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How Reynard, sending his Sons away with h•…•… Riches, to hide them, was himself taken an•• executed for his Treasons. How the Rich•…•… were lost, Rossel slain, with the Combat•• between the Bear, Panther and Tyger, abo•…•… the Spoil, &c.
REynard the Fox, notwithstanding th•• late Honours conferred of him b••
the King, having private Intelligence, by means of the Brock, that the Cheats and Fallacies he had put upon the Royal Lion were discovered, he proclaimed a Traytor, and great Preparations made to apprehend him; doubting his Safety in the Castle of Malepardus, and being grown aged, and un••it for Travel, called to him Reynardine and Rossel, his two Sons, to whom he com∣municated the State of his Assairs, bidding them take Laprel the Coney with them, for a Guide, and carry his Treasure with them into the Forest of Longwood, and there hide it in the Cave Laprel would shew them, and remain there to expect the Event of his Fortune; and to prevent a Discovery, they should kill the Coney as soon as the Treasure was safely stowed: So delivering to them his Riches, and sending some Servants with them to carry it to the Confines of the Fo∣rest; the Sun was no sooner set, but they departed with Tears, which presaged they should never see each other more.
Reynard's two Sons had no sooner left him, but his Castle was besieged by the command of the Lion, and all his starting∣holes so•…•…owly guarded, that attempting to make 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Escape, he was caught by Sir Bruin the Bear, his mortal Enemy, and
dragged to the Court, where the Lion gi∣ving free License to all that would, to bring their Accusations against him, such great Numbers, whom he had injuried ap∣peared, and their Complaints were so grievous, and apparently proved, that the Savage King, without giving him leave to make his Defence, as he had formerly done, least his Flatteries should again make him relent to pardon him, ordered him imme∣diately to be hanged; appointing the Wolf his Executioner. And thus ended Reynard the Fox after all his Cunning and Polices, his Days by an untimely Death; which shews, however Men may flatter themselve, there is no State, how great so ever, or cunningly supported, certain upon Earth.
Now whilst these things passed, Reynards Sons had sent away the Servants, and lodg∣ed their Treasure only with the help of La∣prel the Coney, that no more knowing where they had reposed it, it might, as they conceived, be the more assuredly safe; the which, when they had done, the Co∣ney for his Service demanded his Reward; but instead of a Recompence, met with Death, for, surprizingly picking a Quarrel with him, on the account of his mistrusting their Bounty, they fell upon him, slew him
and threw his dead Body out of the Cave, thinking themselves now secure, though it soon proved otherwise; for having Notice of their Father's Death, and that they were Proscribed and Banished on Pain of Death never to return to their own Country, •…•…∣ing least some of the Servants, who had brought the Treasure to the Confines of the Forest, might give notice of it, they re∣solved to remove it to another Forest, and there to divide it into two Parcels, and live retire, till they could dispose of it to their greater Advantages, in buying ho∣nourable Places, or in purchasing their Peace and Freedom of returning home: But as they were doing this, Corbant the Rook, whose Wife, Dame Sharpbeak, Reynard their Father had slain, allured by the Scent of the dead Coney, came slying thither, and know∣ing who they were, secretly watched, un∣seen to them whither they carried the Treasure; and then, taking Wing, flew up and down the neighbouring Forests till he found out Bruin the Bear, Truculem the Ty∣ger, and Versute the Panther, preparing ear∣ly in the Morning to go a Hunting; to these, with much Joy, he revealed what he had seen, promissng them, for a tenth Part of the Riches, to shew them the place
where it was lodged.
To this they easily and joyful consented, desiring instantly to be conducted thither; Corbant delayed not to do it, and by that time they arrived there, the Sun was setting, when having pointed to the places, by fly∣ing with his Beak against them, the Bear immediately entered Reynardine's Cave, which he perceiving, and finding not only his Riches, but that also his Life would become a Prey to that mortal and impla∣cable Enemy of his Family, if he was ta∣ken by him, he immediarel bolted through a Retreating-hole, and fled with all speed possible for his safety.
The Bear having seized and brought forth the Treasure, he proceeded to Rossel's Cave; who upon the Bear's entering, be∣ing of a fiery Temper, and much less cun∣ning than his Brother, resolved to defend his Treasure, or lose his Life; so flying at Sir Bruin with his sharp Teeth, he caught him fast by the Nose, and bit him so griev∣ously, that he roared out terribly; whereat the Tyger came rushing in, and immediate∣ly slew poor Rossel, throwing his dead Bo∣dy out of the Cave, and removing all the Treasure to a distant Forest, where they fell to sharing it by Lots, till a rich Crown, exceeding bright, set with Jewels, appear∣ing
amongst the Spoils, every one covering to have it, and not agreeing, the Content grew so hot, that a bloody Combate en∣sued, with wild Uproar and Noise, so that Noble, the Lion Prince, Son to the King, being abroad with his Guard taking the Air in the Forest, hearing it, made thither, and soon, by his Presence and Commands, parted the Fray; then being inform'd of the Cause of their Difference, he told them, he would end the Cause of their Strife; and so taking up the Crown, set it on his own Head; none daring to contradict it; tho' they flattered him, in hopes to have it a∣gain, with the present of a large Gold Chain, but it proved ineffectual for he car∣ried the Crown to the Court, and there presented it to his Royal Father, as will more fully hereafter appear.
Moral.] By Reynard's being taken at last and executed, it appears, that tho' evil Men may escape for a time, Mischief will certain∣ly overtake them in the end. The loss of the Treasure, signifies, ill got Gains prosper not. By the Bear, &c. falling out in dividing the Spoil, and the Lion's taking the Crown, shews Covetousness and Ambition will in the end most certainly bring both Sorrow and Strife.
How Reynardine, in his Travels, met the Brock, and what Council he gave him. How the Lion, upon seeing the Crown, presaged the Ruin of his Family, which so fell out. How the Fox entered into Religious Orders, had a hard Pennance ordered him for Thie∣ving, which made him run away. How he preached to a Flock of Geese, &c.
REynardine, as is said, having escaped with Life, thought he lost his Treasure, flying by many obscure Ways, coming into the King∣dom of Zalap, there he met with his Cousin Grimbard the Brock, whom he saluted, and
making himself known to him, told him of the Loss, and the Danger he had escaped; desiring him to advise him how he might be safe for the future.
To this the Brock replyed, Dear Cousin, you ask a proper Question; for this Country being open, and full of People, who take Pleasure in Hunting, and destroying us poor Beasts, it will be proper I shew you the Holes under Ground that you may escape upon any Pursuit, or else, your Life will be always in danger. Nay then, said the Fox, I wish I had not come into this Country, but still remained amongst Woods and Forests, places of surest Retreat; but being here, I now submit to be advised and guided by you in all things.
Hereupon the Brock shewed him many Sculk∣ing-holes, and places of Retreat: yet Rey∣nardine, hearing the Cries of Hounds, and Shouts of Hunters from many places, began to tremble, and seemed not to like them as sufficient Refuges in time of Danger; and therefore de∣sired his Kinsman to think of some other way for his continuing in Safety. Truely, replied the Brock, I know none, unless you will enter into Religious Orders; there you may live fat and plentifully among the Monks, and Fryers, if you can endure the Austerity of their Lives. Alas, said the Fox, ••hat I will willingly under∣take,
rather than be every moment in Jeopardy of my Life.
Upon this the Brock procured him a Pilgrim's Weed to pass the better undiscovered, and bid him follow him to the Abby of Manton, where he would interceed with the Prior to receive him; where I must leave them on their way, and fol∣low the young Lion to the Court.
The young Lion having carried the Crown with him, as is said, he presented it to his Fa∣ther, who looked wishfully on it, groaned with∣in himself, as calling to mind a Prophecy, that when that Crown should be found and presented him, the Day of Death drew near, and soon after it his Posterity should utterly fail from the Kingdom; wherefore he willed him to take it from his sight, and lock it up in a secret place, where none might ever see it, or come to wear it: This the Prince obeyed, and soon after his Father died, and he succeeded, as his eldest Son, King of Beasts; but his Brother Haughty, conspiring with the Bear, Tyger, and Panther, sew him, and soon after was slain himself, and so ended that Race, as their Father had predic∣ted.
During these Transactions, Reynardine was come to the Monastry of Manton, and there ta∣king leave of the Brock, went to crave Admit∣tance, and made his Apology so well to the Prior,
that he was kindly received, and admitted to enter on his Probation; wherein he behaved himself so modestly, and seemingly devout, that the Prior highly approved of him, and placed him under the Cook, to serve in the Kitchen; at which he greatly rejoyced, as knowing here he should stuff his Gut well; but so many things were pilfered and stole, that he accusing others, was himself accused, who was, indeed the Thief; yet he bore it out stoutly, till one Day he was catched by the Prior, who watched thro' a pri∣vate Peep-hole, going off with a whole Carp in his Sleeve, yet, upon his Submission, his Pen∣nance was alloted to fast two Days, and to live in a lonesome Cell, without the Gates of the Monastery.
This hard Usage so angered the Fox, that soon after he gave them the slip with his Religious Habit; but having travelled far, and growing very hungry, at last he espied a Flock of Geese in a Pond, where he could not come at them with∣out fear of drowning, and therefore to decoy them on Land, in a demure manner, begins to Preach to them; the silly Geese seeing him in that Ha∣bit, and, to appearance, so devoutly penitent, had no Mistrust of him, left the Water, and came foolishly gaggling round about him, desiring to see his Book, that they might say an Ave Maria, which he willingly shewed them; but
whilst they were poring on it, at two snaps he bit off two of their Heads, which so affrighted the other, that they ran screaming into the Pond again, and kept themselves in the Deep, till they saw him greedily gorge his Paunch on their Fel∣lows Carcases.
Well knowing how he should be pursued, as in∣deed he was, by the Monks and Owners of the Geese, he left that Province, and returned a∣gain to Zalap; there fell to Shriving a pracel of Ferrets, for which they were to steal him a Nest of Rabets; after that an Ass for a Bundle of Straw; but the former was catched by the War∣riner, and condemned to perpetual Imprisonment; and the latter soundly drubbed by the Owner of the Straw, upon his entering the Barn to fetch it; whilst the Fox laughed heartily, to see what Fools he had made them, and into what Dan∣ger they were brought; and after having Shriven many others, and got store of Food from them, in promise of Indulgenices upon his return from the Pope. Now as he travelled he met the Brock, whom he very kindly saluted, telling him all his Adventures, and what had befel him from their parting, and great was the Rejoycing between them; when travelling onwards, they came to the Palace of Sir Firelapel the Libard, who ly∣ing sick, and having Notice by his Servant, that a Priest approached, desired he might come
in and Confess him; when in Confession, he de∣clared he had been chiefly instrumental in bring∣ing Reynard the Fox, to the Gallows; this Reynardine stomached exceedingly, but conceal'd himself and his Resentments to a fitter Opportu∣nity, which wrought the Libard's Destruction.
Going from hence, one Evening, intending to rob a Farmer's Barn of a fat Pullet, the Train of his, Gown was catched in a Trap, and upon the Alarum it gave, he was forced to leave it behind him and flie for his Life, which put an end to the Fox's Priesthood; who, by that borrowed Shape and seeming Sanctity, had deluded many silly Beasts.
Moral.] The Lion's Presage of Destruction to his Family on sight of the Crown, signifies, we ought even to shun the sight of things that threaten Danger, and may prove fatal to us. The Fox's taking on him a Religious Life, and his Proceedings therein, shews how crafty Men, under such Pretences, delude the Ignorant. His losing his Gown, signefies, such Deceivers are at last laid open, and fall idto Disgrace and Con∣tempt.
How the Fox flying, almost starved, by a Stra∣tagem cheats the Wolf of his Prey, then flies; and, by the Advice of the Ape, turning Phy∣sician, poisons Sir Firelapel the Libard, to reuenge his Father's Death; the Ape is hang'd, but he flies; and in Disguise, endeavours, by the means of Grimlook the Mastiff, to enter the Monastry of Manton, but is des∣covered by Brindle.
THE Fox had no sooner left his Religi∣ous Habit, but he became despised and persecuted by those that had adored him in that Disguise; so that wanting the
fat Morsels they were wont to supply him withal, he grew in great Distress and Po∣verty, much bewailing the loss of his Gown, which, had he kept, would have been an Estate to him; for under that he deceived whom he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 but now he was dispised by all, and threatned with Death, though he alledged he was their very Priest, but that his Gown was stolen from him while he laid it aside to Fast and Pray; But finding this not believed, and fearing in a Mutiny, to lose his Life, he gave those that watched him the slip, and wandred a long time, starved almost in the Woods; when rang∣ing one Morning, he espied, from a Hill, Isgrim the Wolf, who had just killed a Pig; the Fox knowing the Enmity between him and his Father, stood long musing whether he should dare to go to him or not, and beg a Supply; at last Necessity urged him, rather to hazard, than certainly die by starving; and so, in a most humble man∣ner, though under a crafty Guise, ap∣proached Sir Isgrim, and, in a fair Tone, said, Dear Cousin, can you tell me where a Leech lives, that I may go to him for Physick? Cousin me, no Cousins, replied the Wolf sternly, I am no•• Kin•• to you, but scorn you and all your treacherous Race;
however, I'll venture so much Kindness to∣wards you, to ask you what you ail.
Alas, said the Fox, meeting with a di∣licious Booty, I have eaten so much, that I am even ready to burst: What dilicious Booty was it? said the Wolf; I have been hunting all this barren Country o'er and could find nothing, but what I ventured my Life for, in leaping a Stye for this poor Pig, flghting first the sharp-twanged Sow, and, e'er I could bear it off, the Farmer's Men, alarum'd by her Cries, fell on me, in my flght, and almost broke my Bones; and you well know, could I have got any thing else, I wou'd not have ventured so for Swine's Flesh, which I least of all e∣steem:
Truly, replied Reynardine, the Prey that I found, were a couple of fat Lambs, whe∣ther droped by some Cart that were car∣rying them to Market, or that they had strayed thither, I know not: but sure I am, I took them napping and slew them both, then dragging them into a dry Ditch, under a Quickset-hedge, so I gorged my self with their Blood, and some of their Intrails, that I am surfeited. Ah, said the Wolf smiling, Fasting and Action will soon recover you, without running the Danger
of being kill'd by a Physician: But Cousin, said he, very lovingly embracing him, seeing you can eat no more of this Prey, before it be tainted and spoil'd, if you will be so kind as to direct me to it, you will bind me to you for ever, and make me forget all the Wrongs your Father has done me, for there is nothing in the World I like better than Lamb.
The Fox finding he had work'd his Ends, directed him to the Place, with all the Marks and Tokens where he should find this imaginary Prey, about a League dis∣tant; the credulous Wolf, not scrupling the Truth of it, left the Pig half eaten, the Fox feigning to sleep till his return, and posts to the place; in the mean while Reynardine filled his hungry Belly, and then posted a∣way with speed, crossing many Ways, to avoid the Fury of the Wolf, who, having in vain fought for the supposed Lambs, re∣turned in great Fury to take Revenge on the Fox for deluding of him, and finding he had devoured the Prey he left behind him, he howl'd out many greivous Curses against him; but searching in all places of the neighbouring Forest could not find him; for Reynardine, fearing the Event, had earthed himself.
The Fox having staid in the Hole till it was dark, knowing the Wolf was then gone to rest, crep out, and posted with all speed to the Province of Ferraria, there, early in the Morning, he met Grimbard the Brock, and relating to him all that had passed, since they parted last, desiring his Council, to help him to some business whereby he might susstain himself; but thinking of none, he recommended him to Dame Arse∣wind the She-Ape, who liv'd in a Cell near adjoyning; she immediately perswaded him to turn Physician, since Dr. Simpleton, the Ass, had taken up that Profession and gotten great Gains by it: And so habiting himself accordingly, he throve mightily upon it, which made Simpleton repine; but the Fox, being much the cunninger, en∣creased in Fame, so that Sir Firelapel heard of it, and sent for him; but the malicious Fox, remembring his Father's Death, ha∣ving got a great Reward, gave him so great a Dose of Opium, that i•• made him, sleep his last; but soon after the Ape and he falling out about putting the Money, she left him, and discovered the Murder, but not being able to prove it, you confes∣sing herself accessary to it, she was hang'd. Then Reynardine chose Tybert the Cat for
his Associate, and got great Gains by it; so that Simpleton the Ass finding himself dis∣parag'd by this new Doctor, who pretend∣ed he came from a far Country, and his Trade falling off, in dispair hang'd himself; at which the Fox laught heartily, as now having all in his own Hands, so that he got great Gains; but being discovered not to be Doctor Pedanto, as he gave out he was, but Reynardine the Fox, being in the midst of all his Pride and Success, look'd on as an Imposture and Cheat, notice was give of it to the King, so that he was pro∣claimed a Traytor, for now the Murder of Sir Firelapel appeared against him; and in flying to Manton, he was, by the way, set upon and robbed of all his Treasure, be∣coming again very Poor, so that to free himself from the Danger that threatned, he procured a Mountebank to cut off his Ears and Tail, so that being altogether disguised, he hoped to get into the Mona∣stery again, from whence you have heard he fled:
Coming near to the Monastery, he met Grimlook the Mastiff, whom he knew to have been Porter of the Gate when he left the place: him he salutes. and entreats 〈◊〉〈◊〉 do him the kindness to speak to the Prior
and Senior Monks, that he might be ad∣mitted; to this Grimlook told him, he could not, for he was out of his Place, but he would recommend him to his Cousin Brindle, who was then Porter. This he did, but though Reynardine had changed his Name to Shifter, Brindle knew him, tho' he said nothing, and promised to do what had been proposed, but fearing at last it was a Plot between Grimlook and the Fox, to work him out of his Place, he discovered all to the Prior, who not only refused Reynardine's Admittance, but for ever banished Grimlook for having any en∣trance into the Monastery, which before he had, by a private Hole, which on this occasion was stopped up.
Moral.] The Fox being despised upon the Loss of his Religious Habit, shews, that Hypocrites and Dissemblers when found out, are hated, tho' never so much praised before. His cheating the Wolf, shews, that Policy in many cases, is more advantageous than Strength. His turning Phy∣sician, denotes, how easily People are to be de∣luded by fair Pretences.
How the Fox is the Habit of a Stranger, en∣tertained by Loed Versute the Panther, and by what means he poisoned him, to revenge his Brother's Death; and then, for the dis∣sembling Sorrow he expressed, the King made him one of his Purvoyors. How, lest he should be discovered, he made away the Brock, the Cat, and Grimlook the Mastiff. How he is known by Brindle, and accused to the King, &c.
REynardine now again put to his Shifts, gets privately into the Forest of Fer∣raria, and putting on a cast Habit he found there, went to the Palace of the Lord Ver∣sute the Panther, and by many fair Words, got to be entertained in his Service, pre∣tended he was a Stranger well born, but travelling, had been robbed of all his Wealth; telling them many strange Stories of his Travels, partly true and partly false, too tedious here to be recited; and here the better to disguise himself, he went by the Name Crabron, and so insinuated into the Panther's Favour, that his chief Ser∣vant, who waited on him, being call'd to serve the King in a very eminent Station, he was preferred to that Place, using great
Diligence to please his Lord, though Re∣venge was his Aim, for the Death of his Brother Russel, and the Loss of his Father's Treasure; which, as you have heard, the Panther was mainly instrumental in; nor was it long e'er an opportunity was put in∣to his Hands to execute his Designs: For the Panther falling grievous sick, Dr. Assino, Brother to Simpleton the Ass, was sent for, who had supplied his Brother's Place, and was no wiser than himself: This Ass-doctor gave his Patient many Potions, but to little purpose: for the Panther being grievously surfeited by devouring a Stagg he had run down, and withal his Body very foul, his Stomach was sorely afflicted and torment∣ed: Assino not knowing what further to do to give him Ease, or any ways to relieve him: The Fox understanding this, was ex∣ceeding joyful, and coming into the Pre∣sence of the Panther, while the Ass-doctor was gone to take care of the Medicines, least any one should play some evil Trick in his Absence: But the Fox's Design being Michief and Destruction, he in the Night∣time, infused a deadly Bane into it, which, upon taking, soon kill'd the Panther, who died in great Torment; and tho' they were both of them vehemently suspected, yet
according to the common Rule of pretend∣ed ignorant Quacks, they strongly alledg∣ed, That the Panther being old, his time was come, which had it not, a Medicine so excellently prepared, had wrought his Recovery; using many Allegations to prove it by the Rules of Physick and Nature, and the Fox, the better to excuse himself, la∣mented his Death extreamly, to appear∣ance, often going to his Grave, and there shedding feigned Tears; so that at length he was not only concluded Innocent, but much commended for the great Love they supposed he bore his deceased Lord; and the King hearing of it, sent for him to Court, and made him his Purveyor.
The Fox thus raised, begins to fear e∣very one that had formerly known him in Disguise, least they should betray him, and therefore resolved, as fast as he could, to make them away, that they should tell no Tales: his first Project was to betray the Cat to a place, where in hopes of Mice, she was strangled in a Snare, and when dead, the Fox buried him privately, that the thing might not be known, nor enquired into: Grimlook the Mastiff, who knew him, as having discovered himself to him in hopes of getting into the Monastery, was the
next whose Life he aimed at; and thus he contrived his Death, having found a deep Well in the Forest, with much Water in it, laid Reeds and rotten Sticks a cross it, and upon them Earth, and then green Grass and Leaves, as a Carpet, thither he conveyed Marrow-bones, and one, above the rest, with much Flesh on it, and invited Grim∣lood to Dinner; who overjoyed at the op∣portunity, as being out of Place, and very hungry, accepted the supposed kind Offer, and being led by Revnardine to the place, he had no sooner leaped on it with all his weight, as greedy to catch the Prey, but down sunk he and the Banquet together into the Well; where, howling for help in vain, the Fox tumbled great Stones upon him and drowned him, then covering the place, returned to Court, rejoycing, as now supposing he was rid of all those that could impeach him, or bring him into Danger; but while he was hugging him∣self in this good Luck, Brindle, for Theft, being expelled the Monastery at Manton, came into the Forest to seek his Living, and finding the Fox high in Favour, would have scraped Acquaintance with him, but he utterly denied ever to have known him; which so insenced Brindle, that he resolved
to discover his true Name to the King, and accordingly did, with all the Circumstances how he hah caused himself to be disguised, and came to the Monastery of Manton, and how he was known there, and denied Ad∣mittance: Upon this Crabron, the disgui∣sed Reynardine, was sent for, and charged by the King, on the Words of Brindle, as a Traytor; but he stoutly denied all, al∣ledging, That it was Malice in the Ma∣stiff, because he had not preferred him ac∣cording to his Desire. This so enraged Brindle, that witout considering he was in the King's Presence, ••e fell upon the Fox, and had killed him, had he not been taken off.
For this Indiscretion he was committed to Prison; during his being there, the Fox devised to make him away, and habiting himself like a Lord's Sorvitor, he brought him Food, as from his Lord, which the Mastiff, without Suspicion, eating, soon died, with all the Symptoms of Poison, but none yet knew who did it.
Moral.] The Fox's entering into the Pan∣ther's Service, and poisoning him, denotes a re∣vengeful Person, who, under the greatest Shew of Friendship, hides his Malice till he can exe∣cute
his Vengeance. His betraying Grimlook, and poisoning Brindle, denotes, that when we suspect our Guilt will be discovered, base Meant are used to prevent it.
The Fox was again question'd, found Guilty, and condemned; but reprieved upon promise to discover a vast Treasure; how the Luche•• is sent with him to fetch it, but the Fox given him the slip, and flies again to Zalap.
THE Fox, by this time, well knowing that •…•…dle was dead, appeared ear∣ly in the Presence of the King, and desired, that now what he had to say in excuse of Yesterday's Accusation might be heard: The King told him it should, when the Witness appeared, who was immediately sent for; but, instead of bringing him, the Goaler came to excuse his Death; say∣ing he was poisoned; and that he verily believed, by all Circumstances, he had been the occasion of it himself: For, says he, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 offered him Food Yesterday, but he would eat none, raving at a strange rate, till a Stranger came, whom I suppose, was his Consederate in the Mischief, and from him he took Food and eat it greedily.
The King hearing this strange Story, was much perplexed, and shrewdly sus∣pected his Servant Crabron had a hand in it, but having no Proof, he held his Peace for a time.
The Fox now supposing he was safe, all being destroyed that could accuse or disco∣ver him; in the midst of all his Jolity, was dashed by the arrival of Lightfoot the Grey∣hound, who has lived in the Monastery of Manton; of him the King enquired, Whe∣ther ever he knew one Reynardine, that had been an Officiate in the Monastery? To this he replied, He had, indeed, heard of such a one's being there, and of the Pranks he had plaid; which agreeing with what Brindle had said, increased the King's Sus∣picion, especially when confirmed by Quick∣scent the Lurcher, that came from the said Monastery; so, whatever Excuses Crabron, or the disguised Reynardine could make, the King's Anger encreasing, he resolv'd to ex∣tort a true Confession out of him, which he seemed to decline, by racking him: Crabron hearing his Decree, begged hearti∣ly to have it excused, and greatly urged his Innocency; but could not prevail, for the King's Suspicion more and more in∣creasing, he ordered four strong Beasts to
take him and draw his Limbs divers ways, and not to leave off till he had confessed the truth.
This Punishment being immediately put in execution, Craborn crying out very griev∣ouslly, as if he had been torn in sunder, though, to say the truth, he was little hurt, yet his Tormentors not leaving off, thinking he should at last be killed in ear∣nest, with a mournful Voice he begged to be delivered out of their Hands, and he would freely confess all. This being or∣dered, he, instead of performing it, pro∣ceeded only to excuse himself of not know∣his Accusers, or ever being in the Country where the Monastery stood; which much inraged the King, but for that time he thought it sufficient to commit him to strong Ward in Prison, and on the Morrow cause him to be racked again, till he clear∣ly confessed the truth of the matter.
Upon this the Fox was carried off, griev∣ously complaining he should die with the Anguish of his Tortures, for his Limbs were all disjoynteds, but this served only as a Pretence to make his Guards the more careless of him, that he might the better make his Escape, which accordingly he did; for being lodged in the Ground-room
of the Prison, and strongly locked and bolted in, whilst his Goalers slept, he dug a Hole under the Foundation of the Wall, and creeping through it, fled; but they for their Drowsiness paid very dear, the in∣censed King causing them, the next Day, to be executed, as Traytors, for conspiting with Crabron, and furthering his Escape to plot new Treasons against his Royal Crown and Dignity; all they could alledge not availing them.
The Fox having escaped thus luckily, travelled all Night, till he came into the Forest of Pitwood, where Sir Chanticleer the Cock, with his numerous Progeny, held his Residence, of whom he made a grievous Spoil, till, at last, the old Cock suspecting who he was, hasted to young Sir Firelapil, and made him acquainted with his thoughts; this young Gallant knowing the King's Proclamation was out against the Fox, with Promise of a great Reward and Preferment to those that should apprehend him, acquainted the King with it, and un∣dertook to seize him and bring him to Court with him; yet Quickscent following his footing, after a tedious Race, run him down and took him; at this the Libard grinned, knowing his Honour was eclisp'd
thereby, therefore he took the Fox by force from the Lurcher, and made him his Prisoner; but the Bear, Wolf and Hanna envying him that Advantage, fell upon him to take the Prisoner from him; but the two last of these he slew, and put the first, sore wounded, to flight; in the mean while the Fox had escaped, had not the Lurcher had a watchful Eye over him, and taken him on fresh Pursuit. Then he was brought to Court, where the King up braid∣ed him with his Father's, and his own Treacheries, and ordered him immediately to the Gallows, placing a Writing on his Head of the several Namms he had gone by to deceive and betray the Beasts of the Fo∣rest.
When he was ascending the Ladder, he made a free Confession of all his Crimes he had committed, except the Murders, which he laboured to excuse; and then to insi∣nuate himself with the King, in expecta∣tion of Pardon, he made a long feigned Story of an infinite Mass of Treasure not yet discovered, giving a large Catalogue of Jewels, Rings, Gold-chains, and Money; then seemly offered himself to Death, with∣out telling the place where they lay: To this the King began to harken attentively,
yet doubted it was a dissembling to save his Life; yet Covetousness prompting him eargerly to thurst after so great Riches, he, upon Craborn's solemn Oath that all was true, caused him to be taken from the Gal∣lows and returned to Prison, till he had considered the matter, whether it might be true or not; and demanding if it could not be taken up without him, he being kept as a Pledge for the Certainty of its being there; No, replied the Fox, for it was secured by one Ad••lman an Inchanter, who is now dead, and the Spell is so strong, that without it be dissolved by Sacrifices, which I must offer, it cannot be taken up.
The King hearing him name Ad••lman, and that he was dead, resolved, for a bet∣ter Confirmation of the Truth of the whole matter, to know whether there was such a Person, and thereupon sent with speed to enquire, which proving so, and that he was dead, made him the easier credit the rest: then calling the Lurcher, he commanded him to go with the Fox and see the Trea∣sure, but besure to watch him narrowly, least he gave him the slip: This he under∣took, and so away they travelled, early in the Morning, to the Forest of Longwood, and the Fox pretending to be near the place,
made a Circle, and prepared his Sacrifices, which were to be offered up unto Fortune, Venus, Mars, Mercury, and Pluto, five seve∣ral Days in five several Circules; but on the first Day the Lurcher being tired out by walking so long to watch the Fox, who himself slept soundly a Nights, could hold up no longer, but falling asleep, the Fox took the Advantage he had look'd for, and secretly stole away; which when the Lur∣cher, starting from his sleep, found, he hunted and beat the Forest about, but all in vain, for Reynardine was got beyond his reach; so that after a tedious and fruitless Search, with Fear, Shame and Anger he returned again to the Royal Court at San∣den.
Moral.] By the Fox's feigning hidden Trea∣sure, denotes, crafty Men, by Policy, escape Dan∣ger, when Strength fails them. The Lyon-gi∣ving Credit to it, and saving his Life, denotes, Covetousness over-ballances Justice, and corrupts the Judge. By the Fox's pretending to Sacrifi∣ces, shews, that Religion, as a Cloak, is often pretended, to cover intended Frauds, and noto∣rious Villanies, &c.
How the Lurcher's returning without the Fox, angers the King, and causes him to put out his Proclamation for apprehending him. How many Beasts went in search of him, and the Mischief that befel them by the means of the Brock. How the Fox is taken by the Ass and escapes, leaving him in Slavery, and what after befel on that Account. In what man∣ner the Fox lived till he was again taken by the Lurcher.
THE King finding himself thus deluded by the Fox, was exceeding angry, blaming much the Lurcher, but more him∣self, for crediting so cunning a Dissembler; yet resolving to be revenged, he put out his Proclamation, encouraging the Pursuit of him with promise of Reward and Ho∣nours; so that a number of Beasts hasted to the Kingdom of Zalap, whether they suspected him to be gone; each posting se∣veral ways to outstrip each other, as fear∣ful, by coming too late, to lose this Ho∣nour; and with them went the Brock, the Fox's Friend, to give him private Notice of the Dangers, if he might find him out without any others knowing it; and in∣deed
he had the luck to do it, as knowing well what kind of places he used to lurk in, in such eminent time of Danger, and gave him Notice of all that had passed, and what Beasts were come out in Search of him: as the Tyger, the Boar, the Horse, Goat, Bull, Camel, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Ass, Brother to the Ass-doctor, and many others.
To this 〈◊〉〈◊〉, for so now must I call him again, replied, I fear not all these, dear Cousin, so much as I do Quickscent the Lurcher, if he be not with them to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 me out, I am safe enough. Indeed, said the Brock, I had forgot him, he is here: but I'll quickly send him upon a false Ru∣mour: I'll raise a great way off, that he may not yet get the Scent of you, when you are disposed to travel abroad; and so contrive it with the rest, that most of them shall repent their coming in search of you.
The Fox here upon heartily thank'd him, and brought out a young Pheasant he had newly taken, on which they supped and were merry, and a little before Day the Brock left him, and laboured to draw the Beasts from his Hole, and by crafty Devi∣ces, sent them to such places to search, that they either fell into Snares, Slavery, or were many of them slain by the Country People.
However, the Fox hearing more were coming, and being scanty of Provision, went to the Palace of Squire Careless, and entertained himself as a Servant to him, up∣on Condition he might have Liberty to walk about the House, and not be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as many of his Kindred were.
This being agreed on, having made Friendship with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Place, he lived in great Plenty for a time; but one Day as he lay basking in the Sun in the Court-yard aseep, the Dogs being likewise asleep in the Kennels, after full Bellies, Witless the Ass coming by, and peeping o∣ver the Wicket, espied the Fox; then set∣ting his Arse against it, he forced it open, and entring, surprized the sleeping Fox, running away with him, in great haste in his Mouth, unseen of any Body: The Fox sinning himself thus tricked by the Ass, be∣gan gently to slatter and entreat him, say∣ing, he was exceeding glad, since it must be, that he was fallen into the Hands of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 counteous and generous a Person, to w•…•… when he first heard the Proclamati∣on, he would willing have surrendred him∣self, could he have conveniently found him, praising his Understanding and pru∣dent Conduct to the Skies; so that the
Ass thinking all real, protested he was sor∣ry now he had taken him, and would let him go, were it not that he expected to be made a Lord for taking him; which Honour he had along time extreamly co∣ve••ed, that he might out-brave his Kins∣man the D•…•…, who, being rich, looked shie, and scorned him for his Poverty. The Fox heartily thanked him for his good Meaning towards him; but desired to know how they should do to shift for Pro∣vision in their Way to the Court, consider∣ing it would take them up eight Days. As for me, said the Ass, every Lane will af∣ford Thistle and Boughs; but for you, who are wont to live on Flesh, I know not how you will fair, unless you make Provision to carry with you. That I have done, said the Fox, for about Mile in our Way, I have a Store-house, where I have laid up Provisions against any time of Ne∣cessity that may fall out: and if you be pleased to carry so much as is needful for me, you will exceedingly oblige me. Yes, said the Ass, with a very good Will: come, let us hasten on our Journey, and I will do you all the Service I can; nor would I have been instrumental in this your Misfortune, had it not been in hopes to have been a
Lord. Upon this they set foreward, dis∣coursing together on their Way of divers matters, till walking by a Park side, with high Pails, the Fox espied a convenient Hole; then said he, glad of the Opportu∣nity, In this place is my Provision, I have it in a Wallet, stay you here and I will fetch it instantly. The Ass was loath to trust him at such a Disadvantage; but before he could reply, the nimbly Fox whippedin, and then it was to no purpose to argue.
However, the Ass in Expectation of his Return, which he intended not, stood waiting, resting his Nose on the top of the Pa••ls, which was as much as he could reach when he stood on his Hind-feet, so that it was impossible for him to leap o∣ver: Now the mean while the Fox hasted to the Wood-man, that was lopping in the neighbouring Forest, saying, Sir Wood-man, I bring you the rarest News you can wish for. What is that? says the Woodman. Why, replied he, yonder is a strange wild Ass without an Owner, fat, lusty, and of a large size, that will, if you take him, do you great Service in carrying Wood or other Burthens, much to the ease of your own Labour. Where is he? said
the Wood-man. Let me but see him, and I'll halter him, I'll warrant you, and soon make him tame: and for your Kindness in shewing me him, when ever you chance to be hunted, make into this Forest, and I will do my Endeavour to secure you from the Fury of the Hounds.
The Fox thanked him, and immediately lest him to the Place where the Ass stood •…•…ing, or in Asses Language calling out, Sir Reynardine, Sir Reynardine, make haste, that we may proceed on our Journey.
The Wood-man, upon this, coming slily behind him, creeping under the shelter of the Bank, so that he could not be seen of the Ass, all on a sudden, to the Ass's great Surprize, clapped a strong Haltar about his Neck, fastning it immediately to a strong Post that upheld the Pails, and tho' the Ass struggled and brayed hideously, all was in vain, the more he struggled, the more the Wood-man cudgeled him; till quite tired, and sore bruised, he was forced to lie down, and submit himself to his Mercy.
The Fox seeing this, laughed heartily, to think how he had taken his Taker; yet, not appearing in sight, he lay close to see the Ass carried away, and then posted back
to Squire Careless's House, arriving there before he was missed; and soon after he had the pleasure to see Witless, with other Asses, come laden with heavy Bundles of Wood on a Pack-saddle, into the Court-yard; the Wood-man serving the Squire with Fuel.
Coming to him, he thus saluted him; My Lord Witless, I am glad to see you in∣vested in your new Honour; your Coat of Arms methinks, suits you rarely well, and your other Accou••rements are very splen∣did, I have seen many, but none like it for Beauty and Gayness Hah! the Packsaddle and Cross-sticks in a green Field, embla∣zoned with a ••••altar and Girths; 'tis all admirable! above what your Lordship's Ancestors durst pretend to.
The Ass hearing these Taunts, verily be∣lieved he had betrayed him into Slavery, and therefore, in a Fury, ran at him to trampie him under his Feet, with loud B•…•…s; but the Fox, being nimble, shipped into the hole of his Kennel, lay •…•…e, and saw the Ass sev••••ely banged for breaking his Girths in struggling, and let∣ting the Wood fall about the Yard: And though the Ass laboured hard to excuse it, and accuse the Fox of Treachery; yet the
Wood-man not understanding his Langua∣ge, exasperated by his Braying, beat him but the more; so that finding himself in a piteous plight, he was forced to be mute: and upon his return, grievously complain∣ed to his Fellow-asses of his hard Usage; who bid him be of good Comfort, since he was not yet acquainted with his Master's Humours, which when he was, and he knew how to please him, his Condition would be more tollerable, as themselves they said had proved: For, said one of them, tho' he be a little rough, he is a care∣ful Provider for us; for in the hard times of Winter, when there is nothing growing that is pleasant to feed on, he will rob all the Barns and Stacks within ten Miles, to get us Provinder, and load us home with it, to our great Satisfaction, when other Asses, turn'd to shift on a Heath or Com∣mon, are ready to perish with Cold and Hunger. This Discourse a little comforted Witless, and made him bear his Slavery the better, which he did not so much stand up∣on, as that he had of being made a Lord.
Moral.] By the unfortunate ends of the Fox's Pur∣suers, for the most part, signifies, Men that are too forward to seek the risin of others, fall into ruin themselves. By the Brock, is signified, that among
many Enemies, one may find a true Friend. The Ass's taking the Fox, signifies, Ignorance aided by Strongth, may on a Surprize, overcome the Witty; by the Fox's deluding the Ass and bringing him into Slavery, signifies, in the end, that Policy is better than Strength, and ever a secure Foundation to build on; for without the latter, the former stands not long:
How Squire Careless Breaking, the Fox entered into the Service of one Gripepenny, a miserable Miser; the Agreement he made with him, and in what manner they lived together, till the Fox was acci∣dentally discovered and seized on by Quickscent the Lurcher.
REynardine the Fox, living at Squire Careless's House, and not only providing for himself, but often brought Presents of Poultry, Rabits and the like for his Master, which greatly pleased him; but his Riot and Extravagance was so great, in keeping open House, and entertaining lewd Fel∣lows, as Fidlers, Morrice-dancers, and the like, that a while after the Fox came hither, his Credi∣tors Clamours frighted him away, and all he had was seiz'd on: nay, the Fox, had he not been nimble, to escape thro' a Hole, had fallen into their Clutches, and been a Slave, or his Skin, perhaps, sold to the Furrier, to pay part of his Master's Debts
The Fox thus luckily escaping at breaking up of House-keeping, was however, put to shift for a new Master, not daring to venture much abroad in the Day-time, as knowing the Lurcher and o∣thers were yet abroad in search of him: and there fore casting in his mind whether to go, at length he bethought himself of an old Miser, call'd Gripe penny, who liv'd a miserable covetous life, though the Fox, the Incomes I shall bring him by 〈◊〉〈◊〉
Theft will make this Fellow entertain me with a good Will. To his House therefore he hasted, and proffered him his Service; but when the Miser heard he had been a Servant to Squire Careless, he took up a Staff, crying out, Varlet, hence from my Door, with speed, or I will cripple you, you are one of those extravagant Villains that ruined my careless and foolish Neighbour: and would you get Entertainment in my House to ruin me too? Away with you Rascal.
The Fox hearing this Language, began mi••ily to intreat him, saying, Have patience a little, and I will satisfie you other ways. As how? as how? Speak quickly then said Gripepenny. Why, reve∣rend Sir, said the Fox, tho' I liv'd with Squire Careless, yet I eat not of his Meat, nor drank of his Cup, all I had of him was but a little Lodging, and for that I greatly recompenced him, for few Nights pussed, but ranging abroad, I brought him either a big, Goose, Turkey ••ullet, Cock, Capon, Duck, Rabit or the like; which might have sup∣plied his House in a great measure, had not his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 way of-living been so excessive.
This made the Miser rejoyce, and thereupon requested him to come in; then he demanded if he would serve on these Terms: Yes, said the Fox, withal my Heart, if may have my free liber∣ty to go and come when I please, That you shall, said the Miser, if I find you faithful and dilligent in what you have promised. Doubt not that said, the Fox; but then I must have Holes to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and out at my Pleasant, to 〈…〉〈…〉. That you shall have, said the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And 〈◊〉〈◊〉 all things were accordingly 〈…〉〈…〉 and he should to his Lodging, in a 〈…〉〈…〉 he Back-side, and some Seraps of 〈…〉〈…〉 and Cheese given him for a 〈…〉〈…〉
but badly relish'd; yet being hungry, and in hopes of better Cheer when he went abroad at Night, he seem'd contented with it, that his new Master might not think he was over fine mouth'd.
No sooner was the Night come, but he went a Forraging in the Neighbouring Hen-roests, and having sufficed himself with fat Pullen, he brought his Master Gripepenny home a fat Goose, he catch∣ed napping under a Hovel in a Farmer's Yard: This pleased the old Miser wonderfully; but be∣ing too covetous to eat such a dainty Morsel, he pulled it, and sold it in the Market, buying Neck∣beef with part of the Money. And thus they lived together. Reynardine frequently supplying him, till an unlucky Accident happened.
The Lurcher being still on the Search, and ha∣ving made a Vow never to return to Court with∣out the Fox, rambling over many other Kingdoms, and scented all the most likely places to find him, but met with Disappointments, when being about to leave off seeking any further, dispairing of Suc∣cess, and yet resolved to keep his Vow, and not return to the Lion's Court, being tired and over∣heated, he lay down on the backside of Grip••pen∣ny's House, in a dry Ditch, close under the Pa••ls; yet long he had not been there, careful and pen∣sive, but, to his great Joy, he espied the Fox co∣ming out at his Hole, but it being yet Day, and he suddenly poping in again, he thought it not fit to seize him, but for fear of being discovered, withdrew to a neighbouring Wood till Night, in∣to which, he doubted not but the Fox would come for his Prey.
In this the Lurcher was not mistaken, for in the dusk of the Evening he came ranging, after his accustomed manner, to see if the Coasts were clear; for about this Wood there were many Farm-houses
and so close the Lutcher lay, that he came very near him before he stirred; then whilst the Fox was scenting the Wind, to know which way his Game lay, he suddenly leap'd on him, carrying him by the mape of the Neck into the middle of the Wood; the surprized Fox, all the way crying piteously out for help; and it being then dark, the Lurcher bound him for that Night, and notwith∣standing his Flattery and Entreaties, early the next Morning, forced him to go along with him to the Court; where being come, the Fox was immedia∣tely committed close Prisoner, and Quinckscent the Lurcher, for his Service got great Credit and Ap∣plause, the King giving him the Title Lord Quick∣scent, and caused his honour to be proclaim'd; and, as a Reward, put a Golden Coller about his Neck.
Moral.] By Gripepenny's entertaining the Fox, when he heard his Story, signifies, that covetous Men for their own Advantage, care not how thievish, or wickedly their Gains are come by. By the Lurcher's taking the Fox at last, denotes, that wicked Men, how cunning soever they be, do not always escape.
The Fox being imprisoned, mediates his Escape, gets his Irons taken off•…•…ly fatr Promises to the Goaler, then put a Trick upon him, and attempting to escape, finding it difficult, earth'd himself in the Prison; and upon Enquiry, not being found, the Goaler is hang'd.
THE Fox lying Pensive in Prison, expecting the time of his approaching Death, and not ho∣ping for Mercy, had many serious thoughts upon him: but the chiefest was, if possible, to make his escape, but then considering how strongly he was iron'd, and that his Guards were vigilant, if he should attempt it, and not succeed, his Death wou'd be the more speedy, and that not without
Torments: However, he often cast it in his Mind, but finding it in a manner impossible, concluded himself overtaken.
Yet persive in these Thoughts, at length over∣coming in his Mind all supposed Difficulties that stood in his way, he resolved to try if any Strata∣gem might free him: first he flattered with promise of great Reward, his Goaler, if he would take off his Irons, which he said, being too strait, greatly pain'd him; hoping if he were cased of that In∣cumbrance, he might be in a fair way to escape; but in this he found him very difficult: Fox, said he, if it were known, I shall lose my Place, if not my Life; especially should your escape be further∣ed by it; for I well remember, when you escaped before, those that guarded you, were without Mercy put to Death, Ah! said the Fox, I know it as well as you, and mourned their Misfortunes much, and often wish'd, I being Guily, had died, rather than those Innocents have suffered in my place; but now I have repented me of my Sins, which then I had not done, which made me fear∣ful of Death; but now my Thoughts are fully prepared for it, and I am so weary of my Life, thro' the Troubles and Fears I have undergone, that I am so far from thinking of making my E∣scape, that would the King grant me his Pardon, it would be little welcome to me.
Nay, said the Goaler, if to take off your Irons, in way of Courtesie to ease you, might do you a Kindness, could I do it, I so much honour your Race, that I would do you such a Courtesie: But how shall I come by the Reward, if you are executed; have you any Money about you? The Reward, said the Fox, you shall be sure of, tho' I have no Money about me; for when I know I must go to the Place of Execution, I will
privately whisper you in the Ear, the Place where I have hid so great a Treasure, as will enrich you and your Kindred all your Days
The Fox's Irons were no sooner off, tho' he pretended to be crippled with them, but he began to rejoyce, hoping now to have another Tryal for his Escape, to defeat his Enemies of their Ex∣pectations; but his main Business was how to get the Goaler out of the way, who had strict Com∣mand, on pain of Death, narrowly to watch him Day and Night, till he was delivered into the Execu•…•…ner's Hands.
Whereupon after he had complained a while his Head aked, he fell a reaching and vomiting, declaring, he was piteous Sick, and desired to have a Physician and a Confessor sent for fearing in the case of the latter, he might die before Sentence was passed upon him, and he was willing to make peace with his Conscience before he de∣parted. The Goaler, who had strick Orders to let none come at him, without they brought the King's Signet, said he could not do this; desiring him in these Extramities, to make use of him, pretending, boastingly of his own Parts and Ac∣quirments, to be both Priest and Physician. The Fox was glad to hear this, and desired, in the first place to know what Drugs he had; For, said he, this Disease has before seiz'd me, but never so violently, and threatned me very near with Death, and knowing what I formerly used, if I see your Drugs, I will chuse the most proper.
The Goaler readily obey'd, and fetch'd a confu∣sed M••dley of such things as he had 〈…〉〈…〉 toge∣ther, to give his Prisoners when sick, •…•…b 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at a venture, either for Killing or Curing; and the Fox having tumbled them over, to his great Satis∣faction found a pretty good quantity of Opinus,
which his Goaler being ignorant of, among others, he chose, and defining him to fetch him some Wine to mix them with, the better to take them: The Goaler flattering himself, if he pleased him well, and he should now die, he would at large discover to him his Treasure he had hid, and no body beside should know it, fetched a Quart. The Fox reproved him for his Lavishness, as be∣ing, he said, far too much for a sick Person. O, replied the Goaler, you may well enough use it, or if you do not, I can well enough dispense with it.
This was to the Fox's purpose, and thereupon, with some of it, he proceeded to mix what Drugs he pleased, secretly conveying the Opium into the rest; then feigning to be much better, heartily thanked him, and told him, he might take it a∣way; and for his Confession, he would defer it till he saw how he should be, if he thought he should live, he would reserve it to be made at the Gal∣lows, where his own Confessor was to attend him.
The Goaler seemed satisfied, and gulped down the rest of the Wine to the good Recovery of the Fox's Health, and his finding great Favour with the King; and so sitting down, immediately fell into a profound Sleep. Then the Fox took the Keys and opened the Inner-door, in hopes to o∣pen the other and escape; but there contrary to expectation, he found a Guard, who it seems, watch'd Night and Day; this much startled him, wherefore he return'd and attempted the Win∣dows, but the Bars were so close, that he could not get his Head thro'; but then a Project coming into his Mind, he pull'd of some of his Wooll and stuck it on the Grates, that however, when search was made, they might think he had escaped that way, as being grown thin and lean by his long Fasting; and then give over in that place, and
not mistrusting him there, the Doors being lest open, he might escape unseen. Upon this he went and fed lustily on such Provisions as he had, that he might thereby subsist the longer, and so under an old Pair of Stairs in the Passage, earth'd him∣self, drawing in the Earth and covering himself so close, that he had only a Breathing place, and so continued as long as might be. Now two Days being passed, his Execution was designed the next Morning, and a great Guard came to receive the Prisoner; but instead of this the Goaler a waken∣ed from the Effects of his sleepy Dose, in great Perplexity, and about to hang himself thro' Fear of worse Punishment for his Neglect, and the Anger, that at the same time possessed him for his giving Credit to the Fox's Flatteries and Dissimu∣lation, whom he, at the same time, knew had often deceived wiser than himself.
Of him they enquired for the Prisoner, she wing the King's Order for him to deliver him into their Hands; to which he answered, in a distracted man∣ner, he knew not what was become of him, but believed him to be the Devil, for he had got from him invisible, the Doors being shut; telling them the Story of his pretended Sickness, but no∣thing of his taking off the Irons, nor that himself had profoundly slept. The Fox heard all this, and could not forbear laughing: Then they looked a∣bout to see what Place possibly he might get out at, and finding no Suspicion of any, till they came to the Window, where they found his Wool stick∣ing on the Iron-bars; whereupon some said he was gone that Way, but others considering the Narrowness of the Space between, said it was im∣possible. However, they commanded the Goaler to go along with them, and give an Account of it to the King, that the matter might be rightly under∣stood,
and they freed from Suspicion and Blame: This Fear made him loath to go; but they told him, if he would not go willingly, they would compel him, and then it would look as if he had purposely permitted the Escape; whereupon he accompanied them to Court.
The King hearing the Story, and how he had a∣gain been deluded, groan'd with himself for An∣ger, immediately causing the G••aler to be put to Death with Torments; putting out a fresh Pro∣clamation, and sending Pursuers again in Search of the escaped Fox.
Moral.] The Fox's dissembling with the Goaler, and promising great Rewards, denotes, Covetousness blinds Mens Fore-sight, and makes them do things that will certainly bring them to Destruction. The Fox's taking this Course, denotes, in a desperate Case, nothing is to be omitted, that carries with it a Shadow of Safety.
Reynardine attemping to escape, is prevented, and brought before the King, and boldly confesses his Crimes, then being ordered to the Gallows, he, by a Stratagem, hangs the Executioner, but is after-wards hang'd and quarter'd himself.
THE FOX, in his close hiding, being driven to great Straits for want of Provision, and al∣most stifl'd, began to contrive what way he might yet take to make his Escape, he attempted there∣fore to dig a Hole under the Prison-wall, and e∣scape that way, but found it so rocky, after he had digged half a Fathom, that he could go no further; this put him into a pitiful Plight, where∣upon he concluded to he privately behind the Outward-door, and when it was opened, steal out, if he might, unseen.
This he attempted, but without Success; for soarce was he got out of the Court-yard but he was espy'd and so furiously pursued by many Beasts, that he, in the chase of a Mile or two, was taken, and im∣mediately dragged to the Court, with great Shouts and Acclamations. The King hearing the Noise demanded the Cause, and being told that Reynar∣dine was retaken, he greatly rejoyced, command∣ing he should be brought before him, which he was with a sorrowful and dejected Countenance; then he commanded Manacles should be put on him, to prevent his starting for the future.
This done, he said, Reynardine, thou Traytor, you see even Destiny it self has designed you for a shameful Death, from which all your Wiles can not free you: What can you now say to the many Murders charg'd against you? Hold up your Head, and, if Shame and Horror will permet you, clear your Conscience by a free Confession.
To this the Fox replied, Dread Sovereign, I own myself worthy of Death: for indeed I have grievously offended against your Highness, and hurt most Beasts in the Forests; many I have mur∣dared in Revenge of my Father's Death, and o∣thers to prevent being discovered: As to the first, I poison'd the Leopard and Panther, who I was inform'd had betrayed my Father, and brought him to a shameful Death, and thereby pull'd down your Wrath, upon me, and his whole Posterity: Grimlock the Mas••st, Brindle, and Tybert the Cat, I made away least knowing me in my Disguise, they should discover me, and so betray my Life to your Anger: And the like I would have done by others, had I not been prevented: for Self-preservation is a powerful thing, and would make any one, as I think, prefer his own Life before the Life of another. As for the Injury I did to 〈…〉〈…〉 I am sorry for it, but
Necessity, that has no Law, drove me to it; You, in part, was the Cause of it, by banishing me, and forcing me into those Straits, which, for the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Support of my Life, made me commit the Crime, where I had no Malice, nor receiv'd no Injury: My Hypocrisie in pretending to be a Monk, having gotten that Habit, and under a Veil of Sanctity, cheating many, I repent me of it; yet are there many worse Hypocrites than I, that wear them, making Religion a Trade and Gain, more than a real Profession. That I turned Physician I own, and that in meer Emulation to spoil the Ass Doctor's Trade; tho' since, I think there are so many Pretenders, as skilful in Physick as him∣self, that few but Asses turn Physicians; and as I did a little purposed Mischief, they do a great deal; mine was on a just Revenge, purposely, whilst their is ignorantly, for Lucre and Self-In∣terest: for where they to be paid if the Patient lived, and not if he died, they would be more careful, or their Trade would be of little Value; but die or die not, it being all one many times, when the Patient's Money is exhausted, and the Desease grows tedious to them, and they know not what to make of it, they try Practises at random, if he lives so, if not, why then truly his time was come and why could help it? And therefore for this. I think, I ought not to be so much blamed,
The King hearing him speak thus boldly, and in some measure, justify part of his Proceedings, wondered at his Impudence, and demanded where the Treasure was, he pretended to be hid by A∣•…•… the Enchanter? Oh, replied he, that was in Aesop's Fables to gain Credit, that I might get him to escape; and my intended Sacrifices like 〈…〉〈…〉 Miracles: Nay, you, if I thought, as I be: 〈…〉〈…〉 they will not, smooth Flatteries would pass upon you, I am not so willing to Die, but I would 〈…〉〈…〉 once more.
That shall not be, said the King, unless you us Witchcraft to vanish into the Air; whereupon he ordered him to be immediately carried into the outward Court, where a Gibbet was erected, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 there to be executed; commanding the Lurch to do that Office, who seem'd very unwilling but the King's eexpress Command compell'd him to it. Then were his Manacles taken off, and he mounted the Ladder, after the Lurcher, having the Halter about his Neck; being mounted, and the Rope fastne•••• to the Gibbet, he desired time to prepare himself, desiring them that were Specta tors to join with him in singing Mass, which when they devoutly was doing, poring upon their Books, he slipped the Halter off his Neck, and cast the Noose about the Luroher's, throwing him off the Ladder, saying, Harm watch, harm catch; an immediately leaping down, narrowly prevented by the long Libard, from escaping; which, while they were doing, and not minding the Lurcher, he hung so long till he was quite dead; then they bound the Fox Hand and Foot, carried him 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Ladder, and taking the dead Lurcher out thrust his Head in, and by hard pulling his Legs immediately hang'd him. And the King hearing what he had done, caus'd him to be quartered and they set up in the Places where he had don the most Mischief. Then went the Poets to wo•• on his last Speech and Confession, to the Tune of many doleful Ditties, which got them a com¦fortable Penny in hard Times.
Moral.] The Fox's endeavouring to escape, and being prevented, denotes however wicked Men may escape, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 length their Cunning fails them. His Confession de•••• tes, that those who do wickedly, will excuse themselves on the wicked Deeds of others. His Hanging the Lur∣cher, shews, that Malice and Revenge is not overcome by the fear of Death.