Page:Fables for the Frivolous.djvu/108

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been validated.

FABLES FOR THE FRIVOLOUS

Two things there are, no doubt you know,
To which a fox is used:
A rooster that is bound to crow,
A crow that's bound to roost,
  And whichsoever he espies
  He tells the most unblushing lies.

"Sweet fowl," he said, "I understand
You're more than merely natty,
I hear you sing to beat the band
And Adelina Patti.
  Pray render with your liquid tongue
  A bit from 'Götterdämmerung.'"

This subtle speech was aimed to please
The crow, and it succeeded:
He thought no bird in all the trees
Could sing as well as he did.
  In flattery completely doused,
  He gave the "Jewel Song" from "Faust."

82