"Whilst following close, but the other day, The steps of two Asses, who foolishly Fed each other with flattery, I heard the one to the other say, Is it not, sir, a shame and disgrace That the tribe of mankind, that perfect race, Should profane our dignified name, by denoting As asses all those that are stupid or doting? And even has ventured such lengths as to say, That, when mortals speak nonsense, they utter a bray! 'Tis pleasant, forsooth, to perceive how mankind Dream they're above us, and yet are so blind. No, no, let their orators silent remain, For they are the brayers, and fools in grain; But with man let us cease one another to bother: 'Tis enough that we quite comprehend one another. I will only here add that you have but to speak, To make larks seem hoarse, and the blackbird to squeak.' 'These qualities, sir,' then the other replied, 'In yourself, in the fullest perfection, reside.' And, having thus spattered each other with praise, They trot far and wide to repeat the same craze; Each fondly in hope, like a couple of crows, That a caw shall come back for the caw he bestows. But this trait is not asinine only, I own, For I myself many great people have known Who would gladly, instead of my-lording each other, Have said, each to each, 'My Imperial Brother!' But I've spoken too long, and will only request That this secret be hid in your Majesty's breast: Since your Majesty wished me some trait to divulge, Which would show him how those who in self-love indulge Become objects of scorn; it would take me too long To show also, now, how it leads to worse wrong." Thus spoke the Monkey false by nature; But it has still in doubt remained If he the other point explained; Your Monkey is a knowing creature, And knows it is not fortunate To be too truthful with the great. FABLE CCXV. THE WOLF AND THE FOX.