Fables of John Gay

"Repair thy wit--repair thy wit! Truly, you are devoid of it. Think you that fairies would change places With sons of clay and human races-- In one point like to you alone, That we are partial to our own; For neither would a fairy mother Exchange her baby for another; But should we change with imps of clay, We should be idiots--like as they."

FABLE IV.

JOVE'S EAGLE, AND MURMURING BEASTS.

As Jove once on his judgment-seat, Opened the trap-door at his feet; Up flew the murmurs of creation, Of every brute that had sensation. The Thunderer, therefore, called his Eagle, Which came obedient as a beagle,-- And him commanded to descend, And to such murmurs put an end. The eagle did so--citing all To answer the imperial call.

He spoke: "Ye murmurers declare What are these ills which trouble air?-- Just are the universal laws. Now let the dog first plead his cause."

A beagle answered him: "How fleet The greyhound's course, how nerved his feet! I hunt by scent,