FAB. XXXVI. The Wasps, the Patridges, and the Husband-man.

CErtain swarms of Wasps met with some Co∣veys of Patridges, who being all very thirsty, went together to a Country-man to beg of him VVater to drink, promising to make him a large requital of the Favour. The Patridges would oblige themselves to dig his Vineyard so well, that his Vines should yield next year an ex∣traordinary plenty of Grapes: And the Wasps with large protestations engaged to defend his Vineyard from Thieves; by their continual round∣ing it. I thank you Friends, said the Country-man, for your kind offer, but I have a pair of Oxen, which though they promise me nothing, yet perform all this work for me: 'Tis therefore more fit I should with water gratifie them, than you.

We are not obliged to maintain and encourage those who are Idle and Unprofitable, whose only aim is to live by their boasting pretences, but are known to perform very little.