He found it very hard, and wailed his awful plight.
The other beasts remarked: “We each have had our turn;
And none of us refused th’ agreement to confirm.
By breach of faith on us fresh infamy bring not.
Begone forthwith; the lion must not be forgot.”105
The hare replied: “Dear friends, a respite to me grant.
A stratagem I’ll plan, and cheat this grim tyrant.
My wily plan shall save the souls of all alive;
And safety heirloom be your children shall derive.
Thus every prophet’s promised to his sect, at least,