FABLES. 



359 



THE COCK AND THE FOX. 



A Eox, in one of his early visits to the farm- 

 yard, happened to be caught in a springe, which 

 had been set for that very purpose; and while he 

 was struggling to escape, he was observed by the 

 Cock, who, with his Hens, was feeding near the 

 place. The Cock, dreading so dangerous a foe, 

 approached him with the utmost caution. Rey- 

 nard no sooner cast his eye upon him, than with 

 all the smooth and designing artifice imaginable, 

 thus addressed him. My dear friend, says he, 

 you see what an unfortunate accident has befallen 

 me here, and all upon your account, for not having 

 heard you crow for a long time past, I was re- 

 solved on my way homeward to pay you a friendly 

 visit; I therefore beg you will bring me something 

 to cut this tormenting wire, or at least be so good 

 as to conceal my misfortune till I have knawed 



