They talked of literature at the party, but the political situation was uppermost in the minds of all.
A gentleman was present whose literary mind made him very interesting to such circles.
"The art of the illustration of the principles of life in fable," he said, "is exhausted. Æsop, La Fontaine, Gay, and others have left nothing further to be produced in parable teaching."
The view was entertaining. He added:
"There is not left a bird, animal, or fish that could be made the subject of any original fable."
Dr. Franklin seemed to be very thoughtful for a time.
"What is your opinion, doctor?" asked the literary gentleman.
"You are wrong, sir. The opportunity to produce fables is limitless. Almost every event offers the fabric of a fable."
"Could you write a fable on any of the events of the present time?" asked the lord curiously.
"If you will order pen and ink and paper, I will give you a picture of the times in fable. A fable comes to me now."