Mythologia ethica, or, Three centuries of Æsopian fables in English prose done from Æsop, Phædrus, Camerarius, and all other eminent authors on this subject : illustrated with moral, philosophical, and political precepts : also with aphorisms and proverbs in several languages, and adorned with many curious sculptures cut on copper plates / by Philip Ayres, Esq.

FAB. XV. The Hunter and the Lion.

IN a Forrest, a Hunter who had great dexte∣rity in throwing Darts, was searching about for Game; of which the Wild Beasts had no soon∣er notice, but they were all preparing to save themselves by flight, except a valiant Lion, who alone resolved to encounter this bold Adventu∣rer. The Man seeing him approach, at some distance, aimed a Dart at him, and threw it so exactly, that it pierced into the Lions Body, and at that instant calling to him, This, said he, is my first Messenger, whose Errand if you enter∣tain not as you ought, I'll send more of them, till I come my self. The Wounded Lion feeling the Anguish, fled, and overtaking the other Beasts, I shall venture him no more, said he, for if the Messengers he send be so irresistable, how, when he himself come, shall I be able to withstand him?

There is no provoking him who is able to hurt at a distance.