To gain time for expedients is the first point. Expedients are good for great and little matters equally, like
'The subtle wash of waves, that smoothly pass,
But lay the tree as lowly as the grass.'
Let his Excellency the Parrot, then, be cajoled and detained here, while we place our fort in condition to be useful. Is it not said—
'Ten true bowmen on a rampart fifty's onset may sustain;
Fortalices keep a country more than armies in the plain?'
And your Majesty,' continued the Goose, 'will recall the points of a good fortress—
'Build it strong, and build it spacious, with an entry and retreat;
Store it well with wood and water, fill its garners full with wheat.'
'Whom, then, shall we entrust with this work?' asked King Silver-sides.
'The Paddy-bird[[18]] is a good bird, and a skilful,' replied his Minister.
'Let him be summoned!' said the King. And upon the entrance of the Paddy-bird, the superintendence of the fortress was committed to him, and accepted with a low prostration.
'As to the fort, Sire!' remarked the Paddy-bird, 'it exists already in yonder large pool; the thing is to store the island in the middle of it with provisions—