Fab. LVIII. The Fox and Raven.
A Raven who had found a piece of Cheese,
Bore it to's Nest, on one o'th' neighbouring Trees.
And having laid it down, began to Crow
Aloud, that all might his good Fortune know.
A Fox, who heard the noise, and understood
The meaning of it, quickly leaves the Wood,
Draws near unto the Tree, and thus did speak,
Just as the Raven took the Cheese in's Beak.
Good Gods! what beauteous Bird's before mine Eyes?
How smooth they lie! how do thy Feathers shine!
No Colour equals Black, and no Black thine.
Would I might hear thy Voice, if thou couldst Sing,
Thou wert a Present for the greatest King.
The Raven tickled with the Foxes praise,
And willing to hear more, began to Sing,
With a hoarse voice, and let the Cheese fall down.
Which when the Fox had seizd, Raven, said he,
'Tis true thou'rt handsome, but thou hast no Wit.
The Moral.
All Flattery is upon ill design,
And they are Fools who hear it with delight.
To the same purpose out of J. C. That is
Were the Crow wise, and could with silence eat,
He would have fewer Spongers, and more Meat.
Another out of J. C. That is
As often as the Sheep bleats, he loses a mouthful.
Another out of the same. That is
'Tis the still Sow that eats the Broth.
