This said, the Shepherd in a neighbouring wood Collected fagots, which he sold for food, And shared it kindly with his clever friends, Before their talents had attained their ends, Or, by long fasting, they were forced to go And air their talents in the world below. From this adventure we, I think, may learn That for life's daily needs much learning is not wanted; But that to every man the power to earn Food by his labour has been freely granted. FABLE CCVII. THE OLD MAN AND THE THREE YOUNG MEN. An Old Man, planting a tree, was met By three joyous youths of the village near, Who cried, "It is dotage a tree to set At your years, sir, for it will not bear, Unless you reach Methuselah's age: To build a tomb were much more sage; But why, in any case, burden your days With care for other people's enjoyment? 'Tis for <i>you</i> to repent of your evil ways: To care for the future is <i>our</i> employment!" Then the aged man replies-- [Illustration: THE OLD MAN AND THE THREE YOUNG MEN.] "All slowly grows, but quickly dies. It matters not if then or now You die or I; we all must bow, Soon, soon, before the destinies. And tell me which of you, I pray, Is sure to see another day? Or whether e'en the youngest shall Survive this moment's interval? My great grandchildren, ages hence, Shall bless this tree's benevolence. And if you seek to make it plain That pleasing others is no gain, I, for my part, truly say I taste this tree's ripe fruit to-day, And hope to do so often yet. Nor should I be surprised to see-- Though, truly, with sincere regret-- The sunrise gild your tombstones three." These words were stern but bitter truths: For one of these adventurous youths, Intent to seek a distant land, Was drowned, just as he left the strand; The second, filled with martial zeal, Bore weapons for the common weal, And in a battle met the lot Of falling by a random shot. The third one from a tree-top fell, And broke his neck.--The Old Sage, then, Weeping for the three Young Men, Upon their tomb wrote what I tell. FABLE CCVIII. THE GODS AS INSTRUCTORS OF JUPITER'S SON.