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FABLE IV. The Ass and Calf:

Or, A Useful Life, secure.

An Ass and Calf in one Enclosure fed,
They meant no Mischief, nor did Mischief dread;
'Till an Alarm-Bell rang, which let them know
The Watch discover'd an approaching Foe.
The frighted Calf cry'd, Neighbour, let us run,
For, if we stay, we shall be both undone.
The Ass reply'd; You, if you please, may flie,
Who are good Meat, and may expect to die:
I fear no change of Fortune; come who will,
My Work will be to carry Burdens still.

The MORAL.

‘Subjects ill us'd, no change of Princes fear;
‘The worst that comes, can only be severe:
‘And rarely Slaves the Axe or Halter dread,
‘Who toil while living, but are free when dead.