A Lion falling sick, all the beasts went to see him except the Fox, upon which the Lion sent for him, telling him he wanted to see him, and his presence would be acceptable. Moreover he desired the messenger to assure the Fox that for several reasons he had no occasion to be afraid of him, since the Lion loved the Fox very well, and therefore desired to see him; besides he lay so sick, he could not stir to do the Fox any harm. The Fox returned an obliging answer, desiring the messenger to acquaint the Lion, he was very desirous of his recovery, and he would pray to the Gods for it; but desired to be excused for his not coming to see him as the other beasts had done; for truly, says he, the traces of their feet frighten me, all of them going towards the palace but none coming back.
Fable 2.
The Stag and the Vine.
A Stag, who was hard pursued, ran into a Vineyard, and took shelter under a Vine; when he thought his enemies were gone, and the danger over, he fell to, browsing on the leaves; the rustling of the boughs gave a suspicion to the huntsmen, and on search he was discovered and Shot, and as he was dying he said, How justly am I punished for offering to destroy my shade.
Fable 3.
The Crane and Geese.
As some Geese and Cranes were feeding in a Countrymans Corn field, he heard their noise, and came presently out upon them. The Cranes seeing the man fled for it, but the Geese staid and were caught.
Fable 4.
A Trumpeter taken Prisoner.
