As in all Treasons some one principal person is employed by the Grand Projector to sound the intentions of all the Conspirators so here the Ape is imployed by the Fox to fathom the Affections and Resolutions of all the other Confederate Traytors This shews great craft in the Projector for if any one had dissented he then had a fair occasion to accuse all the other and so clear himself perceived that the Bear scrupled his Oath to the King because he said If he were but absolved there-from he would be none of the backwardest to promote this design All this he related to Reynard three days after Then Reynard said smiling Uncle you have done me a great kindness I will repay it ere long As for Bruin's doubt I can easily remove it for I am sure the Lord Pitwood will absolve both him and my self from that Oath extorted from us by the King so soon as time shall serve for effecting this business Yet we must not only relie on the Favour of the Lords but by the best means we can engage the Commons also It is true Nephew said the Ape but how that will be done I cannot tell for if Soldiers should be listed that would never be done so secretly but it would be blâ—zed abroad and so come easily to the King's ear No Uncle said the For that is not the way We must proceed after another manner than visibly to raise any Soldiers Each Lord must by promise and reward engage as many of the Commons as he can pretending a private Quarrel in which he would have their assistance and therefore injoyn them to be ready armed at any time when he shall call Bitelas the Apt admiring his Nephews Wisdom said This is the direct way to raise an Army invisibly To this the Fox said if we intend to effect our business throughly we must not visibly raise Soldiers until the hour appointed be fully come then how squares will go we shall soon know and if our first Exploit prosper all the other will succeed accordingly and we shall need the fewer Soldiers Therefore the stress of all lies in managing the business well at first If we miscarry at first our Design will scarcely be effected ney it is well if our own Ruin fall not in as an Appendix The Ape hearing this said You do well Cousin to promise the worst this seems to me a sure presage of the future Event that it will be exceeding prosperous Well Uncle said the Fox if it prosper and I obtain my desired end I will honour and reward you above all others Thus did the Fox disloyally intend the ruin of his Soveraign his greatest friend to whom he had solemnly sworn fealty but what success he had shall hereafter be shewed CHAP. XII Of the Discourse between the Fox and the Wolf and of another Meeting of the Lords and what was agreed on among them THe Fox now filled with hopes of obtaining the height of all power resolved to let pass no opportunity of promoting his design therefore the first leisure-leisure-time he had he bestowed in Conference with the Wolf Who not only promised his Assistance but also to absolve him and the Bear from their Oath of fidelity Telling the Fox that all the Lords he was sure were like minded with him If so said the Fox it were necessary loving Uncle to summon the Lords as privately as may be That is done already said the Wolf and they will be all here by and by but I willed the Messenger not to summon you because I intended so soon as they were all sat down to dispatch an Herauld presentlâ— to you This course I thought would be best for who soever should at that time have been with you they would have judged that the King was here and so not have offered their service to come and attend you hither because of the haste all know you are wont to make when his Majesty sends By this time several of the Lords were come in most of them entring through the back-gate for fear of being suspected Now as every one came in he first saluted the Fox with great Reverence then the chief Prelate Isegrim lately stiled Pâ—twood When all were come each sate down orderly in his wonted place Pitwood the Wolf stood up and bowing himself a little said My Lords here is now present the Noble and Puissant Lord Reynard of whom Fame hath made such a loud report c. I have disclosed your intentions to him and he very well approving thereof now gives you this meeting Then the Fox stood up and said My Lords and loving Fridnds I am not ignorant of your affectionate desire to advance me yet one step higher than I at present am I also am informed that for effecting this you will hazard Life and Fortune for which I give you great thanks and will not fail to return a proportionable recompence if ever I attain â—he wished end yet I cannot understand you have to your selveâ— proposed what way to take to bring about your purpose Then Sir Bâ—uin the Bear lately made Earl of the Forests said Noble Lord Reynard we are all ready to serve you and follow the Directions your Lordship shall think good to propose The Fox hearing this said he could propose an expedient course which being taken would further the design and yet not be perceived but before he did that he desired to be absolved from the Oath of Fealty which he and Bruin the Bear swore to the King The Lord Pitwood hearing this stood up and said I here absolve you Lord Reynard and you Sir Bruin of the Oath you have taken c. and you are absolved
secret places said If it be your Majesties pleasure to see any of Bellins stock I can easily satisfie your Majesty therein for I am familiarly acquainted with many of them especially with Bellins Grandson and two more of the Eldest of them who by reason of their discretion have retired themselves from the fury of the Bear and Wolf and live safely in a small piece of ground well fenced The King hearing this said Send for the three you speak of or go your self and fetch them So that Lord immediately went to the Meadow where they three dwelt alone and first saluted them as he was wont at other times afterward told his Errand withal in what condition the Wolfs Kindred stood and how they were like to lose their Offices suddenly They knowing the realty of their Friend doubted nothing but went along with him to the Court. When they were thither come they by the same Lord were brought into the Kings presence who looking cheerfully upon them said I am glad to see you indeed for I supposed you had been all destroyed before this time I do confess when I gave my consent to the publishing that Edict I thought I had done that which was right but since understanding by the Traytor Reynards own words that he was the Murtherer of Kayward and not your Father I heartily repented of what I had done Therefore before you depart from us we will And a good Pâ—â—nce having once câ—nsented to the wrong of other through the perfidiâ—â—â— actings â— tâ—eacherooâ— persons is never satiâ—fied till he hath compleatly recompenced that wrong as tar as is possible aholish that law and every part of it totally as if it had never béen Accordingly that Law was repeâ—let and â—â—de vâ—id that very day and Proclamation made that if any Bâ—ust whatsoever committed any out-rage against any of Bellins Lineage young or old they thould die for it Vpon this these three persons were so well satisfied and assured of their peace and safety as they came â—ily to vâ—sit this Lord and sometimes went in to the King himself owning his favour and protection as the greatest happiness that could befall them Also the King himself delighted in their company very much for séeing their simplicity and good behaviour he was not weary of seeing them but rather thought they were long â—bsent if he saw them not once a day CHAP. XXXI How the Wolves behaved themselves in their Offices after the Date of the Proclamation was expired and how they were suddenly ruined By this time the ten days expressed in the Kings Preclemation were fully ended and the Wolves much against their wills had laid a side their Disguises Vpon this whensoever any one of the Commons came to any of their Houses to commune with them or present them any 〈◊〉 so soon as he saw the Wolf not masked he would run away as hard as he could and acquaint all he met that he went to one of the Prelates Sons and sound none in his house except a Wolf loâ—king gastly upon him The Wolvâ—s â—erceiving they were utterly undone if their Cilenâ—s should be coustantly thus frighted knew not what course to take therefore the subtilest of them when any of the Commons came either to see them or to pay their â—â—es or to present them with ought laid themselves down pretending they were not well and that they might not be seen as they were they spread over them a Coverlet of some other skin as if they were laid in a Sweat by the Phisicians order and so under that would speak advising them to leave what they brought in such or such a corner of the House This shift held water a while but long it could not for the most inconsiderate and the youngest of the Wolves would rather run the hizard than be stâ—â—ved therefore they again put on their Gowns and such as came to them then were not frighted as the other who saw them without those Gowns had been But so soon as this was blâ—zed abroad some of Bellins friends Wolfish Natures when openly seen are abominable to all came to the Houses of these foolish Wolves and well marking them said nothing but went and immediately informed against them offering to prove their contempt of the King and his Lawe When this their Relation was heard by the King he sent for those Wolves and after proof made of their contempt he hanged up Seventéen of them for no more were then taken the other being fled for fear The Execution of these terrifled all the other so as if you would have perswaded them with an assurance of never so great seerâ—siâ— to have put their Gowns on again but for one minute they would not have done it nay they absolutely hated that Gâ—â—b ever after By this means the Wolves were in extreâ—m penury and needs must so be for in a very short time it was known to all the Commons that the Liueage of Pitwood and be himself had been and were all very Wolves and that Furr Gown which Pitwood himself wore and all the Gowns of his Lineage were the true and natural Garments of Bellin and Bellins Kindred which Garments they took from them as often as any one of that Race fell into their hands The matter being thus clearly known the King had no need to think of displacing them because their Officeâ— fell from them immediately after it was fully understood what they wâ—â—e For all the Commons did not only fly from â—â—rm but also hardâ—d together against them if in the day-time any one of them stirred abroad he was in danger of his Life thâ—â— all eâ—â—ing A Wolf a Wolf kill him kill him This hard usâ—ge made the Wolves to keep close and not be seen abroad at all in the day-time 〈◊〉 they of necessity must go forth to purvey for food and accordingly they did but always in fear of being taken so as they ever after led a poor and miserable Life until they eâ—ther died or were forgot CHAP XXXII How the King rejoycing at the Wolves ruin distributed their wealth among the Commons and then openly shewed his love to Dâ—lin's Kiâ—dred and commanded all his Subjects to fellow their-Instructions c. WHen the King saw the effect of his Proclamation what a ruin it had brought on Isegrims Lineage he was highly contented in his mind and said to that Lord who before said Pull but off the Mask and there needs no more now my Friend the Mask is off and there needs no more With that the same Lord bowed himself and said Your Majesty is now freed from the â—are of displating them But who would have thought they should so suddenly have been ruined How could it be otherwise said the King certainly the Traytor Reynard well knew that Isegrim would never have been admitted by the Commons into his Office had he not worn that Disguise For Isegrim and his whole Tribe were always hateful to the Commons and would always have
journey to your own homes his Royal Majesty and all his noble Lords here present have commanded me to dismiss you and you are dismissed for this time Vpon this the Assembly brake up some greatly contented others doubtful and not a few plainly sorrowful for what had passed When the Field began to be emptyed and it was thought there was way enough for the King and his Nobles to walk to the Palace The King first descended after him Knaves and Foâ—l the first for self-ends the last iâ— imitation honour the worthy and most wicked the Lord Reynard then the Lord Pitwood and his Lineage with such seeming soberness as many of the Commons that stayed to see the fight admired the gravity of him and his The Fox observing the Lord Pitwood was gazed upon stept a little back and walked directly before him bare-headed the Bear and Cat seeing this placed themselves on each side of him likewise bare headed after him followed his Lineage all in order and after them the Nobles and lastly Grimbard the Breck leading a great Treop of Seâ—vitors that attended on the King and Nobles In this Equipage marched they till the King was ready to enter his own Palace then did the Trumpets sound and all manner of other Musick was heard in a melodious manner constantly playing until all the whole company was entred the Royal Palace CHAP. VI. How the King invited his Nobles the next day to a Feast and what pafled thereat WHen all the Nobles and their Followers were entred the Palace the King willed them all to sit down and told them the business of the day holding so long and the issue also of the same being dubious he would not resolve what to do but now his affairs being setled according to his wish he desired they would all accompany him on the morrow at a Feast which should be prepated for them and then he would further declare his mind They hearing this all took their leaves and departed every one to his own home In the mean while the King sent out his Purveyors into all parts who provided store of Venison and other Cates in abundance When the morrow was come and noon drew nigh they all came much about one time and after obeysance made all took their places at the Table the Fox sitting down on the right hand of the King and the Wolf on his left and all the other Nobles in order giving place still to Pitwood's Lineage so as they sate all intermixt among them When they were all sate the Servitors brought in Meat dressed in divers manners with curious Sauces and set it before them Grace being ended the King cuts first of the Dish that stood nearest him bidding his Guests to fall to They all in like manner lay hands of what was nearest them and soon made a clear board Then those empty platters removed other full Dishes provided for a second course were set on the Table while this was doing the King calls to his Servitors for Wine which was brought and the Cup given into the Kings hand he drank to all his Guests bidding them welcome withal commanding to fill unto every one that sate at the Table This being done they fall to the second course and then began to talk a little The Servitors fearing by their eating so much Gluttons will always eat greedily although siâ—â—ting at the Table of a King none would be left for them take away the second course and bring in the third without bidding and as before fill Wine to the King first and afterward to the whole Assembly And this order they kept in all the following courses till the Feast was done Now when the Feast was ended the King and all the Company looked very chearfully one upon another and the King first of all said How bravely did our Cousin Reynard manage his business yesterday To this the Wolf who during the Feast had said nothing least his Téeth should be séen too plainly by the Servitors replyed he did indeed most Puissant Prince act no otherwise then as if he had been inspired by an Oracle in truth I was afraid all would not be well when that rumour and murmuring noise was heard among the Commons That verily put me also to a stand said the For and I was a little troubled till I heard what the matter was then I knew I was able to put an end to that murmuring I am glad all things are so well said the King it will be our parts now to endeavour It is honourable in a King to give good Counsell but it is baseness in a Subject not to regard the same as this Chapter and the whole History following clearly prove for although here the Wolf for himself by his silence and the Fox for him by a long and lying discourse solomnly promise to observe all the King commanded or advised to yoâ— they neither of them ever in tended to perform the same to keep them so Therefore to you my Lord Pitwood I now speak I hope the Honour we have conferred on you and yours here present will never be forgot for whosoever is unmindful of benefits deviates from all honesty Our Subjects are numerous and all of them as I well noted did not consent to your Approbation though the major part which is sufficient indeed did very cheerfully For this cause I would have you to consider you have Enemies as well as Friends which will be apt to espy all advantages and ready to exclaim against you so soon as they can find any occasion which will by nothing be sooner given than by pride and licentious living of which though I thus speak I hope I shall have no occasion to be jealous Then stood up Reynard the Fox and said Most dread Sovereign I dare engage my honour yea life and all for the good deportment of my Uncle For the reason why he heretofore was reputed churlish and licentious was because of his penury this now being totally removed by the office your Majesty hath given him can be no cause of stirring up in him such vices as were in times past condemnable in him because had he now no other estate to live on than his profits not to mention other Perquisites he must needs have so ample a competency as that he shall need to desire no more Yea I say his riches will be so great as he will be in a capacity rather to give to others than to need any thing more than what his office daily supplies him with Besides I consider him by my self it is well known to your Majesty how I was continually complained of by my Enemies accused of Murder Theft and Rapine as my former troubles do well witness untill your Majesty was pleased to advance me and conser on me so ample Treasures as I now possess Since this time not one Beast of all your Majesty's Subjects hath so much as opened his mouth against me It is true Reynard said the
know the Kings mind and so resisted but coldly But before Sir Firrapel was entred himself he charged Tibert the Cat to wait in one certain place without the gate that he might the better inform him how squares went and he when it was time to be gone have no let withal charging him to command his Soldiers to lie close round about the Walls of the Court that if called to on any side they might presently be ready to run and give intelligence Tibert did as he was commanded Now when Sir Firrapel and his Cousin Sly-look with all their Soldiers were entred and had stayed within some small time Sir Firrapel failed not to call to Tibert aloud saying the day is our own haste quickly and tell our Lord Reynard that all are dead whom he commanded should be killed Tibert hearing this sent two of his Soldiers to the Lord Pitwood who was not far with the whole Army to tell him the Newes but ran himself to the Lord Reynard and said Most noble Lord your renowned Captains Firrapel and Sly look have fully executed your Lordships commands and all your Enemies are dead this they have me tell you The Fox hearing this said It is good news indeed if it be true True Sir said the Cat I 'le warrant you Nevertheless the Fox like an old Soldier would not believe the first report but sent away Politick persons believe not reports by Hear-say but require a Testimony from fight Sir Tibert commanding him to enter into the Court if possible and then to tell him what he knew In the mean while Reynard commanded Pitwood the Wolf to march up to the Court-gates with the whole Army embattelled as they were and then to make a stand and call to him all the Commanders to advise what was fit to be done still as before wishing him to proceed warily and to be well informed before he attempted any thing But the Wolf being over-credulous and above measure joyful at the News he had heard forgat all counsel of wariness Therefore being come up he found Sir Firrapel and his Cousin Sly-look standing without the Court-gate with all their Soldiers ready embattelled within At this sight he was confirmed in his former conceit and therefore stepping a little before the Army he saluted them congratulating their prosperous success To this they answer We indeed noble Covetous and greedy minded men forgetting all good wholsome counsel given them rush headlong upon their own ruine where matter of profit is strewed as a bait Lord Pitwood did at first find some resistance but our Soldiers couragiously fighting soon overcame the Guard and then the King and his Friends were without difficulty dispatched Now my Lord if it be your pleasure to walk in and if your Honour will send for all the Commanâ—ers we may the better consult what is fit to be done within when we are all together and besides here is store of Provisions which were left of the Feast Here the Wolf interrupted Provisions Sir said he I am in truth very hungry having walked about all this night and with these words proffered to go in Then Sir Firrapel said I beseech your Lordship first to command the Army to stand still embattelled as they are and then to send for Sir Bruin and our other noble Commanders otherwise if your Lordship only enter your self the other Lords will suspect some Treason is plotted by us and so an irrecoverable distraction and danger will follow It is well considered Sir Firrapel said the Wolf So the Wolf presently commanded the Army to stay and rest themselves there where they were but that the Commanders should all repair unto him now gone into the Court. Which order was scarcely well understood before the Wolf was entred within the Court-gate he was in such haste to fill his belly as he supposed he should Now with him Sir Tibert would have entred but the Soldiers diligently watching on purpose to prevent him for they had order so to do put him by saying he might come in anon after the Nobles adding also this Here is not so much room within as to let in every one that comes So Tibert waited till all the Lords were come to the Gate seeing the guard of soldiers to open themselves to make way for them to come in advised a Nephew of his to enter in at one side of the gate slip between the Soldiers Legs and so get in His Nephew old so and was in Tibert himself walked under Bruin's belly and so was admitted unespied after Bruin the Bear all the other Commanders walked in not one was missing except Bitelas the Ape who was gone to his Cousin Reynard whether sent for by him or because he suspected the Treachery is not known When all were within the Court-gates were shut and all the Lords were immediately laid hold of and secured also Tibert the Cat with them but his Nephew seeing what was done in great fear leapt over that Soldiers head who would have taken him and so escaped Sir Firrapel understanding that Tiberts Nephew was gone knew it was high time to disperse the Army Therefore he with four hundred Soldiers sallyed out upon them charging them who were before disordered in so furious a manner as most of them fled leaving their Arms behind them many of were taken Prisoners and sent into the Court but some few escaped and ran to Reynard's Company CHAP. XVII How the Fox consulting with his Uncle Bitelas the Ape returned to his Castle and dismissed part of his Soldiers THe Fox greatly perplered at the ruin of his Army of which he was too toosurely informed by the Run-aways and having just before understood how all the Nobles were betrayed he was almost at his wits end Bitelas the Ape seeing his Cousin Reynard so exceedingly overcome with grief said Cousin it is not the first time you have been in danger and yet have overcome all difficulties why not now Ah Uncle said the Fox there is a vast difference between what I then was and what I am now or at least was but three hours ago And I too well know that the greater any one is when he falls his fall is so much the more dangerous Before I vexed some few only and those not considerable persons but now I have displeased the King himself and Great disasters astâ—nish the most pâ—litick especially when the knowledg thereof comes unexpected as here is seen in the Fox who although before never had a shift to seek yet now is so consounded as he knows not which way to turn himself all his most intimate friends therefore I must needs be utterly undone But Cousin said the Ape have you not made some provision before-hand to secure your self in this time of need For every one that is wise will always provide for the worst Yes Uncle I hâ—ve done as much as could be for I fortified my Castle long before and have stored it with all sorts of
all night and I in the mean time will return home and send out my Mandates for raising the Countrey speedily and then undoubtedly we shall dispatch this business to our content So the King went to Court and his Son encamped the Army who for that night supped with what the Scouts brought in CHAP. XXII How the Fox's Soldiers in the night assailed the King's Camp and what ensued thereupon AFter Supper the Watch was ordered and Officers appointed to change the Centries often also to set Purdues to lie round about the Camp All this while the Fox was not idle but being extreamly discontented that he had lost so many of his Soldiers for the King's Scouts brought in above forty with their Booties studied how he might most annoy his Enemies in the Night Therefore in the deed of the Night he sent out a party of three hundred advising them to march silently and to encompass the Camp round and when they were drawn very near to it in their encompassing all at once to cry out aloud Now for the Lord Reynard and then immediately to assault the Centries first and afterward the Camp it self for he knew the Enemy were encamped very close together so as three hundred Soldiers all in a File might conveniently encompass it on every side This party was led by his Uncle Bitelas for the Fox would rather lose all the Friends he had than endanger his own person who very slyly marched his Soldiers in the form of an half Moon that so they might keep together and yet be in a posture ready to begirt the Camp suddenly This enterprise of his was perceived by the Purdues and timely intelligence given to the Lord Firrapel who himself watched He therefore on the other side of the Camp drew out his Soldiers This Chapter shews how provident Commanderâ— enervate and frustrate the policy and 〈…〉 their Enemies which he had in readiness and dividing them in two parts led one part himself and left the other part to the leading of his Lieutenant then march they softly round the Camp of two sides to meet with the Horns of the Enemies Half-Moon which they quickly met with engaged and routed and puâ—sued them till they were driven close together just before the other Gate of the Camp right opposite to that out of which the Lord Firrapel Issued the other Soldiers that were at rest in the Camp being allarum'd they flank their Enemies who were turned both ways to resist the Lord Firrapel and his Lieuteâ—â—â—â— in this miserable plight some throw down their Arms and yield themselves Prisoners others are slain outright among which Bitelas the Ape their Captain 〈◊〉 one many taken because of their Wounds which prevented their flight and some escapd to carry the News to Malepardus After the fight was done they numbred the Captives and found them to be a hundred and six the dead they accounted not till morning but then it appeared that of the King's Soldiers were slain six and several wounded but of Reynards Forces forty eight so that of the three hundred that issued out of Malepardus there returned but a hundred and 〈◊〉 six Thus in one day and a night Reynard lost two hundred of his three hundred seventy-five Soldiers which he seared would â—e too many CHAP. XXIII How the King gave command to proclaim all Traytors that assisted Reynard promising pardon to those that would desert him c. EArly in the morning the news of this Victory and of death of Bitelas the Ape was carryed to Court by one purposely sent thither to acquaint his Majesty how matters went The King greatly pleased with the newes thought of another way to weaken Reynard before the Countrey did come in Therefore he by the same Messenger sent an express order to his Son to draw out all his Forces out of the Camp and to march to Malepardus as close as was convenient and there in his name to proclaim all Traytors that assisted Reynard withal promising pardon to all that would desert him Vpon this Message the King's Son drew out all the Forces he had leaving not one in the Camp for he feared no enemy and marched dirctly to Malepardus being thither come and within the hearing of those within he commanded silence and afterward caused the Cryer to proclaim all Traytors that assisted Reynard but present pardon to all those who would within three hours desert him It is commonly seen that the followers of Traytors readily forsake them when they see a probability of securing themselves Vpon the hearing of this near an hundred of Reynard's Soldiers fled from him and came and offred their Service to the King But ere this was effected some thousands of the Commons who had been summoned by the King marched toward Malepardus The King's Son seeing them sent out certain Scouts to enquire what they were they answer they were summoned by the King to come and assist his Son in taking the Traytor Reynard So the young Prince being glad of this Supply did forthwith command them to begirt the Castle They accordingly lie down before it all that day but sée no enemy appear In the mean while the King's Son orders the Lord Firrapel and his Cousin Sly-look to imploy their Soldiers to march at some distance round about Malepardus that wheresoever they saw any Avenues or private holes they might stop them with heavy stones withal commanding to set out Scouts who should lie close in manner of Purdues the better to descry the outgoing of the Enemies All these things being done no Enemy was seen either to appear in the Castle or to come forth by those private Avenues which as fast as they could they stopped or by any other new made hole Therefore now nothing was thought on but a storm yet night being so near they judged it not seasonable to begin the Assault until morning in the mean while care was taken that the Holes and Avennes should be watched all night This was accordingly done CHAP. XXIV How the Fox's Castle was stormeâ— and all within it killed onely Reynard himself taken alive as the 〈…〉 commanded Early on the Morrow sâ—â—ling 〈…〉 being brought and all things 〈◊〉 for 〈…〉 Soldiers only waited for the word of 〈…〉 the â—ibbard Bold Adventures are hazardons therefore the wiles of an Enemy should always be suspected was commanded with its Soldiers to begin 〈◊〉 Assault But the Fox who all this while was 〈…〉 provided for their coming before-hand and round about the Castle-Walls on the inside had digged deep Trenches of a great depth which stood fall of â—â—â—ter by him drawn thither from a Spring which stood within his Castle Over this Trench upon the Walls he had made a fâ—lse Batilement seemingly strong on 〈◊〉 when four hundred of the Soldiers commanded by Sir Fâ—â—â—pel had goâ— up the Battlements breaking down they fall into the Trenches where moâ— of them drowned one another in striving to get out the residue were killed by
been so if Reynards policy had not been observed and put in practice by them Besides Isegrim for his own part carried himself so demurely and spake so seldom as even I my self was more thâ—n half perswaded he had changed his nature and with his new Gown put on another Nature directly contrary to that of his own But I now clearly see that a Wolf will be a Wolf what Coat soever he wears Therefore I am heartily glad his whole Lineage is at this time reduced to their pristine condition Nevertheless that I may not in time to come be upbraided by any The true Emblem of a Noble Prince of those ungrateful Beasts with the retaining their Treasure I will speedily order the distribution of the same among the Commons in general especially amongst those who have sustained damage by them The next day the King called all his Lords and Friends to Council where he declared his intentions of distributing the Treasure of the Wolves among the Commons and principally among such as had sustained loss or injury by them To this they all assented applauding the Kings Nobleness Then the King commanded the Lord Sly look and his Cousin Firrapel the Libbard to order the distribution thereof with as much equity as was possible Now while this was a doing the King again called his Lords and Friends about him and said Wâ—rthy Friends We unadvisedly and through false accusation condemnediour Chaplain Bellin and his Kindred therefore since our error is discovered and the Murther for which Bellin was condemned is acknowledged by Reynard that false Traytor to be perpetrated by himself it concerns us in some extraordinary manner to recompence the great wrongs that Family hath sustained for so long a time and all that through a misunderstanding of ours and through too great credulity of what we saw for though Bellin brought Kâ—yward the Hare's head to us yet the Fox â—lew the Hare and put it in his own Male and then tyed the Male about Bellins Neck through which notorious crime craftily vailed by that wretched Miscreant Reynard our judgment was deceived Bellin was put to Death his Lineage made a prey to the Bear and the Wolf and we and all our Family brought even to the brink of ruin These words were uttered by the king with so great earnestness as all his Lords and Friends were very much affected therewith therefore they said It is in your Majesties power to honour and respect them as much as you please we all will readily obey in whatsoever your Majesty shall command thereabout The king hearing them thus speak said Worthy Friends since you so readily have offred to follow our Advice and obey our Commands we accept the same kindly and therefore will now offer what we think most expedient in this case You all know we by our Proclamation have already taken them into our Protection yet you nor we our self cannot suppose that a sufficient recompence therefore since raise the Dead we cannot to the Living let us shew as much kindness as shall be convenient for when the Commons perceive that we not only protect but also respect Bellins Kindred they in imitation of us will do the like And that our respect and the good opinion we have of them may the more certainly be known to all our Subjects in general we will give command that they all behave themselves lovingly and fâ—iendly towards them so doing undonbtedly we shall unite all our meaner Subjects in love each to other and we our selves be so much the more happy This resolution of the Kings was immediately assented to and put in execution And from that day forward the Ram's Kindred walked up and down safely and found friends and friendly Entertainment in all places wheresoever they came The King himself and his Nobles observing the great Gravity of this Stock by him supposed to be utterly exstinâ— made Bellins Grandson his Counsellor all the other Nobles seeing this entertained one or more of the Ram's Kindred to be always residing in or near their own Lodgings This familiarity with Bellins Kindred wrought an alteration in the King and Lords for they heretofore were As evil Communication corrupts good Manners so on the other hand good Examples if followed produce the well-being of Mankind wont to fare deliciously and to feed on divers sorts of meats also upon slight occasions to be chalerick and angry they now seeing the great temperance and meekness of their new Sociates began to feed more sparingly and not of so many sorts at one time holding this course a while they found themselves not so prone to choler or anger as before The King observing this change not in himself only but in all his Friends and Nobles was willing to propagate it further therefore he by publick Proclamation commanded all his Subjects high and low to entertain familiarity with the Ram's Kindred also to take example by them and follow their Instructions in all things tending to sobriety and love This Proclamation was exactly obeyed by the Commons in general who ever after lived in such peace and love as the like hath searcely ever been heard of since the beginning of The height of all Happiness in this world consists in the Righteousness of King and People that Kingdom The King finding this change in all his Subjects universally was highly pleased and rewarded all his Friends nobly A POSTSCRIPT Friendly Reader IN the foregoing History I have not in any wise deviated from my first intention which was to frame a Second Part to the delightful History of Reynard the Fox which might yield thee both pleasure and profit If any one be offended let his offence be to himself my intent was not to give distaste but delight Nor have I in the foregoing History let slip any Expressions tending to the vitiating or debauching of Youth but have rather couched my words so as the intelligent may be profited and the disingenious not injured Therefore I desire this my Labour may be as well taken as meant If so I shall be encouraged to divulge a more serious piece not or Beasts but of Men so soon as time and opportunity will permit Farewell FINIS Books lately Printed for Edward Brewster at the Crane in St. Pauls Church-yard since the late dreadful fire 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Or the Sinner condemned of himself being a Plea for God against all the Uogodly proving them alone guilty of their own destiuction and that they shall be condemned in the great Day of Account not for that they lacked but only because they neglected the means of their Salvation And also shewing how fallacious and frivolous a Pretence it is in any to say They would do better if they could when indeed all men could and might do better if they would 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Or Scriptures Self-evidence To prove its Existence Authority in it Self and sufficiency in its kind to ascertain others That it is Inspit'd of God to be the Only Rule of Faith Published as a Plea for Protestants in the Desence of their Profession and intended only for the use and instruction of the Vulgar sort The Doctrine of the Bible The History of Reynard the Fox The History of Guy Earl of Warwick A useful Table of Expences Moses revived a Treatise proving That it is not lawful and therefore sinful for any Man or Woman to eat Blood viz. the Life-blood of any Creature c. Natural and Artificial Conclusions Mr. Ball 's Catechism with the Exposition Mr. Roger's Righteous Mans Evidence for Heaven 1â— Christian advice both to Young and Old rich and poor which may serve as a Directory at hand ready to direct all persons almost in every state and condition under 17 general useful heads By Tho. Mocket M. A. Basilius Valentinus last Will and Testament which was found hid under a Table of Marble behind the High Altar in the Cathedral Church of the Imperial City of Erford leaving it there to be found by him whom Gods providence should make worthy There is now in the Press two very useful Books The Apostolical History containing a narration of the Acts of the Apostles By Samuel â—radock B. D. fol. A Prospect of Divine Providence By Tho. Crane octva
the King hath sent to speak with you presently So away went the Wolf and Tibert the Cat to the Court. When they came there Reynard the Fox came forth and conducted his Uncle into the Kings presence and said here most noble Prince is your lately made chief Prelate is he not very trim and neat Yes Cousin Reynard said the King I like him passing well but had you not told me how he was dressed I should scarcely have known him sure his beard is shaved or else he seems younger than when we saw him last Mighty Sir said the Fox I advised him to trim himself thus judging it most convenient besides I have given him other particular Instructions which I hope he will observe Then the King turning to Sir Isegrim said assuredly Sir Isegrim you have found our Cousin Reynard to be your most faithful friend not only by advising you what to do but also by informing us how to assure and confirm that honour on you which we and our Lords have bestowed so freely on your self and on no other and that is by conferring a further title of honour that so your name so dreadful to the Commons may be laid aside and your other Title being unknown to them find acceptance and applause with them all The Wolf hearing this bowed so low as his mouth touched the ground then raising himself a little he began to speak in this manner Most puissant King how infinitely am I obliged to your Majesty and to the noble Lord Reynard here present and that in a time when I least of all expected any favour from your self and less from him whom I hated therefore I here before your Majesty beg his pardon of whose loyalty your Majesty hath undoubtedly had sufficient testimony otherwise your Princely wisdom could not have embraced one rendred so vile by me and other of your Subjects for which I here again humbly beg your Majesties pardon Sir Isegrim Sir Isegrim you are already pardoned said the King therefore rise up for Sir Isegrim had prostrated himself on the ground and hearken to what I shall further say I have not only pardoned you already but I do now also besides the honour of chief Prelate confer on you the Earldom of Pitwood which Wood you undoubtedly know for it lies near your Manston House that Wood I give to you your heirs and successors for ever and after the name of that Wood so shall you be called ever after and your old name Isegrim shall be no more mentioned but your title shall run thus Count of Pitwood Lord Paramount and for brevity sake you shall be called Lord Pitwood When the King had ended his speech Isegrim almost ready to leap out of his skin for joy knew not what to say but bowing himself with great reverence to the King and the Fox he in all humility acknowledged the Kings immense bounty toward him and the Foxes great love he would never forget besides he added that in the exercise of his Function he would study nothing so much as the Kings interest and that of his own profit he would be always least mindful with many other such like protestations yet in all these he lyed egregiously as you shall hear anon CHAP. IV. How the Bear and the Cat offended at the great Honours of Sir Isegrim conspired his death and how the Fox pacified them till the great Assembly of the Commons was over VVHen the rumour of the Wolf 's great Preferments was spread among the Nobles Sir Bruin the Bear and Sir Tibert the Cat hearing thereof stomacked the matter not a little And therefore reasoned among themselves thus How much is this Caitiff the greatest murtherer of all Beasts advanced to Honour above us if we suffer him to abide in this height we must necessarily be his Vassals besides how great soever our grievances be we can never find redress because the Fox his great friend is the Kings only Favourite so that every way we are like to suffer not only by himself but also by the Fox who is now so much his Intimate as he can crush us at pleasure and when we would complain the Fox perhaps will take our Petition but the King shall never see it Having thus reasoned they sate silent for some time until at length the Cat with a courage undaunted thus spake Noble Sir Bruin you are mighty and I am crafty it is not to be doubted but if you and I agree together we may acquit our selves of this burden Well said Cousin Tibert quoth the Bear if you can propose the way I will endeavour to follow your proposal Why Sir said the Cat the way I would have you take is this go unto Sir Isegrim and congratulate his happy advancement expressing as great joy and affection as is possible then invite him to your Castle to dinner and when he hath dinned for I know he will eat so long as until he is scarce able to stir invite him to walk telling him it is for his health out into the Forest where when you have him in a convenient place fall upon him and tare him to pieces Oh Sir Tibert said the Bear I am fraid to set upon him alone for he is devillish fierce and for all that I know may kill me Good Uncle said the Cat fear him not I will follow close after you and when you have got him down I will tare out his throat I 'le warrant you Well then said the Bear if you will be as good as your word follow me I will go to Sir Isegrim presently So they both hasted and got to the Wolfs house in a short space When they were thither Evil men once advanced are mortally hated of their friends because they also see no ho hopes of sharing with them in honor and profit but if once they see a probability of their own advancement they flatter and basely crouch to those whom they just before would have killed as appears by this Chapter come they found the Lord Reynard and Sir Isegrim together for they were discoursing about several weighty matters The Fox observing the countenance of these two Guests to be filled with hatred howsoever they covered the same with a dissembled cheerfulness began to speak to them in this manner Noble Friends had I not been engaged here with my Lord Pitwood for so his Majesty will have him called ever after I had ere this time sent for you to acquaint you with his Majesties royal intention concerning you both for so soon as this great Convention is over which now will be as you very well know the next day after to morrow our puissant King royally intends to honour you Sir Bruin with the Earldom of the Forests an honour which the greatest of Subjects must needs hold himself well contented with And for you Sir Tibert he intends to make you Steward of his house and if that like you not he purposeth to command the Earl of Pitwood here present
King I have never heard any complaint of thee since the time I first advanced thee therefore I repent me not of what I have done Then the Fox bowing himself said I humbly thank your Majesty for all your Favours bestowed on me as also for this great Bounty for my sake conferred on my Uncle of whom doubtless from this day forward you will never more hear complaint With this speech of Reynards the King was greatly satisfied and therefore said Cousin Reynard I believe no less than you have told me I am glad to see you affectionate and loving to your Uncle I doubt not but he will repay your Kindness with like love and affection and in the Execution of his office be always mindful of saving our Honour Yes said Reynard that will be his only aim 〈◊〉 he hath already promised to be always more mindful of your Majesties interest thâ—n of his own These and many more such speeches passed between the King and the Fox until it was somewhat late in the Evening then the King finishing his Discourz told all his Guests it was late he would detain them no longer So they departed only Reynard the Fox was ordred to come to Court early in the morning for the King told him he would speak with him alone about earnest Business CHAP. VII Of the Discourse the King had with Reynard the Fox touching the Advancement of Sir Bruin the Bear and Tibert the Cat. THe day no sooner appeared but Reynard hasted to the Court where his Majesty had expected his coming almost an hour before for he was troubled about his promise to Bruin and Tibert not yet performed lest they through discontent should be the Authors of Commotion Therefore so soon as Reynard came in he said it is well you are come Cousin I was even now and indeed last night thinking of my promise to Bruin and also to Tibert how remiss I have been in performing my word doubting whether by that omission they two being discontented as I suppose they are might not raise some Commotion and stir among our Friends and Subjects Hereupon the Fox now finding all things to succeed according to his own desire after obeysance made thus speaks Sure mighty Prince you have consulted with the Oracle otherwise you could not have conjectured so truly For Bruin the Bear and Tibert the Cat were highly offended with my Uncle two days before the Assemby of the Commons and came with full intent to his house to have done him some mischief but by good fortune I being present discerned their design by their looks and therefore presently told them of your Majesty's royal intent to promote and honour them the very next day after the Assembly of the Commons was over which for the present pacifted them very wolf but sineâ— the time appointed is past and gone without any effect answerable to what I promised how they now stand affected I cannot tell Well then said the King I understand by your words that it is high time to do somewhat in this business but I pray thee Cousin Reynard tell me which way I may best honour them with least damage to my self or injury to you The Fox hearing this after low Obeysance made said Dread Sovereign if my poor judgment may be received in this case I humbly request your Majesty to consider the nature and temper of them both and accordingly to honour them To this the King replied you speak well Cousin but since you best know their natures I leave it to you to propose which way they may beâ— be honoured The Fox hearing this bowed his head and departed full of joy and content but forgot not to send in Tibert to the King Now when Tibert came before the King the King said Sir Tibert our will is that you summon the Lords to be all here too morrow morning for I purpose to confer Honours on Sir Bruin and your self of which I would have them to be witnesses also for the Lord Reynard's good services I intend and fully resolve to make him chief Baily of all my Dominions therefore hast you and dispatch your Business CHAP. VIII How the Fox Bear and Cat were honoured by the King and how the Bear and Fox swore fealty THe Cat above measure joyed at this news runs first to Bruin the Bear and acquaints him with the whole story then he hastens to all the other Lords and last of all comes to Malepardus where Reynard's Castle stood into which he enters and not finding Reynard at home for he was gone forth to hunt he saluted Reynard'sWife and Children who were most of them of good stature in these words Reverend Madam and you noble Lords I am hither sent by the Kings Royal Majesty to summon my Lord Reynard to the Court early on the morrow Having said this away he runs to his own dwelling and there remained until morning Now the morrow being come and the Lords all present in the Court the King sitting down among them began his discourse thus My Lords and Friends We have done much toward the setling of our affairs in the choice and confirmation of the Lord Pitwood in his office of chief Prelate yet there seems something more of necessity to be done for Sir Bruin hath béen long our leige-man and although of so high descent as you all know we have none nearer us by birth except our own family in all our Dominionsâ— yet we have never unto this day conferred on him any singular specimen of honour Therefore our will and pleasure now is before you all to create him Earl of the Forests thereby to oblige him nearer to us and to intimate to all our Subjects in general that we will honour as many as either by birth or desert ought to be honoured Also our will is that Sir Tibert for his diligente in executing our commands be admitted by my Lord Pitwood here present as his chief Clerk We know he is able and capable of such an Imployment therefore my Lord directing his speech to the Wolf I pray accept of him as your Secretary by me recommended To this the Wolf replied your Majesty may command much more than this I do here in this noble presence accept of Sir Tibert as my chief Secretarâ— and none other Then the King further said We have great reason to honour those especially who if at any time seeing us remiss admonish us of our duty therefore I am now fully resolved to confer greater honour on our Cousin Reynard the Preserver of our Royal Crown and Dignityâ— Having said this he immediately before them all called to him the Lord Reynard and when he had kissed him gave him a staffe headed with Gold saying this is our badg of honour at all times to be born before you by your Cousin Grimbard or in case he be not well at any time then by your Cousin Beâ—clas the Ape so soon as he returns from Rome whence he is hourly expected and with this
Staffe we give you power over all our Subjects and therefore constitute you Lord chief Baily of all our Dominions After the King had spoke this the Fox bowing himself said Dread Soveraign I shall never be able sufficiently by words to express my thankfulness being wholly overcome by your Majesties immense Bounty but my Actions shall testifie my gratitude to all your Subjects Then the King nodding his head and smiling said nothing to him but called Sir Bruin and said Sir Bruin I create you Earl of the Forests and if hereafter I have so ample a testimony of your Loyalty as I at this time perswade my self I shall I will confirm the same honour on your Heirs and Successors for ever The Bear hearing this made obeysance and humâ—â—y thanked his Majesty To this the King said he had reason â—â—â—ewise to be thankful to his Cousin Reynard who had 〈◊〉 this great honour for him Then the Bear turned himself and gave the Fox great thanks also This being Oathes taken by wicked Persons are no longer binding to them than till they can see an opportunity of falcifying the same to promote their ambitious intents as by the following story is evident in the Fox and Bear now sworn before the King done the King said now there remains nothing but that you two swear Fealty to us our Heirs and Successors Then the Wolf whose office it was to swear them gave them the Book on which he bade each of them to lay his right hand and then say after him So the Fox and Bear after him repeated these words We swear to be true and faithful to our Soveraign Lord the King and directly or indirectly to practice nothing against his Royal Crown and Dignity c. Having said this he bad them kiss the Book so they did and then rose up for they took their Oath kneeling This being done the King dismissed all his Nobles and to the Fox particularly said Now my Lord Reynard see that you deal justly to all my Subjects in deciding their causes impartially for I am willing you should your self redress the Grievances of my meaner Subjects and what difference shall arise among you my Nobles and Friends of that I my self will have the Decision Then the Fox bowed himself and said All your Majesties commands shall be exactly obeyeâ— by me your most obliged Then Grimbard the Brock receiving the Staff of Reynard bore it before him and Pitwood the Wolf Bruin the Bear and all the other Nobles followed after and attended the Fox to his own Castle gates where they took their leaves of him and returned every one to his own home CHAP. IX How Pitwood the Wolf went to Malepardus to commune and advise with his Cousin Reynard about his own Affairs and what was the Result of that Discourse AFter this some-time being elapsed Pitwood the Wolf thought it necessary to go to his Cousin Reynard Therefore coming to Malepardus he knocked and one of Reynard's Sons roming to the gate opened it and bowed himself to the Lord Pitwood saying My Father is within if your Lordship would speak with him I will go in and call him I pray thee do said the Wolf for I come for that end So Reynards Son told his Father the Lord chief Prelate was come to speak with him He hearing this hasted to the Gate and there saluted his Uncle in these words Reverend Uncle I joy to see you I think it not expedient to invite your Lordship to come into my House therefore we going to younder hedg shall have a very convenient place to sit down and talk together for I know we shall there have more privacy then we can have within doors Honourable Cousin said the Wolf I am always obliged to you for your readiness to serve me but especially for your providence and forecast your self being so circumspect and wise as to be able to foresee conveniency or inconveniency as oft as need is By this time they were come to the Hedg where the Fox sitting down first invited his Uncle to set by him When he was sat the Fox began thus Uncle Pitwood I suppose by this time you perceive the profits of your office Yes Cousin said the Wolf I have indeed reaped no small benefit by my office the Perquisites are large and I have received great presents and those of so great variety as I never in all my life saw the like besides there quantity is so great as my own House will hardly contain them I am glad to hear it said the Fox but how fares it with all my Cousins your Children and Nephews do they also thrive in their offices Yes very well said the Lord Pitwood they tell me they have enough and I believe them for three or four of them have lately taken Surfeits with eating poor hearts O Uncle said the Fox that 's nothing perhaps their Stomachs were weak but they will be well enough in a little time Yes yes Cousin said the Wolf I doubt it not But good Cousin let me have your advice in some few things Suppose I have more than I can tell where to bestow what shall I do with the remainder shall I give it to the King This Chapter shews that Liberality is one main upholder of Greatness that without it Envy and Malice may so â—ar prevail as to be able to shake if not totally to ruin these that are in great honour and yet very câ—vetous Besides gifts blind the eyes and alter the understanding so as men are easily induced to approve of that now which they the day before did contemn as monstrous or build my House larger to receive all that comes and your advice shall I give to the King and so ingratiate my self further with him Not so said the Fox for the King seeing your great affluence of Riches will begin to cut short your other Revenues supposing you will in time grow too mighty for him That 's very considerable quoth the Wolf what then I perceive you allow of enlarging my house No said the Fox if you will take my advice I see no security in that but would rather perswade you to inrich your Friends How say you what Friends can I have in this high estate which every one envies To this the Fox answers Uncle did you ever know any one envied for giving It is not your high estate that causeth envy but the hatred of others against you is because they can reap no benefit by your greatness Therefore you cannot do better for your self nor better secure your own Grandeur than by pleasuring some few of the Nobles with a small part of your wealth now and then Well Cousin said the Wolf I will do so but you must advise me to whom for I know not what to do in such a case as this What to do said the Fox why know you not that the Earl of the Forests although mighty to sée to is but poor and though he as yet
carry fare to you and me yet if he partake not of part of our Wealth he may in time prove a bitter enemy Likewise Sir Firrapel the Libbard and Sly-look the Panther are esteemed great yet we well know that some small pittance from us will be so thankfully accepted by them as we shall ever after oblige them firmly to us And Uncle it is a very necessary point to be thought on for if we be diligent in obliging Friends so mighty what is it we may not do Yet you must be sure to be mindful of your own Servitors that they may not repine at your wealth especially look into your Secretaries profits if they be not large enough to content him you must add more till he holds himself well contented For he who would retain the greatness he at present hath must not forget to reward his Attendants so as they never utter one word in his discommendation Cousin said the Wolf I well understand you and purpose to put in practice what you have advised So for that time they parted and the Wolf distributed his Goods among the before-recited Nobles as freely and as liberally as ever Wolf did And the Fox according to the advice he had given himself did also largely reward those of whom he thought he stood in greatest need or in time to come might have occasion to use and in his bounty exceeded the Wolf by far CHAP. X. How the Fox behaved himself in his Office and of two Causes by him decided THe Fox who knew it was no less wisdom to keep what is gotten than to get the same notwithstanding his other affairs which now by reason of his Office were many waits and tends upon the King as formerly always making great Protestations of his Loyalty touching which the King doubted not at all the Fox had so craftily insinuated himself into his affections All being well on this side we now come to speak of his Decision of Causes and manifest differences among the meaner sort of Subjects And of these at this time we mention only two After this there happened a great difference betwéen certain Daws and Rooks. The occasion take as follows In an high Tower appertâ—ining to a Country-Town where men formerly had dwelt a company of Dawes took up their habitations and had dwelt there so long as until they became very numerous Right against this Tower wère planted Elmes which in length of time were grown up to a very great height in the upper part of which at first a few and afterwards many Rocks butâ—t Nâ—sts â—nd setled their These two kinds kinds being so near Nâ—ighbouâ—s at length grew into acquaintance and familiarity one with another the Rooks pretending great kindness to the Dâ—wes were by them admitted into their Houses and sometimes feasted the Rooks likewise invited thâ— Daws to them feasting them after the same manner This reciprocal entertainment continued a long time until a scarce and hard Season came Then the Rooks watching their opportunity when the old Dawes were gone forth for it was Spring-time and they had young ones being greatly pressed with hunger agreed all together to rob the Dawes and fearing the noise of the young Dawes would bewray their intentions it was resolved among them first to kill all they found in every house With this resolution they all at once flew out and one or two of them went into every house and slew all the young ones some of which in carrying out they let fall by reason of their haste but as many as they could hold they carryed into their own Nests and returned immediately and took away all the Provisions they could find which was not much by reason of the scarcity of the time and carryed that home also Then with speed some of them flew out to purvey as at other times but by reason of their own hunger mâ—de haste home By this time were the old Dawes also returned with provision for their Young whom they never more saw alive Therefore smelling the deceit some of the boldest of them flew over to their Neighbours and coming unawares upon theâ— could easily see the torn limbs of their children Others of them flying again downwards espied under the Tower-walls several of their younglings lying dead At this they were all so much enraged as had not some of the wisest among them dissâ—aded them from it they would have suddenly in an hostile manner assailed their Enemies Therefore they took up this resolution namely that they would complain of their Grievances to the King of Beasts But after it was told them that the King himself would not meddle in their matters because he had deputed his Cousin Reynard they all fly to him and lighting on a Trée nighth the place of Iudicature they called aloud Iustice Noble Lord Reynard Reynard being informed of this Cry immediately came forth and sitting down said What is the matter They said my Lord avenge our cause of those persidious Rooks who have slain our Children and robbed us of all our substance To this the Fox replied how shall I know your complaint is just unless I also hear those that be accused At this they all flew away home and being there called to their Neighbours the Rooks telling them they must appear before the Lord Reynard To this the Rooks answered that was no lawful Summons nevertheless they would not stick to appear being sufficiently able to clear themselves So some of the oldest of the Rooks flew first to the Court of Iudicature the Daws seeing that made haste after them When both had lighted on Trees as near the Foxes seat as they could the Dawes as before exhibit their complaint To this the Rooks answer My Lord these Dawes here present belye us shrewdly for we as well as they were gone forth to purvey for Necessaries but their young ones intheir absence crawled out and fell down and so died some of which are to be seen at this present broken to pieces against the Stones and this is the cause why these Varlets accuse us who are as innocent as your Lordship To this the Fox answered it is strange that all the young ones in every house should at one time be alike disposed to crawl out I suspect the truth of this matter and cannot acquit you unless you can by substantial Witnesses evidence the truth of your Assertion Then the oldest of the Rooks said My Lord we are able to produce Witnesses enough some of which saw this downfall of the young Dawes Go to then said the Fox produce them Then hasted one or two of the Rooks and in a short time produced all the rest of their It is dangerous for guilty persons to come within the Judg his power fellows who had an hand in the former Massacre of the Dawes When these Witnesses were come the Fox commanded them down to be sworn Therefore down they came though unwillingly and after they were sworn and ready to give evidence he would
not hear them before the other Rooks who were accused were also come down off the Trèes and brought to the Bar. Now said he to the Witnesses let us hear what you can say We my Lord said one of them were eye-witnesses of what hapned to the young Dawes for they came all to the doors of their houses and there looked one upon another until at length striving as it seems to fly before they were able they all tumbled down headlong Now indeed we seeing they were fallen and dead took up every-one of us one of them and carried them home because we knew they were dead When these our Kinsfolks who are now arraigned came home we told them the whole story they allowed of what we had done because that was free booty yet to avoid the ill-will of our Neighbours they would not suffer us to fetch up any more of their dead bodies Now it is true that some of the Dawes flying over to us did see many of us the Witnesses eating of the dead bodies of their Children and therefore without one word speaking they falsly affirmed to your Lordship that we had slain their children and robbed them So then said the Fox you deny you have robbed them yet confess you eat the dead Younglings Now where are stoln goods to be found but in the possession of the Thief Therefore by your own evidence you have condemned your selves and I can do no less in equity than to condemn you all to be strangled as a just recompence for your heinous Massacre When he had said this the Fox's Attendants strangled every one of them in a moments time but their dead bodies were delivered Crafty men willingly forgo and readily give away what is not their own nor ever like to be in their possession as here is evident by the Fox who gives the Dawes the Rookes Nests because he knew not how to come at them by Tâ—le into the Lord Reynard's Kitchin The Dâ—wes seeing what was done rejoiced greatly and bowing themselves to the Fox said Honoured Sir we are infinitely bound to your Lordship for that you have so justly avenged our cause on the Murtherers of our Children The Fox answered I could do no less sor I plainly perceived they were guilty both of Murther and Theft therefore I give you all the Houses and Goods remaining of these Miscreants although indeed my own Pexquisites that you may ever after liveâ—secure from such treacherous Neighbours Now when the Dawes had humbly thanked the Fox they took their leaves and departed and from that day forward would never after have any Fellowship with Rooks. CHAP. XI How the Fox liberally bestowed what he got among the Nobles and of the Communication that was held by them at a general Meeting THe Fox in this manner handling all matters so as When aspiring Subjects abound in Wealth the Kings royal person and power is lyable to great danger which way soever the scale turned profit should redound to him partly by Brides taken privily on both sides and partly by the Forfeitures of the condemned had got together an infinite mass of Wealth Then knowing his own great Riches he aspired to advance his estate yet higher yea even above his Master that had honoured him so highly and had given him power sufficient to endanger his own Crown and Dignity Therefore to proceed surely as he thought to his before-imagined Grandeur he shews himself much more liberal than formerly enrighing all the Nobles and their Followers and Retinue among which he most of all gratified Sir Tibert the Cat giving to him very largely By this liberal giving he was the only eminent person in the land as they who were so greatly benefited by him judged that was endued with Wisdom Policy and great Riches To Pitwood the Wolf though he had wealth enough of his own he also forgat not to send several Presents not once or twice but oftner He holding this course with the Nobles was not in the mean while unmindful of waiting often on the King and with smooth words and a lying pretâ—nce of honesty to â—ull him asleep even to a Lethargy of security for the King being old and hearing no complaints was well pleased that he had constituted a Substitute who was able and willing to free and discharge him of all trouble Thus the Fox concealing his intent seemingly behaded himself most uprightly and indeed he was so circumspect as he would never divulge his mind until he saw a manifest occasion offer it self very plainly Some time being passed the Nobles were all met together at the Lord Pitwood's house to which Meeting the Fox came not but attended on the King whether necessitated thereunto or purposely is not well known At this meeting the Fox's great worth was highly magnified and Pitwood himself extolled him to the skies adding withal that he was fit to rule a Kingdom These words being minded by those who judged all he said to be true spurred them on to speak disloyally of their Soveraign Therefore Bâ—uin the Bear broke his mind Also the Princes security is the disloyal Subjects advantage and whensoever any man in power is magnified by other potent men above his Master and the King his Master evil spoken of actual Treason is ready to be produced as this Chapter clearly shews thus He is indeed a most worthy person and is more mindful to recompence and pleasure his Friends than the King himself for what gives he to any of us If we bring him Presents he for the present only thanks us and afterward never more thinks of us or our Present but the Lord Reynard expects no gifts from us and yet is never weary of conferring Benefits on us To this Bittelas the Ape assented for he was newly come from Rome and said My Nephew the Lord Reynard is not only wise but courteous affable and exceeding mindful of Benefits yea and where he neither hath nor can expect to have reaped any commodity there also his benevolence is largely extended It is true indeed said Firrapel the Libbard and his near Kinsman Sly-look the Panther owned as much At length one among them said if a vacancy should happen shall we not do well to elect Reynard for our lawful King Yes said another we may do well in so doing but it is not time to talk of such matters as yet No no said Pitwood the Wlof we shall endanger our Heads by such a discourse as this if it should happen to come to the Kings ear Besides for us to imagine such a thing before we consult with the Lord Reynard thereabout to know whether he will accept of our good endeavours and stand by us in it and assist us with his wealth and friends I judg it a very great imprudence if not a rash and hazardous folly To these words of his they all assented and for that time spâ—ke no more thereabout CHAP. XII How Bitelas the Ape informed Reynard of all that passed
After this the bowing himself began to speak thus Worthy Friends it is well known unto us all that we have need of the Commons for as no man can work without hands so we can never accomplish what we intend without the assistance of many more than we out selves are Also for procuring their assistance we must not publickly invite or solicite any or otherwise hire and list as is usual in such Cases Therefore there is but one way left us and that is best and will be most secure The way is this Let every one of us here present by promise and reward oblige as many of the Commons as we can telling them we require their assistance in a private quarrel and therefore would have them be ready but secretly in Arms till we do call for them This way will both conceal our design and our selves until we Here it appearâ— that Flattery and Dissimulation are necessary concomitants of Treason for had not the Fox waited on the King as formerly his absence had given cause of suspition think good to disclose our selves and it The Nobles hearing the Foxes proposal approved thereof and highly praising his Wisdom said They would put in practise what he had so prudently advised to Then he again stood up and said Worthy Friends if you think good to put in practice our advice we also judg it expedient that all speed possible be used because delay may produce danger and indeed such designs as this should be as soon executed as thought on Therefore I request you and as Confederates adjure you to use all diligence this evening and all day too morrow to oblige as many as you can and then to meet here to morrow-night that we may determine what to do and appoint the hour in which we will set about the business and dispatch it Having said this the Meeting broke up and the Lords went forth one by one as privily as they could CHAP. XIV Of their last meeting and how they determined to surprise the Also Misereants before they attempt dangerous Designes forecast how in secure themselves if it happen their intentions befrustrated as here is evident by the â—ox his â—ortilying and furnishing his Castle to abide a siege if need should be King and Court the next night following THe next day the Fex went to Court and tarried with the King until Dinner-time then with great submission and seeming Loyalty he took his leave of him who doubting nothing dismissed the Fox with great chearfulness When Reynard came home he was not idle but stayed at home all that day not only to view the Fortifications of his Castle for he under pretence of repairing it had already fortified it strongly which he liked well but also to examine his stores of Provision observing what was deficient and supplying the same that day that if need were he might abide a Siege to the confusion of his Enemies as he still stedfastly hoped Therefore such Soldiers as he levied privily he kept there with a plentiful allowance of all that was needful CHAP. XV. How Sir Firrapel the Libbard and his Cousin Sly-look revealed the whole Treason to the King c. ON the morrow when Sir Firrapel and his Cousin met they both looked less theerful then they were wont and therefore asked each other the cause of his sadness The Libbard first spake thus Cousin I am troubled with the thoughts of what we are going about for I consider we have no reason to be Traytors Relenting thoughts in Conspirators prove dangerous to grand Projectors to our Soveraign because he never in the least degraded or injured us but always admitted us as Friends and Companions and indeed he is a Prince deserving the love and not the hatred of all his Subjects much more of his Lords and in an especial manner of the Lord Reynard and his Uncle Isegrim since called Pitwood But now engaged as we are we are in such a streight as what to do I cannot tell Then the Panther said Truly Cousin I know not what to think I have been so perplexed all this night with the consideration of my Disloyalty as I am now even at my Wits end If we bewray the Plot to the King he is so well conceited of the Lord Reynard as he will not believe us and so we are in danger of death for falsly accusing him who is the falsest of all living and will not stick to ruin all us so he may but escape himself Besides his language is so smooth and he is so crafty and subtile as it will be impossible to prove a tittle of all we can say against him No no said the Libbard if we having declared all to the King request him to detain us in his Court but for one day until our Loyalty be proved or disproved and in the mean while not be known we have bewrayed the Plot we when the time appointed is come may look over the Battlements and call to Sir Tibert who will be sure to lie very near that he may give intelligence telling him the King and his Sons are dead the Lord Reynard may now come in securely then we shall quickly sée our selves out of danger and the Authors of our trouble brought to condign punishment Cousin said the Panther I like your counsel well but if we be detained in Court all day and come not with our Soldiers in the Evening to the place of Rendezvouz Reynard will presently smell the matter and let fall his present design but immediately run to Court and accuse us 'T is true indéed said the Libbard we are in a bad case if we reveal the Treason and it is very hazardous if we reveal it not and any other do our danger will be the greater Therefore since we are so straitned it is better for us of these two Evils to chuse the least and speedily to reveal the Treason let the event be what it will To this the Panther consented and so they went together to Court When they were come before the King and This Chapter shews that some men are easily wrought upon to consent to Treason yet will very un willingly put the same in practice but rather to save themselves reveal the whole Conspiracy as here the Libbard and Panther did had vowed themselves they thought to have spoke but neither of them could for shame and grief The King noting their dejected Countenances said Friends why are you so sad O Sir said the Libbard the consideration of your Majesties clemency and our own unworthiness is the cause of our present grief Why said the King speak you thus Because Sir said the Panther we have been so unworthy and indeed so false to your Majesty as to know of a Treason intended against your Royal Person Crown and Dignity for at least four days and not to reveal it and that which most of all perplexeth us is that we gave our consents and promised to aid and assist
the Hands and Heads of Reynard and Isegrim fixed upon Poles as is said The King and his Nobles being come home sat down together in the Court all of them pondering much the words of Reynard touching Belâ—ins death At length the King as one greatly perplexed said My Lords Friâ—nds it grieves me not a little that our Chapl. Bellin was long since so basely put to death and his Family ruined so as I question whether any of that Stock be now remaining in the World To Although in nocent persons may long remain injured yet in process of time the cause of their oppression comes to be known and then the â—â—dreâ—â— is nigh at hand this one of the Kings Friends who was present when Isegrim was chose chief Prelate said Soveraign Lord think not so for I am certain that many of them were living when Isegrim was made Prelate because I there saw several of them but would not be known I saw them for fear of your Majesties displeasure against them Sure said the King it is not possible I suppose your eye deceived you however if it were so then it is too probable that they are all dead since because the Sons and KIndred of Isegrim although very numerous had all of them Furr-Gowns like Bellin's which Isegrim himself wore not long after they were confirmed in the Priestly Function for many more of Isegrim's Kindred came into him after the choice of the Commons than were that day present upon the Scaffold with us and yet all these had such Fur-Gowns which they could never have had if so many of Bellin's Kindred had not been first slain and stript c. To this the same Lord replied Noble Sir I am most certain that in secret places of your Majesties Realm there are thousands of them yet living It is well if it be so said the King After this Discourse was ended the King again said Worthy Friends I too well know that we have confirmed the Priestly Office not on Isegrim only but on his whole Lineage and Kindred who are all revenous Beasts void of all goodness nay I think the worst of all Creatures living although the Fox by his subtilty blinded my eyes and Isegrims pretended demure carriage alienated my Iudgment For had honest Bellin yet lived treacherous Reynard could never have thought of working our ruin nor ever could that cursed Miscreant Isegrim have contributed any assistance to his disloyal intentions The young Prince seeing his Father speak with so great earnestness said Royal Father why is your Majesty troubled at the Advancement of Isegrims Lineage let it be signified by Proclamation that in their Father's Crime they have all forfeited their Offices and besides that upon good and sure grounds your Majesty well knows that they are the Destroyers of your Subjects and continually in their masked Habits and under a pretence of Sanctity they rob and pill them so bare as of necessity your Kingdom must be ruined if they be permitted to live in all excess and riot for of all the Beasts under your Majesties Authority there are none so debauched and vicious as they This Spéech of the Prince was seconded by several others of the Kings Friends all inveighing bitterly against Isegrim's Lineage The King hearing this said Sirs what think you is best to be done If we lay aside this Generation I mean displace them of their Offices and yet let them hold their Wealth they may in time by their Riches work us great wrong To this that Friend of the Kings Prudent advice to avoid Vulgar censure who first spake said Noble Sir to lay aside this impious stock is honourable but to take away their Wealth will have no good aspect in the eyes of the Vulgar whose censure is seldom right because they will impute their displacing to arise from no other cause then that they were rich or to speak more plainly because your Majesty was disposed to Many men willingly are blinded and by cunning Sycophants oppâ—essed because they judâ— of things aâ—â—eâ—appâ—a and not â—â— they reaâ—y are in themselves seize on all they had Therefore if your Majesty please to displace the Wolves there needs no care to be taken of the Wealth they have for if other of your Subjects whose eyes are open do but once find that they are out of your Majesty's favour which way the wealth of these Miscreants must néeds go any one without the help of Astrology may easily conjecture because whensoever they are displaced and out of favour there will be so many Complaints made of their Extortions as undoubtedly all they have will be too little to make recompence for the wrong they have done Besides if none of all this be they are such monstrous Gluttons as will be necessitated to eat up all in a short time You say well said the King I heartily believe if all those Wolves were but stript of this their disguise and compelled to put off their Furr-Gowns the Blind then would as clearly see as the Maâ—ks and Disguises constrain mâ—st men to judg amiâ—s other clear sighted Beasts you speak of It is true noble King said the same Lord pull but off the Mask there needâ— no more Well then said the King that I will not fail to do spéedily CHAP. XXIX How the King made Proclamation that no Beasts should walk disguised in other Garments than what were naturally theirs and what ensued thereupon THe next day early the King caused a Proclamation to be drawn the tenour whereof ran thus Leo Rex Whereas several of our Subjects wear Disguises and since under such Masks and false Habits many Mischiefs have been committed and some of those Persons allowed to wear such like Disguises have proved Traytors to our Royal Crown and Dignity We therefore will and command all our Subjects in general whether high or low of what state or condition so ever that after ten days next ensuing the Publication hereof they presume not to wear any Disguise whatsoever nor at any time day or night to walk clothed in other Garments than what are naturally their own upon pain of being proceeded against as Traytors to our Royal Crown and Dignity c. Having said this he dismissed the Lords who were sat in Counsel with him So the Wolves departed sad enough CHAP. XXX How the King desirous to see some of Bellins Kindred caused three of the oldest of them to be sent for c. AFter the Wealth of the Wolves was thus taken and the Kings jealousie thereabout allayed he became very pleasant and merry and in that merry mood said My When the cause of jealousie is removed cheerfulness necessarily follows Friends I should be glad to see some of the Rams Kindred therefore if any of you know them our pleasure is that he go to them and bring two or three of the oldest among them before us Then the Lord who had before told the King there were thousands of them living in