FAB. IV. The Parrot and the Cat.

A Man that had bought a Parrot, brought it home, and put it into a Cage; where, ac∣cording to its Custome, it began to talk and sing pleasantly. Which the Cat observing, asked, What art thou? and whence camest thou? I am a Bird, answered the Parrot, my Master bought to day, and just now brought me in hither. O thou Bold Creature! said the Cat, that being but newly come within these Doors, hast the Impu∣dence to make so loud a noise: When I, that have been born and bred within this House, beginning but to call on this manner, My Master and Mi∣stress are so far from suffering me to go on, that they set the whole Family about my Ears, to the very Hazard of my Life, whilst thou thus confi∣dently makest a bauling, and fearest no Contra∣diction. By your favour, Mistress Puss, replyed the Parrot, my voice is not so ungrateful to my Masters Ears, as yours.

Against Foolish Men, making improper Compari∣sons.