Æsop in select fables ... with A dialogue between Bow-steeple dragon and the Exchange grashoper.

FAB. I. The Tortoise and Frogs.

A Heavy Tortoise seeing Frogs Nimbly leap in Pools and Boggs, Bless'd their limber Hams, that they Could so bravely frisk and play; Curs'd the hard and heavy Pack That Nature laid on his own Back: He could neither Skip nor Dance, Nor caper A-la-mode de France. But as soon's he saw the Stork Could the Frogs from Puddle fork,

And that for all their nimble Heels They became a Prey to Eels; Then he quickly chang'd his Note, And for's own Coat of Mail gave Vote; Thank'd his Stars that he was free From Storks and such-like Tyranny, By being armed Cap-a-pee.

MORAL.

Did but see through Gallick Sway How feeble Subjects are a Prey To th' Sovereign's arbitrary Will, Who can at's Pleasure save and kill; Did we feel th' Effects of's Sword and Flames Saw Virgins ravish'd, heard the Cries of Dames; When Soldiers sack their Towns, destroy their Men, Cut off their Children, scarce spare One in Ten; Could we but see Rome's Priests converting France With Arguments from Gun, Sword, Spear, and Lance; And then reflect that this had been our Doom, Could James the Just have paid his Von's to Rome, We would not grumble at the Tax we pay To keep such Monstrous Tyranny away, But should, that William might live ever pray.