FABLES. 



181 



THE OLD HOUND. 



Ax Old Hound, who had excelled in his time, 

 and given his master great satisfaction in many a 

 chase, at last, through age, became feeble and 

 unserviceable. However, being in the field one 

 day, when the Stag was almost run down, he 

 happened to be the first that came in with him, and 

 seized him by the haunch; but his decayed and 

 broken teeth not being able to keep their hold, the 

 Deer escaped; upon which, his Master fell into a 

 great passion, and began to whip him severely. 

 The honest old creature is said to have barked out 

 this apology: Ah! do not thus strike your poor old 

 servant: it is not my heart and inclination, but my 

 strength and speed, that fail me. If what I now 

 am displease you, pray do not forget what I have 

 been! 



