Lion planned a foray on a foe; Held a war-council; sent his heralds out To warn the Animals he'd strike a blow; Soon all were ready to help slay and rout-- Each in his special way. The Elephant, To bear upon his back the baggage and supplies, And right, as usual. Then the Bear, to plant The flag upon the breach. The Fox's eyes Brighten at thought of diplomatic guile. The Monkey hopes to dupe with endless tricks. "But send away the Asses," says, meanwhile, Some courtier, in whose mind the fancy sticks; "They're only stupid. Pack off, too, the Hares." "No, not so," said the King; "I'll use them all: Our troop's imperfect, if they have no shares. The Ass shall be our startling trumpet call; The Hare is useful for our courier, mind." Prudent and wise the King who knows the way For every subject fitting task to find. Nothing is useless to the wise, they say. FABLE CI. THE ASS IN THE LION'S SKIN. A donkey donned a Lion's hide, And spread a panic, far and wide (Although the Donkey, as a rule, Is not a fighter, but a fool). By chance, a little bit of ear Stuck forth, and made the matter clear. Then Hodge, not relishing the trick, Paid off its author with a stick. While those who saw the Lion's skin, But little dreamed who lurked within, Stood open-mouthed, and all aghast, To see a Lion run so fast. This tale applies, unless I err, To many folks who make a stir; And owe three-fourths of their success To servants, carriages, and dress. FABLE CII. THE EAGLE AND THE OWL. The Eagle and the Owl had treaty made-- Ceased quarrelling, and even had embraced. One took his royal oath; and, undismayed, The other's claw upon his heart was placed: Neither would gulp a fledgling of the other. "Do you know mine?" Minerva's wise bird said. The Eagle gravely shook her stately head, "So much the worse," the Owl replied. "A mother Trembles for her sweet chicks--she does, indeed. It's ten to one if I can rear them then. [Illustration: THE EAGLE AND THE OWL.]