_Now those to whom the world is new_ _Are wonder-struck at every view;_ _And the marauder finds his match,_ _When he is caught who thinks to catch._ [Illustration: THE RAT AND THE OYSTER.] The Hog, the Goat, and the Sheep. A goat, a sheep, and porker fat, All to the market rode together. Their own amusement was not that Which caused their journey thither. Their coachman did not mean to "set them down" To see the shows and wonders of the town. The porker cried, in piercing squeals, As if with butchers at his heels. The other beasts, of milder mood, The cause by no means understood. They saw no harm, and wonder'd why At such a rate the hog should cry. "Hush there, old piggy!" said the man, "And keep as quiet as you can. What wrong have you to squeal about, And raise this dev'lish, deaf'ning shout? These stiller persons at your side Have manners much more dignified. Pray, have you heard A single word Come from that gentleman in wool? That proves him wise." "That proves him fool!" The testy hog replied; "For did he know To what we go, He'd cry almost to split his throat; So would her ladyship the goat. They only think to lose with ease, The goat her milk, the sheep his fleece: They're, maybe, right; but as for me This ride is quite another matter. Of service only on the platter, My death is quite a certainty. Adieu, my dear old piggery!" The porker's logic proved at once Himself a prophet and a dunce. _Hope ever gives a present ease,_ _But fear beforehand kills:_ _The wisest he who least foresees_ _Inevitable ills._ [Illustration: THE HOG THE GOAT AND THE SHEEP.] The Rat and the Elephant.