The most delectable HISTORY OF Reynard the Fox: Newly Corrected and purged from all grossness in Phrase and matter.  
As also augmented and enlarged with sundry excellent Morals and Expositions upon every several Chapter.  
London Printed by J. Bell at the East-End of Chrst-Church. 1656.   

The Epistle to the Reader.  
THou hast here (courteous and friendly Reader) the Pleasant and delightful History of Reynard the Fox, which in an humble and low stile (couched to the natures of the Beasts it treateth on) beareth in it much excellent Morality and hidden wisdom, worthy both thy regard in reading and thine application in the course and commercement of thy life and actions: for the aim at which it bendeth, is the overthrow of vice, and the advancement of the good and virtuous.  
Now forasmuch as hitherto it hath flown into the World (like Sibilla's lose papers) covered with much obscurity and darkness: I have for thy more ease and contentment, to every several Chapter annexed the Morals and Expositions of such dark places, as may hold thy judgement in seeking to wind out a labyrinth so dark and curious? A labour which I doubt not but will prove both pleasant and wholesome, since as a friendly guide it will keep thy meditations from wand'ring astray, and as a pleasant companion hold thee with such delightful discourse, that thy Journey therein will neither be long nor irksome: at which end if it arrive with a fair safety as it is faithfully and truly intended, I have the sum of my wishes, and thyself the prosperity, both of this and other men's endeavours.  
Farewell.   

The Pleasant HISTORY OF Reynard the Fox.  

CHAP. 1. How the Lion Proclaimed a solemn Feast at his Court, and how Isegrim the Wolf and his Wife, and Curtise the Hound, made their first complaints of Reynard the Fox.  
ABOUT the Feast of Pentecost (which is commonly called Whitsuntide) when the woods are in their lusty hood and gallantry, and every Tree clothed in the green and white livery of glorious leaves, and sweet smelling blossoms, and the earth covered in her fairest mantle of Flowers, which the Birds with much ●oy entertain with the delight of their harmonious songs.  
Even at this time and entrance of the lusty Spring, the Lion the Royal King of beasts, to celebrate this holy Feast-time with all triumphant ceremony, he intended to keep open Court at his great Palace of Sanden, and to that end (by solemn Proclamation) makes known over all his Kingdom, to all Beasts whatsoever, that upon pain to be held contemptuous, every one should resort to that great celebration: so that within few days after (at the time prefixed) all Beasts both great and small came in infinite multitudes to the Court, only Reynard the Fox excepted, who knew himself guilty in so many trespasses against many Beasts, that his coming thither must needs have put his life in great hazard and danger.  
Now when the King had assembled all his Court together, there were few Beasts found but made their several Complaints against the Fox, but especially Isegrim the Wolf, who being the first and principallest complaint, came with all his Lineage and kindred, and standing before the King, said in this manner.  
When the Wolf had spoken these words, there stood by him a little Hound whose name was 〈…〉, made likewise a grievo●us complaint, 〈…〉 inst the Fox, saying, that in the extreme 〈…〉 inter when the frost was most violent he being half 〈◊〉 and detained from all manner of ●r●y, had no more 〈◊〉 left him to sustain his life, than one poor Pudding: which Pudding (he said) Reynard had most unjustly taken away from him.  
But the Hound could hardly let these words ●ie from his lips, when with a fiery and angry countenance, in sprang Tibert the Cat amongst them, and falling down before the King, said; My Lord the King, I must confess the Fox is here grievously complained upon, yet were other Beasts 〈…〉 searched, each would have enough to do for his own clearing. Touching the complaint of Curtise the Hound, it was an offence committed many years ago, and though I myself complain of no injury, yet was the Pudding mine, and not his; for I got it by night out of a Mill when the Miller lay asleep, so that if Curtise could challenge any share thereof, it must be from mine interest.  
When Panther heard these words of the Cat, he stood forth and said, Do you imagine, Tibert, that it were a just or a good course that Reynard should not be complained upon? why the whole world knows he is a murderer, a ravisher, and a thief, and that indeed he loveth not truly any creature, no not his Majesty himself, but would suffer his Highness to lose both Honour and renown, so that he might thereby attain to himself but so much as the leg of a fat Hen: I shall tell you what I saw him do yesterday to Kyward the Hare, that now standeth in the King's protection, he promised unto Kyward that he would teach him his Credo, and make him a good Chaplain, he made him come sit between his legs, and sing and cry aloud Credo, Credo: my way lay thereby, and I heard the song: then coming nearer, I found that Mr. Reynard had left his first note and song, and began to play his old deceit for he had caught Kyward by the throat, and had I not at that time come, he had taken his life also, as you may see by the fresh wound no Kyward at this present. O my Lord the King, if you suffer this unpunished, and let him go quit that hath thus broke your peace, and profaned your dignity, and doing no right according to the judgement of your Laws, your Princely children many years hereafter shall bear the slander of his evil. Certainly Panther (said Isegrim) you say true, and it is fit they receive the benefit of justice, that desire to live in peace.  

The Moral.  
Howsoever a vicious man persuades himself to escape punishment, by absenting himself from the presence of the Magistrate; yet he deceiv● himself, and by his contempt animals his enemies to be more bold in their complaints against him, as appears here by the Wolf; who, although worse than the Fox, yet doth he with his absence, & the seasonableness of the time for free liberty of speech, ●ake opportunity to say the worst he can against him, and by his example makes others of fear full nature to do the like. And therefore let no wise man shrink from his just trial, but either defend his own innocence, or else submit to mercy for dead men and absent, find slack Advocate;    

CHAP. 2. How Grimbard the Brock, spoke for Reynard before the King.  
Have you forgot how you cheated him with the Plaise which he threw down from the Cart, when you followed aloof for fear? yet you devoured the good Plaise alone, and gave him no more but the great bones, which you could not eat yourself: the like you did with the fat flitch of Bacon, whose taste was so good, that yourself alone did eat it up, and when my Uncle asked his part, you answered him with scorn, Fair young man thou shalt have thy share: but he got not any thing, albeit he won the Bacon with great fear and hazard; for the owner came, and caught my kinsman in a Sack, from whence he hardly escaped with life: many of those injuries hath Isegrim done to Reynard, which I beseech your Lordship's judge if they be sufferable: again, he complaineth that my kinsman hath wronged him in his wife: 'tis true, and I confess Reynard hath lain with her, yet it was seven years before Isegrim did wed her, and if my uncle out of courtesy did her a pleasure, what was that to him? she was soon healed of the sore: nor ought he to complain of any thing not belonging to him; wisdom would have concealed it, for what credit gets he by the slander of his wife, especially when she is unagrieved?  
Now comes Kayward the Hare with his complant, which to me seemed but a tri●●e, for if he will learn to read, and read not his lesson aright, who will blame the Schoolmaster Reynard if he give him due correction? for if scholars be not beaten and chastised, they will never learn.  
Lastly complaineth Curtise, that he with great pain had gotten a Pudding in the winter, being a season in which victuals are hard: me thinks silence would have become him better for he had stolen it: and Malè quefisti, & malè perdidisti, ' its fit it was evil lost, 'twas evil won, who can blame Reynard to take stolen goods from a thief; It is reason that he which understands the Law, and can discern right, being of great and high birth as my kinsman is, do right unto the law Nay had he hanged up Curtise when he took him with the manner, he had offended none but the King, in doing justice without leave; wherefore for respect to his Majesty, he did it not, though he reaped little thanks for his labour: alas how do those complaints hurt him; mine Uncle is a Gentleman, and a trueman, nor can he endure falsehood, he doth nothing without the counsel of the Priest: and I affirm, since my Lord the King proclaimed his peace he never thought to hurt any man: for he eateth but once a day, he liveth as a Recluse, he chastiseth his body, and weareth a shirt of hair cloth: it is above a year since he eat any flesh (as I have been truly informed by them which came but yesterday from him) he hath forsaken his Castle Malepardus, and abandoned all royalty, a poor hermitage retains him, hunting he hath forsworn, and his wealth he hath scattered, living only by arms and good men's charities; doing infinite penance for his sins, so that he is become pale and lean with praying, and fasting, for he would feign be with God.  
Thus whilst Grimberd his nephew stood preaching, they perceived coming down the hill unto them, stout Chantecleere the Cock, who brought upon a Beer a dead Hen, of whom Reynard had bitten off the head, and was brought to the King to have knowledge thereof.  

The Moral.  
Vice is never without his advocate, and be a man never so lewd, yet he shall still find one or other to plead for him; especially where there is either greatness or wealth in the offender, or any alliance of blood to those in favour, as appears here by the Brock, which pleads for the Fox; first, because he was of his kin, and next he was rich, & able to pleasure him; lastly, here is to be observed, the insinuation of the Advocate, excusing the Fox's faults with a new form of penitence, cloaking the 〈…〉 done with zeal and hypocrisy, than the which no king 〈◊〉 brings a good man to belief and forgiveness.    

CHAP. 3. How Chantecleere the Cock complained of Reynard the Fox.  
Most merciful and my great Lord the King, vouchsafe, I beseech you to hear our complaint, and redress these injuries which Reynard hath unjustly done to me, and my children that here stand weeping; for so it is (most mighty Sir) that in the beginning of April, when the weather was fair, I being then at the height of my pride and glory, because of the great stock and lineage I came of, and also in that I had eight valiant sons, and seven fair daughters, which my wife had hatched, all which were strong and fat, and walked in a yard well walled and fenced round about, wherein they had in several sheds for their guard, six stout Mastiff Dogs, which had torn the skins of many wild Beasts; so that my children feared not any evil which might happen unto them: But Reynard, that false and dissembling traitor, envying their happy fortune because of their safety, many times assailed the walls, and gave such dangerous assaults, that the Dogs divers times were let forth unto him, and hunted him away; yea once they light upon him, and bitten him, and made him pay the price for his theft, and his torn skin witnessed, yet nevertheless he escaped, the more was the pity; yet we were quiet of his trouble a great while after: at last he came in the likeness of a Hermit, and brought me a Letter to read, sealed with your Majesty's Seal, in which I found written, that your Highness had made peace throughout all your Realm, and that no manner of Beasts or Fowl should do injury one to another, affirming unto me that for his own part he was become a Monk, or cloistered Recluse, vowing to perform a daily penance for his sins; showing unto me his beads, his books, and the hair shirt next to his skin, saying in humble wise unto me, Sir Chanticleer, never henceforth be afraid of me, for I have vowed never more to eat flesh.  
I am now wa●ed old, and would only remember my soul, therefore I take my leave: for I have yet my noon and my evensong to say: which spoke, he departed, saying his Credo as he went, and laid him down under a Hauthorn: at this I was exceeding glad, that I took no heed, but went and clocked my children together, and walked without the Wall, which I shall even rue; for false Reynard lying under a bush came creeping betwixt us and the gate, and suddenly surprised one of my children, which he thrust up in his male and bore away to my great sorrow, for having tasted the sweetness of our flesh, neither hunter, nor hound, can protect or keep him from us: Night and day he waits upon us with that greediness, that of fifteen of my children, he hath left me but four unslaughtred, and yesterday Coppel my daughter (which here lieth dead on the Bier) was (after her mother) by a kennel of hounds rescued from him; This is my complaint, and this I leave to your Highness' mercy to take pity of me, and the loss of my fair children.  

The Moral.  
When wicked men cannot compass their wickedness by strong hand, or violence against their enemies; then they study deceit and shifts to entangle them: of all which none is so powerful, as the show of Religion: for that working upon the easy belief of the simple, makes them many times ship themselves into the rough Seas, whence there is no help but shipwreck, as the foolish Cock did to believe the subtle Fox. Also in this a man may see, that though an evil man may be now and then excused of some faults, yet still his sins will so dog him at the heels, that in the end he shall be discovered, and lie to open Law and punishment; as now it happened to the Fox, notwithstanding, the brock's excuse and maintenance.    

CHAP. 4. The King's answer to the Cock's complaint, and how they sung the Dirge.  
TPen spoke the King, Sir Grimbard, hear you this of your uncle the Recluse? he hath fasted and prayed well: well, believe it, if I live a year, he shall dear abide it: as for you Chantecleere, your complaint is heard, and shall be cured: to your daughter that is dead, we will give her the right of burial, and with solemn Dirges bring her to the earth with worship; which finished, we will consult with our Lords, how to do you right and justice against the murder. Then began the Placedo Domine, with all the verses belonging to it, which are too many to recite: and as soon as the Dirge was done, the body was entered, and upon it a fair Marble stone laid, being polished as bright as glass; in which was engraven in great letters this inscription following, Coppell Chanticleers daughter, whom Reynard the Fox hath slain, lieth here buried; mourn thou that re●●est it, for her death was unjust and lamentable. After 〈◊〉 the King sent for his Lords and wisest Counsellore, to 〈◊〉 how this foul murder of Reynards' might be punished. In the end it was concluded that Reynard should be sent for, and without all excuse to appear before the King, to answer these trespasses should be objected against him and that this message should be delivered by Bruine the Bear: to all this the King gave consent, & calling him before him said sir B●ui●● it is our pleasure that you deliver this message, yet in the delivery thereof have great regard to yourself, for Reynard is full of policy, and knoweth how to dissemble, flatter, and betray, he hath a world of snares to entangle you withal, and without great exercise of judgement, will make a scorn and mock of the best wisdom breathing. My Lord (answered sir Bruine) let me alone with Reynard, I am not such a truant in discretion, to become a mock to his knavery: and thus full of jollity the Bear departed: if his return be as jovial, there is no fear in his well-spéeding.  

The Moral.  
Here those that excuse bad actions, may see how such offences return to disgrace, because evil men's vices being disclosed, the excuse are their shames that make them; as it happened now to the Brock. Also in the Lion may be seen the effects of a good disposition, which is expressed in the honours and rights of Burial done to the Hen, which is a 〈◊〉 of satisfaction for the grief her kin endured; In the Bear's willingness to fetch the Fox, is expressed how apt a malicious nature is to be employed in any thing that may offend his adversary, and how commonly such employments miscarry.    

CHAP. 5. How Bruine the Bear sped with Reynard the Fox.  
 
THe next morning away went Bruine the Bear in quest of the Fox, armed against all plots of deceit whatsoever, and as he came through a dark Forest, in which Reynard had a by-path, which he used when he was hunted, he saw a high mountain, over which he must pass to go to Malepardus: for though Reynard have many houses, yet Malepardus is his chiefest and most ancient Castle, and in it he lay both for defence and ease: Now at last when Bruine was come to Malepardus, he found the gates close shut, at which after he had knocked (sitting on his tail) he called aloud, Sir Reynard, are you at home? I am Bruine your kinsman, whom the King hath sent to summon you to the Court, to answer many foul accusations exhibited against you, and hath taken a great vow, that if you fail to appear to this summon, that your life shall answer your contempt, and your goods and honours shall lie confiscate at his Highness' mercy: Therefore fair kinsman, be advised by your friend, and go with me to the Court to shun the danger that else will fall upon you. Reynard lying close by the gate (as his custom was for the warm Su●ne sake) hearing those words, departed into one of his holes, for Malepardus is full of many intricate and curious Rooms, (which labyrinth-wise he could pass thorough, when either his danger, or the benefit of any prey required the same) where meditating a while with himself how he might counterplot and bring the Bear to disgrace (whom he knew loved him not) and himself to honour at last he came forth and said, Dear Uncle Bruine, you are exceeding welcome, pardon my slowness in coming; for at your first speech I was saying my Evensong: and devotion must not be neglected: believe me he hath done you no good service, nor do I think him which hath sent you this weary and long journey, in which your much sweat and toil, far exceeds the worth of the labour: certainly had you not come, I had to morrow been at the Court of mine own accord, yet at this time my sorrow is much lessened, in as much as your counsel at this present may return me double benefit: Alas Cousin, could his Majesty find no meaner a messenger than your noble self to employ in these trivial affairs? truly it appears strange to me: especially since next his royal self, you are of greatest renown both in Blood and Riches: for my part I would we were both at Court, for I fear our journey will be exceeding troublesome: for to speak troth, since I made my abstinence from Flesh, I have eaten such strange new meats, that my body is very much distempered, and swelleth as if it would break. Alas dear Cousin (said the Bear) what meat is that which maketh you so ill? Uncle (answered he) what will it profit you to know? the meat was simple and mean; we poor men are no Lords you know, but eat that for necessity, which others eat for wantonness: yet not to delay you; that which I eat was honey-combs, great, full, and most pleasant which compelled by hunger, I eat too unmeasurably, and am thereby infinitely distempered. Ha' (quoth Bruine) honey-combs? do you make such slight respect of them. Nephew? why it is meat for the greatest Emperor in the world: Fair Nephew; help me but to some of that honey, and command me whilst I live; for one little part thereof, I will be your servant everlastingly. Sure said the Fox (Uncle) you but jest with me: but just with you (replied Bruine) beshrew my heart then: for I am in that serious earnest, that for one lick thereat you shall make me the faithfullest of all your kindred. Nay (said the Fox) if you be in earnest, then know I will bring you where so much is, that ten of you shall not be able to devour it at a meal, only for your love sake, which above all things I desire, Uncle, Not ten of us (said the Bear?) it is impossible: for had I all the honey betwixt Hibla and Portugal, yet I could in a short space eat it all myself. Then know Uncle (quoth the Fox) that near at hand here dwelleth a Husbandman named Lauferr, who is master of so much honey, that you cannot consume in seven years, which for your love and friendship sake I will put into your safe possession. Bruine mad upon the honey, swore, that to have but one good meal thereof, he would not only be his faithful friend, but also stop the mouths of all his adversaries. Reynard smiling at his easy belief, said, If you will have seven tun, Uncle, you shall have it. These words pleased the Bear so well, and made him so pleasant, that he could not stand for laughing.  
Well thought the Fox, this is good fortune, sure I will lead him where he shall laugh more measurably: and then said, Uncle, we must delay no time, and I will spare no pain for your sake, which for none of my kin I would perform. The Bear gave him many thanks, and so away they went, the Fox promising him as much honey as he could bear, but meant as many strokes as he could undergo: in the end they came to Lanferts house, the sight whereof made the Bear rejoice. This Lanfert was a stout and lusty Carpenter, who the other day had brought into his yard a great Oak, which (as their manner is) he began to clear, and had struck into it two wedges, in such wise, that the clost stood a great way open: at which the Fox rejoiced much, for it was answerable to his wish, so that with at laughing countenance he said to the Bear, Behold now dear Uncle, and be careful of your self, for within this tree is so much honey, that it is unmeasurable, try if you can get into it, yet good Uncle eat moderately: for albeit the combs are sweet and good, yet a surfeit is dangerous, and may be troublesome to your body, which I would not for a world, since no harm can come to you, but must be my dishonour, Sororw not for me, Nephew Reynard said the Bear) nor think me such a fool, that I cannot temper mine appetite. It is true my best Uncle, I was too be so, I pray you enter in at the end, and you shall find your desire. The Bear with all hast entered the tree, with his two feet forward, and thrust his head into the clost, quite over the ears: which when the Fox perceived; he instantly ran and pulled the wedges out of the tree, so that he locked the Bear fast therein, and then neither flattery nor anger availed the Bear, for the Nephew had by his deceit brought the Uncle into so false a prison, that it was impossible by any Art to free himself of the same. Alas, what profiteth now his great strength and valour? why they were both causes of more vexation: and finding himself destitute of all relief, he began to howl and bray, and with scratching and tumbling to make such a noise, that Lanfert amazed, came hastily out of his house, having in his hand a sharp hook, whilst the Bear lay wallowing and roaring within the tree, which the Fox a far off seeing, he said to the Bear in scorn, Is the honey good (Uncle) which you eat: how do you? eat not too much I beseech you: pleasant things are apt to surfeit, and you may hinder your journey to the Court: when Lanfert cometh (if your belly be full) he will give you drink to digest it, and wash it down your throat: and having thus said, he went towards his Castle. But by this time, Lanfert finding the Bear fast taken in the tree: he ran to his neighbours, and desired them to come into his yard, for there is a Bear fast taken there. Which being noised thorough all the Town, there was neither man, nor woman, nor child, but ran thither, some with one weapon, and some with another; as Goads, Rakes, Broom-staves, or what they could gather up: the Priest had the handle of the Cross; the Clerk, the holy-water sprinkled and the Priest's wife Dame ●ullock with her distaff, for she was then spinning: nay, the old Beldames came, that had ne'er a tooth in their heads. This army put Bruine into a great fear, being none but himself to withstand them, and hearing the clamour of the noise which came thundering upon him, he wrestled and pulled so extremely, that he got out his head, but left behind him all the skin, and his ears also: insomuch that never creature beheld a fouler or more deformed Beast; for the blood covering all his face, & his hands leaving the claws and skin behind them, nothing remained but ugliness; 'twas an ill market the Bear came to, for he lost both motion and sight, feet and eyes: but notwithstanding this torment, Lanfert the Priest, and the whole Parish came upon him, and so be●cudgell'd him about his bodie-part, that it might well be a warning to all his misery, to know that ever the weakest shall still go most to the walls: This the Bear found by experience, for every one exercised the height of their furies upon him; even Houghlin with the crooked leg, and Ludolf with the long broad nose, the one with a leaden Mall, and the other with an iron whip, all to be-lashed poor sir Bruine, not so much but sir Bertolf with the long fingers, Lanfert and Ortam did him more annoyance than all the rest, the one havink a sharp Welsh-hook, the other a crooked staff well leaded at the end, which he used to play at stab-ball withal, there was Birkin, and Armes-Ablequake, Bane the Priest with his staff, and dame Jullocke his wife, all these so belaboured the Bear, that his life was in great danger: the poor Bear in this Massacre sat and sighed extremely, groaning under the burden of their strokes, of which Lanferts were the greatest, and thundered most dreadfully, for Dame Podge of Casport was his Mother, & his Father was Marob the Stéeple-maker a passing stout man when he was alone: Bruine received of him many showers of stones, till Lanferts Brother rushing before the rest with a staff, struck the Bear in the head such a blow, that he could neither hear nor see, so that awaking from the astonishment, the Bear leapt into the River adjoining, through a cluster of wives there standing together, of which he threw divers into the water, which was large and deep, amongst whom the Parson's wife was one, which the Parson seeing how she floated like a Sea-mew, he left striking the Bear, and cried to the rest of the company, help, oh help? Dame Jullocke is in the water, help both men and women, for whosoever saves her, I give free pardon of all their sins and transgressions, and remit all penance imposed whatsoever: this heard, every one left the Bear to help Dame Jullocke, which as soon as the Bear saw, he cut the stream and swum away as fast as he could, but the Priest with a great noise pursued him, crying in his rage, Turn villain, that I may be revenged of thee, but the Bear swum in the strength of the stream, and suspected not his calling, for he was proud that he was so escaped from them: only he bitterly cursed the Honey-trée, and the Fox, which had rot only betrayed him, but had made him lose his hood from his face, and his gloves from his fingers: in this sort he swum some three miles down the water, in which time he grew so weary, that he went on the land to get ease, where blood trickled down his face, he groaned, sighed, and drew his breath so short, as if his last hour had been exspiring: Now whilst these things were in doing, the Fox in his way home stole a fat Hen, and threw her into his male-and running thorough a by path that no man might perceive him, he came towards the River with infinite joy: for he suspected that the Bear was certainly slainl; therefore said to himself, My fortune is as I wished it, for the greatest enemy I had in the Court is now dead, nor can any man suspect me guilty thereof, but as he spoke these words, looking towards the River, he espied where Bruine the Bear lay resting, which struck his heart with grief, and he railed against Landfert the Carpenter, saying, Silly fool that thou art, what mad man would have lost such good venison, especially being so fat and wholesome, and for which he took no pains, for he was taken to his hand; any man would have béns proud of the fortune which thou neglectest. Thus fretting and chiding, he came to the River, where he found the Bear all wounded and bloody, of which Reynard was only guilty yet in scorn he said to the Bear, Mon Sire, Dieu vous garde. O thou foul red villains, said the Bear to himself, what impudence is like this? But the Fox went on with his speech, and said, What Uncle? have you forgot any thing at Lanfert●, or have you paid him for the honeycombs you stole? if you have not, it will redound much to your disgrace, which before you shall undergo, I will pay him for them myself: sure the honey was excellent good, and I know much more of the same price; G●d Uncle, tell me before I go, into what order do you mean to enter, that you wear this new fashioned Hood? will you be a Monk, an Abbot, or a Friar? surely he that shaved your crown, hath cropped your ears, also your foretop is lost, and your gloves are 〈◊〉; fie sloven, go not bare-handed, they say you can sing ●eccavi rarely. These taunts made Bruine mad with rage; but because he could not take revenge, he was content to let him talk his pleasure: then after a small rest, he plunged again into the River, and swum down the stream; and landed on the otherside, where he began with much grief to meditate how he might get to the Court; for he had lost his ears, his talons, and all the skin off his feet, so that he had a thousand deaths followed him; he could not go, and yet of necessity he must move, that in the end compelled by extremity, he set his buttocks on the ground, and tumbled his body over and over; so by degrees tumbling now half a mile, and then half a mile, in the end he tumbled to the Court; where divers beholding his strange manner of approach, they thought some prodigy had come towards them, but in the end the King knew him, and grew angry, saying, It is Sir Bruine my servant, what villains have wounded him thus, or where hath he been that he brings his death thus along with him? O my dread Sovereign Lord the King, (cried out the Bear) I complain me grievously unto you: behold how I am massacred, which I humbly beseech you revenge on that falls Reynard, who for doing your royal pleasure, hath brought me to this disgrace and slaughter. Then said the King, How dared he do this? now by my crown I swear I will take revenge, which shall make the traitors tremble: whereupon the King sent for all his Counsel, and consulted, how, and in what sort to prosecute against the Fox; where it was generally con●●●ed, that he should be again summoned to appear and answer his trespasses; and the party to summon him they appoints to be Tibert the Cat, as well for his gravity as wisdom: all which pleased the King well.  

The Moral.  
In this encounter between the Fox and the Bear, is expressed the dissimulation of two wicked persons, each plotting to do the other mischief: wherein though the wisest commonly get the victory at first, yet the just cause in the end prevaileth. In the Bear's greediness to eat honey, is expressed, the lascivious in constancy of a lose and unrestrained nature, that for a minutes enjoying of their own delights, quite forget the business and cares they have in hand. In the Fox is expressed the cunning of wisdom, which ever cast out (to lose natures) those baits of delight, which being swallowed with greediness, do ever choke the swallower, as appeareth by the Bear, who is not only wounded, and in danger of his life, but also made a mock and scorn to his enemies. Also by the ernc●ty used on the Bear by the common people, is showed, how when an ill man is once snared in his vices, how every one of what degree soever from the highest to the lowest, are ready to prosecute and revenge themselves for the ●lls they have received.    

CHAP. 5. How the King sent Tibert the Cat for Reynard the Fox.  
THen the King called for Sir Tybert the Cat, and said to ●him Sir Tybert, you shall go to Reynard, and say to him the second time, and command him to appear, and answer his offences; for though he be cruel to other beasts, yet to you he is courteous; assure him if he fail at your first summons, that I will take so severe a course against him, and his posterity, that his example shall terrify all offenders. Then said Tibert the Cat, My dread Lord, they were my foes which thus advised you, for there is nothing in me that can force him either to come, or tarry: I beseech your Majesty send some one of greater power, I am little and feeble: besides if noble Sir Bruine, that is so strong & mighty, could not enforce him, what will my weakness avail? The King replied, It is your wisdom, Sir Tibert, I employ, and not your strength, and many prevail with Art, when violence returns with lost labour. Well, said the Cat, since it is your pleasure, it must be accomplished, hea●en make my fortune better than my heart presageth. This Tibert made things in readiness, and went towards Mallepardus, and in his journey, he saw come flying towards him one of Saint Martin's Birds, to whom the Cat, cried aloud, Hail gentle bird, I beseech thee turn thy wings and fly on my right hand: but the bird turned the contrary way, and flew on his left side; then grew the Cat very heavy, for he was wise and skilful in Augurism, and knew the signs to bs ominous, nevertheless (as many do) he armed himself with better hope: and went to Mall●pardus, where he found the Fox standing before the Castle gates, to whom Tibert sai●●. Health to my fair Cousin Reynard: so it is that the King by me summo as you to the Court in which if you fail or defer time, there is nothing more assured unto you, than a cruel, and a sudden death. The Fox answered, Welcome dear cousin Tibert, I obey your command, & wish my Lord-the King infinite days of happiness, only let me entreat you to rest with me to night, and take such cheer as my simple house affordeth, and to morrow as early as you will, we ●ill ●o towards the Court, for I hare no kinsm●n I trust so dearly as yourself. Here was with me the other day the trech●rous Knight Sir Bruine the Bear, who looked upon me with that tyra●nou cruelty, that I would not for the wealth of an Empire hazarded my person with him, but my dear cousin, with you I will go, were a thousand sicknesses upon me. Tibert replied, You speak like a noble Gentleman, and me thinks it is best now to go forward, for the Moon shines as bright as day. Nay dear cousin (said the Fox) let us take day before us, so may we encounter with our friends the night is full of danger, and suspicions. Well, said the Cat, if it be your pleasure I am content, what shall we cat? Reynard said truly my store is small, the best I have is a honeycomb too pleasant and sweet, what think you of it? Tibert replieth, it is meat: I little respect, and seldom eat: I had rather have one Mouse, than all the honey-in Europe. A mouse said Reynard) why my dear cousin here dwelleth a Priest hard by, who hath a Bar●e by his house so full of mice, that I think half the Wains in the Parish are not able to bear them. O dear Reynard (quoth the Cat) do but lead me thither, and make me your servant for ever: why (said the Fox) but love you mice so exceedingly? Beyond expression (quoth the Cat) why a mouse is beyond Venison, or the delicatest cates on Prince's Tables: therefore conduct me thither, and command my friendship in any matter: had you slain my father, my mother, and all my kin, I would clearly forgive you.  

The Moral.  
By the sending of the Cat to fetch the Fox, is expressed the care of Governors, that when they have been deceived by the prde & ostentation of such as they did employ, and thought discreet; that then they seek cut those that are known wise, and employ them; because wisdom: is even circumvented by a greater wisdom, in the Cats much loathness to go is expressed, the unwilingness a wise man hath to meddle in dangerous matters, especially when they hold the party with whom they have to do, of a reach far beyond them; yet when authority commands, they must obey, though never so many dangers attend.    

CHAP. 7. How Tibert the Cat was deceived by Reynard the Fox.  
THAN said Reynard, Sure you do you but jest. No by my life, said the Cat, Well then (quoth the Fox) if you be in earnest, I will so work that this night I will fill your belly; 'tis not yossible, said the Cat: then follow me said the Fox: for I will bring you to the place presently: thus away they went with all speed to the Priest's Barn, which was well walled about with a mu●●-wall, where but the night before the Fox ha● broken in, and stole from the Priest an exceeding fat Hen; at which the Priest was so angry, that he had set a grin or snare before the hole, to catch him at his next coming, which the false Fox knew perfectly, and therefore said to the Cat Sir Tibert, creep in at this hole, and believe it you shall not tarry a minute's space, but you shall have more mice than you are able to devour: hark, you may hear how they peep: when your belly is full, come again, and I will stay and wait for you here at this hole, that to morrow we may go together to the Court: but good Cousin stay not too long, for I know, my wife will hourly expect us. Then (said the Cat) think you I may safely enter in at this hole? these Priests are wise, and subtle and couch their danger oft close, that rashness is soon overtaken. Why cousin Tibert (said the Fox) I never saw you turn coward before: what man, fear you a shadow? The Cat ashamed at his fear, sprang quickly in at the hole, but was presently caught fast by the neck in the Grin, which as soon as the Cat felt and perceived, he quickly leapt back again: so that the snare running close together, he was half strangled, so that he began to struggle, and cry out, and exclaim most piteously: Reynard stood before the hole and heard all, at which he infinitely rejoiceth, and in great scorn said, Cousin Tibert, love you Mice? I hope they be well fed for your sake; knew the Priest or Martinet of your feasting, I know them of so good disposition, they would bring you sauce quickly; me thinks you sing at your meat, is that the Court fashion; if it be, I would Isegsim the Wolf were coupled with you, that all my friends might be feasted together: but all this whlie the poor Cat was fast, and mewed so piteous, that Martinet leapt out of his bed, and cried to his people? Arise, for the thief is taken that had stolen our Hens: With these words the Priest unfortunately risen up, and awaked all in his house, crying, the Fox is taken, the Fox is taken: and arising stark naked, he gave to Jullock his wife an offering candle to light, and then came first to Tibert, he smote him with a great staff, and after him many other: so that the Cat received many deadly blows, and the anger of Martinet was so great, that he struck out one of the Cat's eyes which he did, to second the naked Priest, thinking at one blow to dash out the Cat's brains: but the Cat perceiving his death so near him, in a desperate mood he leapt between the Priest's legs, and with his claws and teeth so fastened on his genitors, that in all the great Turk's Seraglio, there was not a clearer Eunuch: which when Dame Jullock his wife saw, she cried out and swore, she had rather have lost the whole Offerings of seven years, than that one poor little morsel: and withal erst that ever the Grin was invented, and calling Martinet, See, my Son, this thy Father's delight, and my jewel, but it is ●ow spoiled, to his shame, and my utter loss for ever: for howsoever he be cured, yet to me he can never more be comfortable. All this while Reynard stood before the hole, and saw what passed, and laughed so extremely, that his body was ready to break, saying to Dame Jullock, Fie woman, do not torment yourself so, the Priest hath lost but one stone, you may yet receive due beneviolence: there is many a Chapel in which but one Bell rings. Now whilst the Fox thus scoffed the Priest's wife, the poor Priest fell down in a swound: so that every man left the Cat, to revive the Priest: which whilst they were doing, the Fox returned home to Malepardus, for he imagined the Cat was past all hope to escape: but the poor Cat seeing all her ●ors busy about the Priest, he presently began to gnaw and 〈◊〉 the cord till he had sheared it quite asunder in the 〈…〉 one he leapt out of ●he hole, and went roaring & tumbling ●●ke the Bear; to the Kings Court. But before he got thither, it was fair day, and the Sun being risen, he entered the Court, like the pitifullest beast that ever was beheld, For by the Fox's craft his body was beaten and bruised, his bones ●●ivered and broken; one of his eyes lost, and his skin 〈◊〉 and mangled. This when the King beheld, and saw Tibert so pitifully mangled, he grew infinitely angry, and took counsel once more, how to revenge the injuries upon the Fox. After same consultation, Grimbard the Brock, Reynards' Sister's son, said to the rest of the King's counsel, My good Lords, though my Uncle were twice so evil as these complaints make him, yet there is remedy enough against his mischiefs: therefore it is fit you do him justice as to a man of his rank, which is, he must be the third time summoned, and then it he appear not, make him guilty of all that is laid against him. Then the King demanded of the Brock, whom he thought fittest to summon him or who would be so desperate to hazard his hands, his ears, nay his life with one so tyrannous and irreligious? Truly (answered the Brock) if it please your Majesty, I am that desperate person, who dare adventure to carry the message to my most subtle Kinsman, if your highness but command me.  

The Moral.  
By the Fox ensnaring of the Cat is expressed, now when wise men wil● 〈◊〉 their enemies, or give credit to reconciled Friends, they evermore miscarry in their designs; and therefore every wise man should so temper his affections, that he grow no● fond of any thing in his enemy's power; how agreeable soever ●● be either with his nature, or his power. For the bai●s of an enemy are only gilded pills, which are fair to look on, but most bitter to, taste. By the mischief which the Priest received, ●s showed, that they which harm watch, harm each, and that the trap which men now and then set for others, bri●gs hurt to them selves,    

CHAP. 8. How Grimbard the Brock was sent to bid the Fox to the Court.  
THen said the King, Go Grimbard, for I command you● yet take heed of Reynard, for he is subtle and malicious. The Brock thanked his Majesty, and so taking humble leave, went to Mallepardus, where he found Reynard Ermelin his wife, sporting with their young whelps; then having saluted his Uncle and his Aunt, he said: Take heed fair Uncle, that your absence from the Court, and not more mischief to your cause, than the offence doth deserve: believe it, it is high time you appear to the Court, since your delay doth beget but more danger and punishment: the complaints against you are infinite, and this is your third time of Summons; Therefore your wisdom may tell you, that if you delay but one day further, there is not left to you or yours any hope of mercy, for within three days your Castle will be demolished, your kindred made slaves, and yourself exempted for a public example. Therefore my best Uncle, I beseech you recollect your wisdom, and go with me presently to the Court. I doubt not but your discretion shall excuse you, for you have passed thorough many as eminent perils and made your foes ashamed, whilst the Innocence of your cause hath born you spotless from the Tribunal. Reynard answered; Nephew, you say true, and I will be advised and go with you, not to answer offences, but in that I know the Court stands in need of my counsel; the King's mercy I doubt not, if I may come to speak with his Majesty, though mine offences were ten times doubled, for I know the Court cannot stand without me, and that shall his highness understand truly: though I know I have many enemies, yet it troubles me not, for mine innocence shall awaken their injuries, and they shall know that in high matters of State and policy, Reynard cannot be missing: they may well harp upon things, but the pith and ground must come from my relation: it is the envy of others hath made me leave the Court, for though I know their shallowness cannot disgrace me, yet may their multitudes oppress me: nevertheless (Nephew) I will go with you to the Court, and answer for myself, and not hazard the welfare of my Wife and Children, the King is too mighty; and though he do me injury, yet will I bear it with patience. This spoke he turned to his wife and said Dame Ermelin have care of my children, specially Reunikin my youngest son for he had much of my love, and I hope will follow my steps; also rossel is passing hopeful, and I love them entirely; therefore regard them, and if I escape, doubt not but my love shall requite you. At this leave taking Ermelin wept, and her children howled; for their Lord and victualler was gone, and Malepardus left unprovided.  

The Moral.  
In the sending of the Brock to fetch the Fox, is showed, that when the vi●ious cannot be overtaken and brought to answer, than it is meet to use their own weapons against them, and with policy, which can no way be better done then by employing their kindred, and such as they most dearly affect to persuade them, because Affection is ever a prevailing Orator.    

CHAP. 9 Mow Reynard shrove him to Grimbard the Brock.  
WHEN Reynard and Grimbard had gone a good way on their journey, Reynard stayed, and said. Dear Nephew, blame me not if my heart be full of care, for my life is in great hazard, yet to blot out my sins with repentance, and to cast off the burden, give me leave to shrive myself unto you; I know you are holy, and having received penance for my sin, my soul will be quiet. Grimbard bade him proceed. Then said the Fox, Confi●ebor tibi pater. Nay said the Brock, if you will shrive to me, do it in English, that I may understand you: Then said Reynard, I have grievously offended against all the Beasts that live, and especially mine Uncle Bruine the Bear, whom I lately massacred; and Tybert the Cat whom I ensnared in a grin: I have trespassed against Chanteclere and his Children, and have devoured ma●y of them; nay the King hath not been quit of my malice, for I have slandered him and his Queen, I have betrayed Isegrim the Wolf. and called him Uncle, though no part of his blood ran in my veins. I made him ● Monk of Elmane, where I became also one of the order, only to do him open mischief I made him bind his soot to the bell-rope to teach him ring, but he p●al had like to have cost him his life, the men of the parish beat and wounded him so sore: after this I taught him to catch fish, but he was sound beaten therefore, and feeleth the stripes at this instant. I led him to steal Bacon at a rich Priest's house, where he fed so extremely: that not being able to get out, where he got in, I raised all the Town upon him: and then went where the Priest was set at meat with a fat Hen before him: which Hen I snatched away, so that the Priest cried out, Kill the Fox, for never man saw thing so strange, that the Fox should come into my house, and take my meat from before me.  
This is a boldness beyond knowledge: and with these words he threw his knife at me, but he missed me, and I ran away whilst he pursued me crying. Kill the Fox, Kill the Fox, and after him a world of people, whom I led to the place where Isegrim was, and there I let my Hen fall, for it was too heavy for me (yet much against my will) and then s●ringing through a hole I got into safety. Now as the Priest took up the Hen, he espied Isegrim, and then cried out, Strike friends, strike, here is the Wolf, by no means let him escape us: Then the people came all together, with clubs, and staves, and with a dreadful noise, giving the poor Wolf many a deadly blow, and some throwing stones after him, hit him such mortal blows on the body, that the Wolf fell down as if he had been dead, which perceived, they took him and dragged him by the héels over stocks and stones, and in the end threw him into a Ditch without the Village, and there he lay all night, but how he got thence I know not. Another time I led him to a place, where I told him were seven Hens and a Cock, set on a perch, all lusty and fat, and hard by the place stood a false door, on which we climbed: then I told him if he would creep in at the door, he should find the Hens. Then Isegrim with much joy went laughing to the door, and entering in a little, and groping about, he said, Reynard, you abuse me; for here is nothing: then replied I, Uncle, they are further; and if you will have them, you must adventure for them: those which used to sit there, I myself had long since; at this the Wolf going a little further I gave him a push forward, so that he fell down into the house, and his fall was so great, and made such a noise, that they which were asleep in the house, awaked, and cried, that something was fallen down at the trap-door; whereupon they arose, and lighted a candle, espying him, they beat and wounded him to death. Thus I brought the Wolf to ●a●y hazards of his life, more than I can now either remember or reckon, which as they come to my mind, I will reveal to you hereafter. I have also grievously offended against Dame A●sewinde his Wife of which I must repent me for it was highly to her dishonour. Uncle, said Grimbart, I understand you not, you make your shrift unperfect; for you say you have offended, but declare not in what. Pardon me, Nephew, I know you hate to hear dishonour of Women: the truth is, I have lain with her: Thus have I told you my wickedness now order my penance as shall seem fit in your discretion, Grimbart was both learned and wise, and therefore broke a rod from a tree, and said, Nephew, You shall three times strike your body with this rod, and then lay it down upon the ground, and spring three times over it without bowing of your legs, or stumbling: then shall you take it up, and kiss it get fly, in sign of meekness and obedience to your penance: which do●e, you are absolved of your sins committed to this day, for I pronounce unto you clear remission. At this the Fox was exceeding glad, and then Grimbart said unto him: See that henceforth Uncle you do good works, read your Psalter, got● Church, fast vigils, keep holy days, give alms, and leave your sinful and evil life, your theft and your treason, and then no doubt you shall attain mercy. The Fox promised to perform all this, and so they went together towards the Court, but a little besides the way as they went, 〈◊〉 a religious house of Nuns, where many Geese, Hens, and Capons went without the wall: and as they went talking the Fox led Grimbert out of his right way to that place, and finding the Pullat●● walking without the Barn, amongst which was a fat young Capon, which straye● a little from his fellows: at which he suddenly leapt and caught him by the feathers, which flew about his ears; but the Capon escaped: which Grimbert seeing, said, Accursed man, what will ye do, will you for a silly Pullet fall again into all your sins? mischief itself would not do it: to which Reynard answered Pardon me dear. Nephew, I had forgotten myself, but I will ask forgiveness, and mine eye shall no more wander: and then they turned over a little Bridge: but the Fox still glanced his eye towards the Pullen, and could by no means refrain it; for the ill that was bred in his bones, still stuck to his flesh, and his mind carried his eyes that way as long as he could see them: which the Brock noting, said, Fie, dissembling Cousin, why wander your eyes so after the Pullen? The Fox replied, Nephew, you do me injury so to mistake me, for mine eyes wandered not, but I was saying a Pater Noster for the souls of all the Pullen and Geese which I have slain and betrayed, in which devotion you hindered me. Well, said Grimbart, it may be so, but your glances are suspicious. Now by this time they were come into the way again, and made haste towards the Court, which as soon as the Fox saw, his heart quaked for fear: for he knew well the crimes he was to answer, for they were infinite and heinous.  

The Moral.  
The shrist of the Fox showeth, that when evil men are in danger, than they ever fain most religion, and by a show of a penitence, win pity from those that dive not into the depth of their deceit & knavery, where by though they be never so evil, yet they get a good name, & steal opinion of the multitude. By the absolution which the Brock gave the Fox, is showed, how easily an honest simple man may be brought to believe a knaves penance, & how apt they are to forgive tresuppasteson feigned sorrow, which indeed should not be done without a more strict & severe examination. The Foxes leading the Brock by the Monestary and taking the, Capon, showeth, that where wickedness is rooted and made as it were a habit, that there notwithstanding all hypocrisy, I will still flash out, and a knave will be a knave in despite of all persuasions and good counsel.    

CHAP. 10. How the Fox came to the Court, and how he excused himself.  
AS soon as it was bruited in the Court, that Reynard the Fox, and Grimbart his kinsman were arrived there, every one from the highest to the lowest, prepared himself to complain of the Fox: at which Reynards' heart quaked, but his countenance kept the old garb, and he went as proudly as ever he was wont with his Nephew through the street, and came as gallantly into the Court, as if he had been the King's son, and as clear from trespass, as the most innocent whatsoever: and when he came before the chair of State in which the King sat, he said. Heaven give your majesty glory and renown above all the Princes of the earth: I assure your Highness there was never King had a truer servant than myself have been to you, and yet am, and so will die: Nevertheless (my dread Lord) I know there be many in this Court that seek my confusion, if they could win belief in your Majesty; but you scorn the slanders of malice, and although in these day's flatterers have the most rooms in Princes Courts, yet with you it is not so, nor shall they reap any thing but shame for their labour. But the King cut him short at these words, and said, Peace traitorous Reynard, I know your dissimulation, and can expound your flattery, but both shall now fail you: think you I can be caught with the music of your words? no, it hath too often deceived me: the Peace which I commanded and swore unto, that have you broken. And as he would have gone forward, Chaunticleere crying out, O how have I lost this noble Peace? Be still Chanticleer (said the King) and then he proceeded. Thou Devil among good ones, with what face canst thou say thou invest me, and seest all those wretched creatures ready to disprove thee, whose very wounds yet spit bloody defiance upon thee: and for which believe thy dearest life shall answer. In nomine Patris, etc. said the Fox, My dread Lord, if Bruins crown be bloody what is that to me? If your Majesty employed him in a message, and he would neglect it to steal Honey at the Carpenter's house, where he received his wounds, how shall I amend it: If revenge he sought, why did he not take it himself? he is strong and puissant, it was not for to be looked for at my wickedness. As for Tibert the Cat (whom I received with all friendship if he against my will or advice, will steal into the Priest's Barn to catch Mice, and there lose his eyes, nay his life, wherein is mine offence? or how become I their guardian? O my dread Lord, you may do your royal pleasure, and however mine innocence plead, yet your will may adjudge me to what death contents you: I am your vassal, and have no support but your mercy: I know your strength and mine own weakness, and that my death can yield you but small satisfaction, yet whatsoever your will is, that to me shall be most acceptable. And as ●e thus spoke, Bellio the Ram stepped forth, and his Ewe-dame Oreway and be sought the King to hear their complaint, with them Bruine the Bear, and all his mighty lineage: And Tibert the Cat, Isegrim the Wolf, Kyward the Hare, and Panther the Boar, the Camel and Bruel the Goose, the Kid and the Colt, Bauldwin the Ass, Bortel the Bul, and hamel the Ox, the Weasel, Chantecleere the Cock, and Pattler with all her children. All these with one entire noise cried out against the Fox, and so moved the King with their complaints, that the Fox was taken and arrested.  

The Moral.  
In the Foxes appearing at the Court is showed, that when a malefactor is brought before the Justice, that then is the fit time for all men that have been injured, to utter their complaints, because then only redress is to be had. In the Lion is expressed the lawfulness of Justice, and how terrible it is to every offender, especially such as have the guilt of Conscience within them. The Foxes bold behaviour shows, that impudent male factors, when they are called in question, make audacity their chief guard, and by railing against their adversaries, do seek to extenuate the looseness of their offences, but truth and Justice will not be hoodwinked.    

CHAP. 11. How the Fox was Arrested and judged to death  
UPON this Arrest a Parliament was called, and every voice went that Reynard should be executed: notwithstanding he answered every objection severally, though great Art was used both in one and the other; to the wonderful admiration of all that heard him But witnesss examined, and every proof made pregnant, the Fox was condemned & judgement was given, that he should be hanged till his body were dead. At which sentence the Fox cast down his head, for all his jollity was lost, and no flattery nor no words now prevailed. This done, Grimbart his Nephew, and divers others near him in blood, (which could not endure to see him die) took their leave of the King & departed from the Court. When the King roted what gallant young Gentlemen departed thence, all sad and weeping, being near of the Fox's blood and alliance, he said to himself, It behoveth us to take good and mature counsel; though Reynard have some faults, yet he hath many friends, and more virtues. As the King was thus thinking, the Cat said to the Bear: Sir Bruine, and you Sir Isegrim, Why are you slow in this Execution? the Even is almost come, and here be marry bushes and hedges, if he escape and quit himself of this danger, his subtlety is so great, that not all the Art in the World shall ever again entangle him: If you mean to execute him, then proceed, for before the Gallows can he made, it will be dark night. At these words Isegrim remembering himself, said, There is a pair of Gallows near at hand (and with that fetched a deep sigh) which the Cat noting, said: Are you afraid sir Isegrim, or is this execution against your mind? you may remember it was only his work, that both your brethren were hanged: and sure had you judgement, you would thank him for the same, and not thus stand trifling time. But Isegrim, half angry answered, Your anger puts out though eye of your reason, yet had we a halter that would fit his neck, we would soon dispatch him. Reynard that had been silent a great while, said, I beseech you shorten my pain; Sir Tibert hath a Cord strong enough, in which himself was hanged at the Priest's house, when he bitten off the Priest's genitors, besides he can climb well and swift: O let him be mine Executioner, for it neither becometh Isegrim nor Bruine thus to do to their Nephew: I am sorry I live to see it. But since you are set to be my hangmen, play your parts, and delay not: go before Bruine, and lead my way; follow Isegrim, and beware I escape not: you say well said Bruine, and it is the best counsel I have heard you give. So forth they went, and Isegrim and all his friends guarded the Fox, leading him by the neck, and other parts of his bodies when the Fox felt this usage, he was dismayed, yet said: O why do you put yourselves (my best kinsmen) to this pain, to do me hurt? believe it I could well ask you forgiveness, though my pai●es be pleasant unto you? yet well I know, did my Aunt your wife understand of my trouble, she would for old affection sake not see me thus tormented. But I am subject to your will, and can endure your worst malice: as for Bruine and Tybert, I leave my revenge to justice, and with you the reward of Traitors, if you do not to me the worst of your powers: I know my worst fortune, and death can come but once unto me; I wish it were passed already, for to me it is no terror: I saw my Father die, and how quickly he vanished, therefore the worst of death is familiar unto me. Then said Isegrim, let us go, for his curse shall not light on me by delaying: So he on one side and Bruine on the other, led the poor Fox to the gallows; Tybert running before with the halter, hoped to he revenged of his wrong formerly received. When they were come to the place of Execution, the King and Queen, and all the rest of the Nobility, took their place to see the Fox die. Then Reynard full of sorrow, and busily bethinking himself how he might escape that danger and how to enthral and disgrace his proud enemies, and also how to draw the King on his party, saying to himself, Though the King & many others be offended with me, as they have reason, for I have throughly deserved it, nevertheless yet I hope to live to be their best friend. During this meditation the Wolf said; Sir Bruine, now remember your injuries, take your revenge in a full measure, for the day is come we wished for; Tibert, ascend quickly and bring the rope to the Gallows, making a running nooz, for this day you shall have your will of your enemy: and good sir Bruine take heed he escape not, whilst I myself raise up the Ladder. When all things were prepared, the Fox said, Now may my heart be heavy, for Death stands now in all his horror before me, and I cannot escape: my dread Lord the King, and you my Sovereign Lady the Queen, and you my Lords that stand to behold to see me die, I beseech you grant me this charitable Boon; that I may unlock my heart before you, and clear my soul of her burdens, so that hereafter no man may be blamed for me? which done, my death will be easy, and the assistance of your prayers will raise my soul to heaven.  

The Moral.  
By the violence of the Bear, the Wolf, and the Cat, in pursuing the Fox to death, and making themselves executioners, is showed the great malice of great persons against their enemies, and such from whom they have received mischief, in which they will many times rather hazard their, honours, than their revenges, so blind is wrath, and deformed, it makes men that are clothed therewith. The Fox's patience and mild temper shows, that when men are in extremity, they must make use of all their virtues, especially meekness. for that soon est doth insisinuate with men's natures, and draws forth pi●y, whereas roughness ever increaseth mischief.    

CHAP. 12. How Reynard made his Confession before the King.  
EVery creature now took compassion on the Fox, and said his request was small, beseeching the King to grant it: which was done, And then the Fox thus spoke: Help me, Hearen: for I see no man here whom I have not offended: yet was this evil no natural inebriation in me, for in my Youth I was accounted as virtuous as any breathing: this know, I have played with the Lambs all the day long, and took delight in their pretty bleating, yet at last in my play I bitten one, and the taste of the Blood was so sweet, that since I could never forbear it; This liquorish humour drew me into the Woods amongst the Goats, where hearing the bleating of the little Kids, I slew one of them, and after, two more, which slaughter made me so hardy, that then I fell to murder Hens, Geese, and other Pullen. And thus my crimes increased by custom, and fury so possessed me, that all was fish which came to my net. After this in (the Winter season) I met with Isegrim whereas he lay hid under a hollow tree, and he unfolded unto me how he was my Uncle, and laid the Pedigree down so plain, that from that day forth we became fellows and companions: Which knot of friendship I may ever curse, for than began the flood of our thefts and slaughters; he stole the great things, I the small; he murdered Nobles, I the meanest Subjects: and in all our actions his share still was ever the greatest: when he got a Ram, a Calf, or Weather, his fury would hardly afford me the horns to pick on: nay when he had an Ox, or a Cow, after himself, his wife and his seven children were served, nothing remained to me but the bare bones to pick on. This I speak not in that I wanted (for it is well known I have more plate, jewels, and coin, than twenty Carts are able to carry) but only to show his ingratitude. When the King heard him speak of this infinite treasure and riches, his heart grew inflamed with a desire thereof: and he said Reynard, where is that treasure you speak of? The Fox answered, My Lord, I shall willingly tell you, for it is true, the wealth was stolen, and had it not been stolen in that manner as it was, it had cost your Highness your life (which heavens I beseech keep ever in their protection). When the Queen heard that dangerous speech, she started, and said; What dangers are these you speak of, Reynard? I do command you upon your souls health, to unfold these doubtful speeches, and to keep nothing concealed which concerns the life of my dread Lord. The Fox with a sorrowful and sad countenance replied to the Queen, O my dread Sovereign Lady, at what infinite ease were I, if I might dfe at this present? but gracious Madam, your conjuration and the health of mine own soul so prevaileth with me, that I will discharge my conscience, and yet speak nothing but what I will make good with the hazard of my damnation. 'Tis true, the King should have been piteously murdered by his own people, and I must confess by those of my dearest kindred, whom I am unwilling to accuse, did not the health of mine own soul, and the fealty to the King command the contrary: The King much perplexed at this discovery, said: Is this true Reynard, which you protest? the Fox answered, Alas, my dread Lord, you see the case wherein I stand, and how small a sand is left in my poor glass to run: Can your Majesty imagine I will now dissemble? what can the whole world avail me, when my soul perisheth? and at that he trembled and looked so pitifully, that the Queen had great compassion of him, and humbly besought the King for the safety of his own Royal person to take some pity of the Fox and to command all his subjects to hold their peace, and keep silent till he had spoke the uttermost of his knowledge: all which was presently done, and the Fox proceeded in this manner: Since it is the pleasure of my sovereign Lord the King, and that his royal life lieth in the balance with my present death, I will freely and boldly unfold this capital and foul treason, and in the relation not spare any guilty person for any respect whatsoever; whether it be blood, greatness, or authority: Know then, my dread sovereign Lord the King, that my father by a strange accident, digging in the ground, found out King E●mericks treasure; being a mass infinite and innumerable, of which being possessed, he grew so proud and haughty: that he held in scorn all the Beasts of the Wilderness, which before had been kinsmen and companions; at last he caused Tybert the Cat to go into the  Forest of Arden to Bruine the Bear, and to tender to him his homage and fealty; saying, If it would please him to be King, he should come into Flaunders, where he would show him means how to set the Crown upon his head. Bruin was glad of this Embassage (for he was exceeding ambitious and had long thirsted for sovereignty) and thereupon came into Flaunders, where my Father received him nobly. Then presently he sent for his wife Grimbart my Nephew, and for Isegrim the Wolf, and for Tybert the Cat: then these five coming between Gaun● and the village called Elf, they held a selemne Council for the space of a whole night: in which by the assistance of the Devil, and the strong confidence of my father's riches, it was there concluded, that your Majesty should been forthwith murdered; which to effect, they took a solemn oath in this manner: The Bear, my Father, Grimbart, and the Cat, laying their hands on Isegrims Crown, swore first to make Bruine their King, & to place him in the Chair of Estate at Acon, and to set the Imperial Diadem on his head: and if by any of your Majesty's blood and alliance they should been gainsaied, that then my Father with his treasure should hire those which should utterly chase and root them out of the Forest. Now after this determination held and finished, it happened that my Nephew Grimbart being on a time high flown with wine, he discovered this damnable plot to dame Slopard his wife, commanded her upon her life to keep secret the same: but she forgotfull of her charge, disclosed it in confession to my wife, as they went a Pilgrimage over an Heath, with like conjuration of secrecy: but she (women-like) contained it no longer then till she met with me, and gave me a full knowledge of all that passed; yet so, as by all means I must keep it secret too: for she had sworn by the three Kings of Cullen never to disclose it: and withal, she gave me such assurance by certain tokens, that I right well scund all was true which she had spoken, insomuch, that the very affright thereof made my hair stand upright, and my heart became like Lead, cold and heavy in my bosom, which made me call to mind the story of the Frogs, who being free without subjection, complained to Jupiter, and desired they might have a King to rule and govern over them, and he presently sent them a Stork, which eat and devoured them up: ●● that by his tyranny they became the most miserable of all creatures; then they complained again to Jupiter for redress, but it was then too late; for they that could not be content with their freedom, must now of necessity suffer in thraldom.  
Thus I feared it might happen with us, and thus I sorrowed for your Majesty, although you little respect my grieving: I know that ambition of the Bear, and his tyranny is so great; that should the Government come into his hands, (as heaven forbidden) the whole Commonwealth will he destroyed? Besides, I know your Majesty of so royal and Princely birth: so mighty, so gracious, and so merciful, that it had been a damnable exchange, to have seen a ravenous Bear to sit in the throne of a royal Lion; for there is in the Bear, and in his generation, more prodigal looseness and inconstancy, then in any Beast whatsoever. But to proceed, from this sorrow, I began to meditate how I might undo my Father's false and wicked conspiracies, who sought to bring a base Traitor and a slave into the throne Imperial: for I well perceived as long as he held the Treasure, there was a possibility of deposing your Majesty, and this troubled my thought exceedingly, so that I laboured how I might find out where my Father's Treasure was hid, and to that end I watched and attended night and day in the Woods, in the Bushes, and in the open fields: nay, in all places wheresoever my father laid his eyes, there was I ever watching and attending. Now it happened on a time as I was laid down flat on the ground, I saw my father come running out of a hole, and as soon as he was come out, he gazed round about him, to see if any discovered him; then seeing the coast clear, he stopped the hole with sand, and made it so even, smooth and plain, that no curious rye could discern a difference betwixt it and the other earth: and where the print of his foot remained, that with his tail he stroked over; and with his mouth so smoothed it that no man might perceive it: and indeed that and many other subtleties, I learned of him there at that instant: when he had thus finished away he went towards the village about his private affairs: then went I presently towards the hole, and notwithstanding all his subtlety, I quickly found it out, than enters I the Cave, where I found that innumerable quantity of treasure, which cannot been expressed: which sound, I took Ermelin my wife to help me, and we ceased not day nor night, with infinite great toil and labour, to carry and convey away this treasure to another place, much more convenient for us, where we laid it safe from the search of any creature. Now during the time that my wife and I were thus employed, my father was in consultation with the rest of the traitors about the death of the King: in which consultation it was concluded, that Isegrim the Wolf should travail over all the Kingdom, and promise to all Beasts that would take wages, and acknowledge Bruine for their sovereign, and defend his title, a full years pay beforehand. And in this journey my Father accompanied him, carrying letter's Patents signed to that purpose, little suspecting that he was robbed of the wealth which should supply his treason: When this negotiation was finished between Elve and Soame, and a world of valiant soldiers raised against the beginning of the next spring: then they returned to Bruine and his consorts, to whom they declared the many perils they had escaped in the Dukedom of Saxony: where they were pursued by Huntsmen and Hounds, so as they hardly escaped with life: after this relation they shown Eruine the muster-rolls, which pleased him exceeding much, for there was of Isegrims lineage about twelve hundred sworn to the actions, besides the Bears own kindred, the Foxes, the Cats, and the Dassens, all which would be in readiness upon an hours warning. All this I found out (I praise Heaven) by perfect intelligence: now things being brought to this perfection, my father went to his Cave of treasure: but when he found it open, spo●●'d and ransacked, it is not in me to express the infinite agony and sorrow he fell into, that grief converting to madness, and madness to desperation: suddenly he went to the next tree and hanged himself.  
Thus by my Art only was the Treason of Bruine defeated, for which I now suffer: from hence sprang all misfortune as thus: These foul traitor's Bruine and Isegrim, being of the King's privatest Counsel, and sitting in high and great Authority, tread upon me poor Reynard, and work my disgrace: notwithstanding for your Majesty's sake, I have lost my natural Father. O my dread Lord! what is he, or who can tender you a better affection, thus to lose himself to save you? The King and Queen having great hope to get this inestimable treasure from Reynard, took him from the Gibbet, and entreated him to unfold where this great treasure was. But the Fox replied, O my Lord, shall I make mine enemies my heirs? shall these Traitors which take away my life, and would devour yours, be possessed of the good I enjoy? No, that's a madness I'll never die guilty of. Then said the Queen, fear not Reynard, the King shall save your life, and grant you pardon, and you shall henceforth swear Faith and true Allegiance to his Majesty. The Fox answered: Dearest Madam, if the King out of his Royal nature will give credit to my truth and forgive my former offences; there was never King so rich as I will make him. Then the King staying the Queen, said: Madam, will you believe the Fox? know you not that it is his natural quality to lie steal, and deceive? The Queen answered, My dear Lord, now you may boldly believe him, for howsoever in his prosperity he was full of errors, yet now you may see he is changed? why he spareth not to accuse his own father, nay Grimbard his dearest Nephew and kinsman; had he dissembled, he might have laid his imputations on other Beasts, and not on those he loveth most entirely. Well Madam (said the King) you shall at this time rule me, and all the offences of the Fox I will clearly pardon: yet with this Protestation, That if ever again he offend in the smallest crime whatsoever, that not only himself, but his whole generation I will utterly root out of my Dominions. The Fox looked sadly when the King spoke thus (but was inwardly most infinitely glad at his heart, and said, My dread Lord, it were a huge shame in me, should I speak any untruths in this great presence. Then the King taking a straw from the ground, pardoned the Fox of all his trespasses which either he, or his Father had ever committed: If the Fox now began to smile, it was no wonder, the sweetness of life required it: yet he fell down before the King and Queéns, and humbly thanked them for their mercy, protesting that for that favour he would make them the richest Princes in the world. And at these words the Fox took up a straw, and proffered it unto the King, and said to him; My dread Lord, I beseech your Majesty to receive this pledge as a surrender unto your Majesty of all the Treasure that the great King Ermerick was master of, with which I freely infeoff you out of my mere voluntary and free motion. At these words the King received the straw, and smiling, gave the Fox great thanks for the same. But the Fox laughed outright to think of the abuse. From that day forward no man's counsel prevailed with the King as the Foxes; which the Fox seeing, said to the King: My gracious Lord! you shall understand, that at the Westside of Flanders there standeth a Wood called Husterloe, near which runneth a River named Crekenpit this is a Wilderness so , and unpassable, that hardly in all the year there cometh either man or woman in the same. In it I have hid this Treasure, whither I would have your Majesty and the Queen to go, for I know none but yourselves whom I dare trust in so great a design: and when your Highness comes thither, you shall find two Birchin trees growing by the pit, into which you shall enter, and there you sha●l find the Treasure, which consisteth of the Coin, rich jewels, and the wealthy Crown which King Ermerick wore. With which Crown Bruine the Bear should have been Crowned, if his treason had succeeded according to his determination: there shall you see also many rich and costly precious stones, of which when you are possessed, then remember the love of your servant Reynard. The King answered, Sir Reynard, you must yourself help to dig for this Treasure, for else I shall never find it. I have heard named Paris, London, Acon, and Cullen, but Crekenpit I never heard of: therefore I fear you dissemble. The Fox blushed at those words, yet with a bold countenance he said: is your Majesty so doubtful of my faith? nay then I will approve my words by public testimony: and with that he called forth Kayward the Hare, from amongst the rest of the Beasts, and commanded him to come before the King, charging him upon his Faith and Allegiance which he bore to the King and Queen, to answer truly to such questions as he should ask him. The Hare answered, I will speak truth in all things, though I were sure to die for the same. Then the Fox said: Know you not where Crekenpit standeth? Yes said the Hare, I have known it any time this dozen years, it standeth in a wood called Husserloe, upon a vast and wide Wilderness, where I have in●ured much torment both of hunger and cold: Besides, it was there where Father Simony the Friar made false Coin, with which he supported himself and his fellows. Yet that was before I and Ring the Hound became companions. Well said the Fox, you have spoken sufficiently: go to your place again: so away went the Hare, Then said the Fox. My sovereign Lord the King, what say you now to my relation, am I worthy of your belief or no? the King said, Yes Reynard, and I beseech thee excuse my jealousies, it was my ignorance which did thee evil: therefore forthwith make preparation that we may go to the pit where this Treasure lieth. The Fox answered, Alas my Lord, do you imagine that I would said go with you: If it were so that I might go without your dishonour, which I cannot do; For you shall understand, (though it be my disgrace) that when Isegrim the Wolf in the Devil's name, would needs grow religious and turn a Monk: that then the permision of meat which was for six Monks; was too little for him alone. Whereupon he complained so pitifully unto me, that I commiserating his case, (being my kinsman) gave him counsel to run away, which he did: Whereupon I stand accursed, and excommunicated under the Pope's sentence: and am determined to morrow as soon as the Sun ariseth, to take my way towards Rome to be absolved, and from Rome I intent to cross the Seas to the Holy land; and will never return again to my native Country: till I have done so much good, and satisfied for my sins; that I may with honour and reputation attend on your Highness' person. The King hearing this, said: Since you stand accursed in the censures of the Church, I may not have you about me, and therefore I will at this time take Kayward the Hare, and some others with me to Crekenpit: and only command you Reynard, as you respect my favour, to clear yourself of his Holinesses curse. My Lord (said the Fox) it is the only reason of my going to Rome, neither will I rest night nor day, till I have gotten a full absolution: the course you take is good (said the King) go on and prosper in your intent and purpose.  

The Moral.  
By the Fox's confession and accusation of his enemies, is expressed a three fold subtlety in the Fox: First, by his voluntary confession of his faults, is showed his sorrow for the same, and the little hope he had of life, which piercing into the weak nature of the Queen, being a woman, and subject to pity, begot much compassion towards him. 2. The accusing of those whom he was known most assuredly to love, was a means to draw belief to that he spoke. 3. The engaging of the life of the King, and making the treason so foul, was a way to affright the Queen, and others of the tenderness of heart, and to bring his enemies into disgrace and scandal, where in the Fox showeth, that he which will slander, or will have any untruth believed: must first strengthen his opinion with pity, then get belief, and lastly exercise his mischief, against all which a wise man will shut his ears as the Lion did: If he be not over-tempted by those he loves, as the Lion was by the Queen and his own covetousness, in desiring that infinite treasure, than which there is nothing draws a man sooner to the belief of untruth and of falsehood: for what a man desires, that his own desire will make him credit, and where such credit is given, there commonly the wicked escape from punishment, as here it fell out with the Fox.    

CHAP. 13 How Reynard the Fox was honoured of all Beasts by the King's Commandment.  
AS soon as this conference was ended, the royal King mounted upon his high Throne made in manner of a scaffold, made of fair squared Stone, and then commanded a general silence amongst all his Subjects and that every one should take his place according to his Birth, or dignity in Office, only the Fox was placed between the King and the Qéen. Then said the King: Hear all you Noble men, Knights, Gentlemen, and others of inferior quality: This Reynard, one of the chief and supreme Officers of my household, whose offences had brought him to the least reckoning of his life; as being in the hands of the Law and justice: hath this day in requital of those Injuries, done that Noble and worthy, service to the State, that both myself and my Queen, stand bound to render him our best grace and favour. Therefore know, that for divers things best known unto ourselves, we have freely given pardon to all his offences, and restored back to him whatsoever to us was confiscate: therefore henceforth I command all of you, upon the pain and hazard of your dearest lives, that you fail not from this day forward to do all reverence and honour, not only to Reynard himself, but also to his Wife and Children, whersoever or wheresoever you shall meet them, whether by night, or by day: not that any one hereafter be so audacious, as to trouble mine ears with any more complaints of him: for his wickedness he hath cast behind him, and will no more be guilty of wrong doing: which to effect the better, to morrow very early he taketh his journey towards Rome, where from the Pope he will purchase a free Pardon and Indulgence for all his offences, and then on Pilgrimage to the Holy-land. This speech when Tisellin the Raven heard, he flew to Bruine, Isegrim, and Tibert, and said; Wretched creature! how are your fortunes changed? or how can you endure to hear these ttjoing? Why Reynard is now a Courtier, a Counsellor; nay the prime Favourite: his offences are forgiven, and you are all betrayed. And sold unto bondage. Isegrim answered, It is impossible Tisellin, nor can such a thing be suffered: do not deceive yourselves (said the Raven) for it is true as that now I speak it. Then went the Wolf and the Bear to the King; but the Cat stayed, and was so sore affrighted with the news, that to purchase the Fox's friendship again, she would not only have forgiven the exile received, but willingly have run into a second hazard. But now Isegrim with great majesty and pride tracing over the Fields, came before the King and Queen, and with most bitter and cruel words, inveighed against the Fox in such a passionate and impudent manner, that the King being infinitely moved with displeasure, caused the Wolf and the Bear to be presently arrested upon high Treason: which suddenly was done with all violence and fury, and they were bound hand and foot so fast, that they could neither stir nor move from the place where they were couched. Now when the Fox had thus enthralled and entangled them, he so laboured with the Queen, that he got leave to have so much of the Bear's skin, as would make him a large Scrip for his journey: Which granted, he wanted nothing but a strong pair of 's to defend his feet from the stones in his travel: Whereupon he said to the Queen; Madam, I am your Pilgrim; and if it would please your Majesty but to take it into your consideration, you shall find that Sir Isegrim hath a pair of excellent long lasting ones, which would you vouchsafe to bestow upon me, I would pray for your Majesty's soul in all my travel, above my charitable devotion. Also mine Aunt, dame Arsewinde, hath other two 's, which would your Majesty bestow upon me, I should be most infinitely bound to you, nor should you do to her any wrong, because she goes seldom abroad. The Queen replied, Reynard, I cannot perceive how you can want such 's, for your journey is full of labour and difficulty, both in respect of the stony mountains, and the gravelly ways, and thereforè you shall have (though it touch their life never so nearly) from each of them a pair of 's to accomplish and finish your journey.  

The Moral.  
By this honour done to the Fox, you may see, that when policy and wisdom get the upper hand of their enemies, it never resteth till it maketh known to the world the greanesse of their Conquest, both to express their ambition, as also to extenuate their crimes, and keep ●heir foes in awe with the goodly shows of new grace and favour. By the complaint of the Raven, is showed they jealousy and fear of the weaker sort. and how in their troubles they fly to the Heads of faction, and stir them (with their own safteys) to prevent evils. By the Wolf and the Bear's commitment, is showed, that when men complain in unseasonable times, they ever run themselves into most apparent and grievous mischiefs.    

CHAP. 14. How Isegrim and his wife Arsewind had their 's plucks off for Reynard to wear to Rome.  
AFter the Fox had made this petition, Isegrim was taken, and his 's pulled off in most cruel and violent manner, so that all the veins and sinews lay naked, nor durst the poor massacred Wolf either complain or resist. After he had been thus tormented, than dame Arsewinde his wife was used on the same manner on her hinder-féets, as her husband was on his fore-feets: which the Fox seeing, said to her in a scornful manner: Dear Aunt, how much an I bound to you, that takes all this pains for my sake? questionless you shall be a sharer in my Pilgrimage, and taken part in the pardon I shall bring from beyond the Seas by the help of your 's. Then Arsewinde (though speech were troublesome to hor) said: Well Sir Reynard, you have your will accomplished; yet heaven (I hope) will requite the mis-doer. This she said, but her husband and the Bear lay mute, for their wounds were grievous unto them: and surely had the Cat been there also, he had not escaped some extreme punishment. The next morning very early, Reynard causing his shoes to be well oiled, put them on, and made them as fit to his feet, as they were to the Wolus, and then went to the King and Queen, and said, My Lord, and Lady, your poor subject boweth himself before your Majesties, humbly beseeching your Highnessss, to deliver me my male and my staff blest, according to the custom due unto Pilgrims.  
This said, the King sent for Bellin the Ram, and commanded him to say solemn Mass before the Fox, and to deliver him his staff, and his male: but the Ram refused saying, My Lord, I dare not, for he hath confessed he is in the Pope's curse: and the King said, what of that; have not our Doctors told us, that if a man commit all the sins in the world, yet if he repent himself, be shriven, do penance, and walk as the Priests shall instruct him, that all is clearly forgiven him? and hath not Reynard done all this? then answered Bellin, Sir, I am loath to meddle herein, yet if your Majesty will bear me harmless against the Bishop of Pren●●lor, (my ordinary) and against the  of Loos-wind, and Rapiamus his Official, I will effect your commandment. At this the King grew angry, and said, I scorn to be beholding unto you: but when the Ram saw the King offended, he shook for fear, and ran presently to the Altar; and sung Mass, and used many ceremonies over the Fox, who gave little respect unto them, more than the desire he had to enjoy the honour. Now when Bellin the Ram had finished his Orisons, he presently hung about Reynards' neck his male, which was made of the Bear's skin, and put into his right foot a Palmer's staff: and thus being furnished of all things, he looked sadly upon the King, as if he had been loath to departed; and feigned to weep (though sorrow and he were never farther asunder) only his worst grief was, that all in that presence were not in the same case that the Bear and the Wolf were, yet he took his leave of them, and desired every one to pray for him, as he would pray for them: and then offering to departed, (for knowing his own knavery, he was very desirous to be gone.) The King said, Sir Reynard, I am sorry we must part thus suddenly: then said the Fox. There is no remedy my Lord, nor ought I be slow in so devout an action. Then the King took leave, and commanded all that were about him (but the Bear and the Wolf) to attend Reynard some part of his journey. O he that had seen how gallant and personable Reynard was, and how well his staff and his male became him: as also how fit his shoes were for his feet, it could not have chosen but have wirred in him very much laughter: yet the Fox carried himself outwardly very demurely: however inwardly he smiled at the abuses he had cast amongst them, especially to see his enemies, now his attendants, and the King, whom he had most palpably wronged with false lies, to be aiding to all his vain desires, did accompany him also as if they dad been his commpanions. But the Fox being now onward his way, he said to the King, I beseech your Majesty trouble yourself no further, but in respect of your ease, and the danger that might happen to your royal person, for you have arrested two capital Traitors, who if in your absence they should get at liberty, the danger were infinite, which might ensue thereon. And this said, he stood upon bis hinder feet, and entreated the bests that were in his company, and would be partakers of his pardon, that they would pray for him: which done, he departed from the King with an exceeding sad and heavy countenance: Then turning to Kayward the Hare, and Bellin the Ram, he said with a smiling countenance: My best friends, shall we part thus soon? I know your love's will not leave me yet: with you two I was never offended, and your conversations are agreeable to my nature: for you are mild, loving, and courteous, religious, and full of wise counsel, even such as myself was when I was first a Recluse: if you have a few green leaves, or a little grass, you are well content, as with all the bread and fish in the world, and you are temperate and modest: and thus with a world of such like flattering words, be enticed thes two, that they were content to go along with him.  

The Moral.  
In the spoiling the Bear of his skin, and the Wolf of his shoes, is showed, both the malice of a revengeful enemy, that never thinks his Foe weakened enough, till he be utterly ruined, as also the indiscretion of an over-angry nature, that cannot stay to give his wrongs advantage, but utters his spleen before he can either get relief or remedy. By the ceremonies done to the Fox, and the curiosity of the Ram, is showed, that in cases of indifferency, (where authority hath power to command) for any man to stand upon nice and puritanical terms with his superiors, doth not only breed reprehension but punishment. By the Fox's Hypocrisy, is seen the dissimulation of worldly men, and how to effect their mischief to the full height, they ever put on a most false cloak of Religion. By the general attendance of all the Beasts on the Fox, is showed, the flattery and baseness of many people, that never look how good a man is, but how great, and that favour and countenance, is ever enough to command at their services.    

CHAP. 15. How Kayward the Hare was slain by Reynard the Fox, and sent by the Ram to the King  
All this while stood Bellin the Ram at the Gate, and grew exceeding angry, both against the Fox and the Hare, that they made him wait so long: and therefore called out aloud, for Reynard to come away: Which when Reynard heard, he went forth, and said softly to the Ram, Good Bellin be not offended: Kyward is in earnest conference with his dearest Aunt, and entreated me to say unto you, that if you would be pleased te walk before, he would speedily overtake you, for he is light of foot and spéedier than you: nor will his Aunt part with him thus suddenly, for she and her children are much perplexed at my departure. I but (quoth Bellin) me thought I heard Kyward cry for help. How, cry for help? can you imagine he shall receive hurt in my House far be such a thought from you: but I will tell you the reason: assoon as we were come into my house, and that Ermelin my Wife understood of my pilgrimage, presently she fell down in a swoone: which when Kyward saw, he cried aloud: O Bellin come and help my Aunt, she dies, she dies: then said the Ram, In sadness I mistook the cry, and thought the Hare had been in danger. It was your too much care of him, said the Fox, but before he should have any injury in my house, I would leave to respect either Wife or Children. But letting this discourse pass, you remember Bellin, that yesterday the King and his Council commanded me, that before I departed from the Land, I should send unto him two Letters, which I have made ready, and will entreat you my dearest Cousin to bear them to his Majesty. The Ram answered, I would willingly do you the service, if there be nothing but honourable matter contained in your Letters: but I am unprovided of any thing to carry them in. The Fox said, that is provided for you already, for you shall have my male, which you may conveniently hang about your neck: I know they will be thankfully received of his Majesty, for they contain matter of great importance. Then Bellin promised to carry them: So the Fox returned into the house, and took the male, and put therein the head of Kyward, and brought it to the Ram, and gave him a great charge not to look therein, till it was presented to the King, as he did expect the King's favour: and that he might farther endear himself with his Majesty, he bade the Ram take upon him the inditing of the Letters. which will be so pleasing to the King, that questionless he will pour upon you many favours.  
The Ram was exceeding glad of his advice, and thanked the Fox, saying that the favours he did him should not die unrequited: ●nd I know it will be much to mine honour, when the King shall think I am able to indite with so great perfection: for I know there be many in these days as ignorant as myself, that are risen to high promotion, only by taking upon them the worth of other men's Labours: And therefore why may not I run the same course also? Yet I pray you Reynard farther advise me: is it meets that I take Kyward the Hare along with me? O by no means (said the) Fox) let him come after you, for I know his Aunt will yet not part with him. Besides, I have other secret things to impart to him, which may not yet be revealed. This said, Bellin took leave of the Fox, and went toward the Court, in which journey he made such speed, that he came thither before noon. where he found the King in his Palace, sitting amongst the Nobility.  

The Moral.  
By the kill of the Hare, is showed, that whereas men out of the lightness and easiness of their belief, do give credit to the enticements of their Adversaries, or new reconciled Friends, that evermore some inevitable mischief doth still follow such folly and improvidence. Also how easily a malicious man can find cause of quarrel with such as are too weak for them, or as eyesores stand between them and the end of their purposes, or are able to reveal and hinder their projects By the Rams carrying the Hare's head to the Lion, and taking upon him to indite the Letters, which he saw not: is discovered, that ever such vainglorious pick-purses of others qualities, do ever carry their own shames and disreputations, and when they look for most honour or renown, they reap nothing but misery, scorn and disgrace.    

CHAP. 16. How Bellin the Ram, and his Lineage, were given to the Bear and the Wolf.  
TO this motion of the Libard the King consented, so that Firapell forthwith went to the prison, where the Bear and the Wolf were, and said: My Lords, I bring a free and general pardon from the King, with his love, and a recognition of your injuries: which to recompense in some large manner out of his Princely bounty, he is pleased to bestow upon you both Bellin the Ram, and his whole generation, with whatsoever they possess, and is now confiscate to his Majesty, to hold from henceforth, to you and yours, till doomsday, with full Commission to slay, kill and devour them wheresoever you find them; be it in Woods, Fields or Mountains. And also the King granted unto you full power to hunt, kill, or wound Reynard the Fox wheresoever you find him, or any of his lineage or generation: and of this great privilege you shall receive Lettere Patents at your pleasure, with only a reservation of your fealty and homage to be due to his Majesty, which I advise you to accept, for it will redound much to your honours. Thus was the peace made between the King and these Nobles by the Lybard, and Bellin the Ram was forthwith slain by them; and all these Privileges doth the Wolf hold to this hour, nor could ever any reconcilement be made between them and the Ram's kindred. When this peace was thus finished, the King for joy thereof proclaimed a Feast to be held for twelve days after, which was done with all solemnity.  
To this feast came all manner of wild Beasts for it was universally known through the whole L●f● g●o●● nor 〈◊〉 there wanting any delight or pleasure that 〈…〉, as music, dancing, masking and all Princely 〈…〉: As for several meats they were in that abundance, that the Court seemed a store-house which could not be emptied. A●●o to this seest resorted abundance of ●●ather●● fowl, and all other Creatures that held peace with his Majesty, and no one missing but the Fox only. Now after this feast has thus continued in all pomp the space of eight days about high-noon came Laprell the Coney before the King and Queen, as they sat at dinner, and with a heavy and lamentable voice, said; My gracious and great Lord have pity upon my misery, and attend my complaint, which is of great violence, force and murder, which Reynard the Fox would ●rss●rd●y have committed against me, as I passed by the Castle of Malepardus, where standing without his gates, attired like a P●grime, I supposing to pass peaceably by him toward my ●est: he crossed my way, saying his Bea●s so devoutly, that I saluted him: but he returning ●● answer, stretched forth his right foot, and gave me such a blow on the neck, between the head and shoulders, that I imagined my head had been stricken from my body: but yet so much memory was left me, that I leapt from his clairs; though most grievously hurt and wounded. At this he grieved extremely, because I escaped, only of one of my ears he utterly deprived me; which I beseech your Majesty in your royal nature to pity, and that this bloody murderer may not live thus to afflict your poor Subjects. Now whilst the Conie was thus speaking to the King, there came flying into the Cout, Corbant the Rook, who coming before the King, said: Great King, I beseech you vouchsafe to hear me, and pity the complaint I shall utter: so it is that I went this morning with Sharpbeake my wife, to recreate ourselves on the Heath, and there we found Reynard the Fox laid on the ground like a dead carcase, his eyes staring, his tongue lolling out of his mouth, like a dead Hound, so that we wandering at his strange plight, began to feel and touch his body, but found no life therein at all: then went my wife (poor careful soul) and laid her head to his mouth, to see if he drew any breath: which she had no sooner done; but the foul murderer awaiting his time, snatched her head into his mouth, and bitten it quite off. At that I screaked out, and cried: Woe is me, what misforiunes are these? But presently the murderer starts up, & reached at me with such a bloody intent, that with much trembling and anguish, I was fain to fly up into a tree, where I saw him devour up my wife in such terrible manner, that the very thought is death to me in the repeating.  
The massacre finished, the murderer departed, and I went to the place, and gathered the feathers of my lost wife, which here I humbly present before your Majesty, beseeching you to do me justice, and in such manner to revenge mine injury, that the world may speak fame of your great excellence; for thus to suffer your Laws Protections, and safe Conducts to be violated a ●● broken, will be such disreputation and scandal to your Crown and Dignity, that your very neighbours and Colleagues, will note and point at your remissness: besides the sufferance of the evil will make you guilty of the trespasses which arise from such sufferance: But to your great considerations I leave it: since I know your Majesties own goodness will make you careful of your honour and royalty.  

The Moral.  
By the giving of Bellin unto his enemies, is showed, that when simple men give themselves to pride and vain glory, they are over taken by their enemies, & made slaves to shame and destruction. By the complaint of the Conie, is showed, that when the weak will believe the fair shows of the strong and cruel, and so commit their safeties to their enemy's mercies, they seldom escape with life, or if they do by some hidden providence, yet it is not without ever some maim, either to their bodies or reputations. The complaint of the Rook, shows, that when the evil man sleepeth, or seemeth to have least power or in ●ent of wickedness, that then his thoughts are most busied and laborious to destroy the innocent, and the mischief is more violent, then when he lieth most apparent and publisheth himself an open enemy; wherefore the simple and innocent aught at such times to be most fearful, and to keep farthest out of his danger.    

CHAP. 17. How the King was angry at these complaints, took counsel for revenge; and how Reynard was forewarned by Grimbard the Brock.  
THe royal King was much moved with anger, when he heard these complaints both of the Coney and the Rook; so that his eyes darting out fire amongst the beams of Majesty, his countenance was dreadful and cruel to look on, and the whole Court trembled to behold him. In the end he said; By my Crown, and the truth I evermore reverence and owe unto the Queen my Wife, I will so revenge these outrages committed against my Crown and Dignity, that goodness shall adore me, and the wicked shall die with the remembrance: his falsehood and flattery shall no more get belief in me.  
Is this his journey to Rome, and to the Holy Land? are these the fruits of his Male, his Staff, and other ornaments be coming a devout Pilgrim? Well, he shall find the reward of his Treasons: but it was not my belief, but the persuasion of my Queen; nor am I the first that hath been deceived by that soft gender, since many great spirits have fallen through their enticements. And this said, he commanded all that were about him, both Noble, worthy, and every discreet spirit to assist him with their counsel, and to lay him down such sure ground for his revenge, that his honour and royalty might be anew revived, and every offender made to know and feel the heavy price for their most unjust actions.  
To this speech Isegrim the Wolf replied; Sir Firapel, for my own part, I think not any of this assembly will descent from your counsel, so it may stand with the pleasure of my Lord the King: yet this I dare maintain, that howsoever Reynard shall clear himself of these, and a thousand such like trespasses which shall be brought against him: Yet I have that lodgeth in my bosom, which shall approve he hath forfeited his life: but at this time his absence shall make me silent, only touching the treasure of which he hath informed his Majesty to lie at Crekenpit in Husterloe, there never came a falser information from the mouth of any creature: for it was a lie made out of malice to wrong me and the Bear, and get himself liberty to rob and spoil all that pass by his house, as now he doth: but not withstanding I held it meet that all things be done as shall seem god to his majesty, or you Sir Firapel: Yet this believe, that if he had meant to have appeared he had been here long since for he had summons given him by the King's Messenger.  
To this the King answered, I will have no other course of summoning him, but command all that own me allegiance or respect mine honour, that forthwith they make themselves ready for the war: and at the end of six days appear before me with their Bows, Gunns, Bumbards, Pikes and Halberds; some on horseback, some on foot, for I will besiege Malepardus instantly, and destroy Reynard and his generation from the earth for ever: this if any dislike, let him turn his back, that I may know him for mine enemy. And they all cried with one voice, we are ready to attend your Majesty. When Grimbard the Brock heard this determination he grew exceeding sorry (though his sorrow was desperate) and stealing from the rest of the company, he ran with all speed possible to Mallepardus, neither sparing bush nor brier, pale nor rail: and as he went, he said to himself; Alas my dear Uncle Reynard! into what hazards art thou drawn, ha●ing but one step betwixt thee and thy death, or at the best, thine everlasting banishment? Well may I grieve for thee, since thou art the top and honour of my house, art wise and politic, and a friend to thy friends when they stand in need of thy counsel; for with thy sweet language thou canst inchant all creatures, but all is now bootless. With such manner of lamentations as these, came Grimbard u●to Mallepardus, and found his Uncle Reynard standing at the Castle gates, who had newly gotten two young Pigeons as they came creeping out of their nest, to try how they could learn to fly. But now beholding his Nephew Grimbard, he stayed, and said, Welcome my best beloved Nephew, the only he I esteem above all my kindred: Surely you have run exceeding fast, for you sweat wonderfully: What news man, how runs the squares at the Court? O said Grimbard, exceeding ill with you; for you have forfeited both your life, honour, and estate. The King is up in arms against you with horsemen, and footmen, and soldiers innumerable: besides Isegrim and Bruine are now in more favour with his Majesty, than I am with you; therefore it is high time you have great care of yourself, for their envy hath touched you to the quick; they have informed against you, that you are a thief and a murderer: and to second their informations. Laprel the Coney, and Corbant the Rook have made heinous complaints against you, so that but your shameful death, I see no escape or freedom.  
Tush (said the Fox) my dear Nephew, if this be the worst, let no sorrow affright you: but let us be cheerful and pleasant together, for though the King and all the Court would swear my death, yet will I be exalted above them all, well may they prate and jangle, and tyre themselves with their counsels, but without the help of my wit and policy, neither can the Cor or Commonwealth have any long continuance. Come then my best Nephew, let us enter into my Castle and feast, I have a pair of fat Pigeons for you, which are meat of pure and light digestion; I love not any thing better, they are young and tender, and may be almost swallower whole, for their bones are little other then blood; yet come I say, my wife Ermeline will receive you kindly, but by all means report not to her of any dangers, for she is of soft and melting temper, and it might strike her into sudden sickness, for women are apt to entertain grief. When we have feasted, I will then to morrow early in the morning go with you to the Court, and if I can but attain speech with the King, I shall gall some deep enough, only this I desire (dear Nephew) at your hands, that you will stand to me, as one friend and kinsman ought to do one by another. Doubt me not (said Grimbard) for both my life and goods shall be at your service. I thank you Nephew (said the Fox) and you shall not find me ingrateful. Sir (said the Brock) be bold of this, that you shall come and make your answer before the Lords freely, for none shall dare to arrest or hold you, for that favour the Queen and the Libard have purchased from the King. I am glad of that (said the Fox) nor eat I then a hair for their worst malice. And this said, they went into Malepardus, and found Ermelin sitting amongst her younglings, who presently arose, and received the Brock with all reverence, and he on the other part saluted her and her chidrens with all courtesy. Presently the two Piegons' were made ready, and they supped together, each taking their part though none had so much as they desired: then said the Fox, Nephew, how like you my children Rossel and Reynardine? I hope they will do honour to our family, they are towardly I assure you, for the one lately caught Chicken, and the other hath killed a Pullet: they are also good Duckers, and can both deceiv the Lapwing and the Mallard: I tell you true, I dare already adventure them fare, only I mean first to instruct them how to escape the Grins, and to prevent both the Huntsman and his Hounds; they are of the right heir Nephew, and like me, both in countenance and quality; they play grinning, entangle soothing, and kill smiling: this is the true nature of the Fox, and in this they are perfect, which is great pride unto me.  

The Moral.  
The anger of the Lion at the Fox's trespasses, shows the disposition of a good Prince; which is ever moved and offended, when his good subjects are injured. And the persuasion of the Queen and the Libard, shows, the true temperance which every Prince should use when he administereth Justice. The moderate, yet biting words of the Wolf, shows, the cunning malice of a subtle foe, who before such as are of his contrary faction, will conceal the violence of his malice: that so he may gain a more quiet attention, and then mixing his calm words with bitte● bitter promises, and doubt full injuries, doth the uttermost he can to poison the reenaction of him be hateth. The brock's ●oing to the Fox, showeth the office of a true friend, which bo h●g●veth warning and advice to them they love, when the● see them run into evil courses. The Fox's carelessness shows the true nature of a desperate man; that when he hath plunged himself into the depth of evil, hath nothing but an audacious countenance and an impudent show, to make him seem innocent, yet evermore his heart is nip● with the stinging of his conscience, as o●● as he is alone, which is the torment of every offender.    

CHAP. 18 How the Fox repenting his sin●, doth make his confession, and is absolved by the Brock.  
UNCLE, said the Brock, you may be proud that you have such toward children: and rejoice because they are of my blood. I thank you Nephew, (said the Fox) but I know your journey hath made you weary, therefore you shall go to your rest: to which the Brock consented, so they laid them down upon straw litter, and all slept sound, but the Fox, whose heart was heavy with sorrow, lay studying, how he might best excuse himself before the King. But as soon as the morning began to rise from the top of the Mountains he arose, and went with Grimbard towards the Court; yet before he went, he took leave of his wife and children; and said, Think not mine absence long; (dear wife and children) for I must go to the Court with my Cousin Grimbart, and though my stay be more than ordinary, yet take no affright thereat; and what tidings soever you hear, yet consider all things for the best; and be careful of yourselves, and keep my Castle close, and well guarded: as for myself doubt not but I will defeat all mine enemies. Alas Reynard (said his wife) what moves you to take this sudden journey? the last time you were at the Court, you know what daggers you escaped; and you vowed never to see it again. Will you now run a second hazard? Dame (said the Fox) the occurrants of the world are divers and uncertain; and we are subject to the strokes of fortune: but rest you content, there is necessity that I go, and I hope my stay shall not be above five 〈◊〉 at the uttermost, and so embracing his wife & children, he took leave and departed: and as they journied over the Heath, Reynard said to the Brock: Nephew, since I was last shriven, I have committed many sins, therefore I beseech you let me make before you my confession, that I may pass with less trouble through my worst dangers.  
As I went talking with the Wolf between Houthlust, and Elverding, we beheld a goodly Bay Mare grazing, with a black Foal by her side; which was exceeding fat and wanton: the Wolf at that instant was almost dead for hunger, in so much that he entreated me to go to the Mare, and know if she would sell her foal? I went and demanded the question. The Mare said, she would willingly sell it for Money: I than asked the price? and she said, the price was written in her hinder foot, which if I pleased I might come and read it at my pleasure; but I that well understood her politic anger, said, It is truth that I cannot read, neither do I desire to buy your Foal, only I am a messenger from the Wolf, who hath a great●d sire to have it. Then (said the Mare) let him come himself; and I will give him satisfaction: Then went I to the Wolf, and told him what the Mare said; assuring him, that if he pleased he might have his belly full of the Foal: provided he could read, for the price was written in the Mares hinder foot. Read (said the Wolf) what should a●●e me; I can, Cousin read, both Latin, French, English, and Dutch, I have studied in Oxford, and argued with many Doctors; I have heard many stately Plays, and sitten in the p●ace of judgement: I have taken degrees in both the Laws; nor is there that writing which I cannot decipher: So desiring me to stay for him there; away he went to the Mare, and craved that he might see and read the price of the Foal: to which the Mare consented and lifting up her hinder foot, which was newly shod with strong iron, and seven sharp naile-heads, as the Wolf looked thereon, she smote him so just upon the forehead, that she threw him over and over, and he lay in a dead sound whilst a man might have ridden a mile and better; which done, away trotted the Mare with her Colt, and left the poor Wolf bloody and wounded, in so much that he howled like a Dog: then went I to him, and said Sir Isegrim, dear Uncle, how do you, have you eaten too much of the Colt? indeed you are unkind, that will give me no part with you. I went your message honestly; me thinks you have out slept your dinner: good Uncle tell me what was written under the Mare's foot, was it in Prose or Rhyme? indeed I would fain know it: I think it was a Pricksong, for I heard you sing? nay, you show your scholer-ship in all the Arts.  
Alas, Reynard, (alas said the Wolf) I pray you forbear to disdain me, for I am extremely wounded, and mine anguish is so great, that a heart of flint would pity me; The damned Mare on her long leg hath an iron foot, and I took the nails to have been Letters, on which I looked: she hit me so full on the head, I think my scull is cloven. Dear Uncle (said the Fox) is this truth which you tell me? believe it, you make me wonder, why I took you for one of the greatest Clarks in this Kingdom: Well, I perceive the old Proverb is now made good in you: The greatest Clarks are not the wisest men. Poor men sometimes may outstrip them in judgement; and the reason is, you great Scholars, study so much, that you grow dull, in that you so much overlabour. And thus with these mocks and taunts, I brought the Wolf within a hair's breadth to destruction. And now fair Nephew. I have unladed my Conscience, and delivered as many of my sins as I can call to remembrance; wherefore I beseech you let me receive absolution and penance: and then come what chance shall at the Court, I am armed against all dangers. Then Grimbard said, your trespasses are great and heinous, neverhelesse who is dead, must abide dead. And therefore here I freely absolve you, upon assurance of your hearty repentance: only the contempt you made in sending him Kywards head, and the abuse of so many falsehoods, will lie heavy upon you. Why (said the Fox) he that will live in the world to see this, or hear that, and understand the third, must ever converse with affliction. No man can touch Honey, but he must lick his fingers. I often feel touches of repentance, but reason and our will, are ever in continual combat; so that I oft stand still, as at my wit's end: and cry out against my sins, feeling a detestation of them. But presently the world and her vanities appear to me again: and when I find so many stones and rubs in my way, and the examples of the crafty Prelates, and rich Priests to inchaunt me, that I am forthwith taken again? the world fills me with covetousnese, and the flesh with wantonness; so that loos●ing my good resolutions. I am only for Hell and wickedness. I hear their singing, piping, laughing, playing, and all kind of mirth; and I see their words and actions so contrary, that nothing is more uncertain and various: from them I learn my lying, and from Lords Courts my flattery: for certainly Lords, Ladies, Priests, and Clerks, use most dissimulation. It is now an offence to tell great men truth: and he that cannot dissemble, cannot live. I have oft heard men speak truth, yet they have still graced it with falsehood: for untruths many times happen into discourse unwillingly and without knowledge: yet having a handsome garment, it ever goes for currant. (Dear Nephew) it is now a fashion to lie, flatter, sooth, threaten, pray and curse, and to do any thing that may keep the weak in subjection; who do otherwise is held foolish: but he that cannot wimble falsehood, in truth's kerchief, hath neither Art nor cunning: but he that can do it, and deliver error without stammering, he may do wonders; he may we●r Scarlet. Grace or Purple: he shall gain both by the Laws spiritual and temporal, and write himself conqueror in every designment. There be many that imagine they can i● neatly: but their cunning oft fails them: so that when they think to feed of the fat morsels, they slip quite besides their trenchers. Others blunt and foolish, and for want of method mar all their discourses, but he that can give to his lie a fit and an apt conclusion, can pronounce it without rattling, and make it as truth, fair and amiable: That is the man, and worthy of nomiration. But to speak truth is no cunning, it never makes the Devil laugh: foly● well and with a grace: to lift up wrong above right, to make mountains and build Castles in the air: to make men juggle and look thorough their fingers, and all for hope of gain only. This Nephew, is an Art beyond expression; yet evermore of the end cometh misery and affliction. I will not deny but sometimes men may jest or lie in small things, for he that will speak all truths, shall sometimes speak out of season. To play Placebo, may now and the be born with; for who so speaks always truth, shall find many rubs in his way: men may err for need, and mend it by counsel, since no trespass but hath his mercy: nor any wisdom but at sometime dulleth. Then (said the Brock) Uncle; you are so wise you cannot fail in any purpose, and I would grow enamoured of you; your reasons so far surpass my understanding, that it is no need of your shrift; for yourself may both play the Priest and confessor: you know the world in such sort, that it is impossible for any man to halt before you.  
With these and such manner of discourses, they held on their journey towards the Court: yet the Fox's heart (for all his fair show) was sad and heavy; yet countenance bewrayed it not: but he passed without amazement through all the press of the Court, even till he came to the presence of the King, and the Brock marched close by his side; saying, Uncle, be not afraid, but be of good cheer, it is courage of whom Fortune is ever enamoured Then (said the Fox) Nephew, you say true, and your comfort avails me: and so on he went casting many disdainful countenances on those he liked not; or as who would say, Here I am: what is it that the proudest of yond dare object against me? he beheld there many of his kin which he knew loved him not, as the Otter, the Beaver, and divers others which I will name hereafter: and many he saw which loved him. As soon as he was come in the view of the King, he fell down humbly on his knee, and spoke as followeth.  

The Moral.  
The Foxes sh●●ving himself to the Brock, shows the Art of all disemblers, which ever make devotion their cloak. By h●buying of the Foal of the Mare, is showed, that when proud men make instruments of wiser than themselves, & such as affect not their qualities, the service they do them is ever to bring them to mischief, &c Also when ambition or covetousness blinds men, and makes them trust only in their own skill and knowledge, that then they are ever suddenly overtaken with one mischief or another, and made a mock and scorn to their foes, and such as led them blindfold into the evil.    

CHAP. 9 How Reynard the Fox excused himself before the King, and of the King's answer.  
Then said the Ape, Cousin, cast off your sorrow for I know the way to Rome well and am experienced in these businesses for I am called the Bishop's Clerk, therefore I will go thither, and enter a plea against the Archdeacon, and in spite of his will bring you from the Pope a will seeled absolution.  
But, man I have many great friends there as 〈◊〉 Uncle Sim●●, and others, Prens tour, Wai 〈◊〉 〈◊〉, and the like, all which will stand unto me: besides I will not go unfurnished of money, for I know Paratersare best heard with gift; and the Law hath no feet to walk on but money: a true friend in tried in necessity, and you shall find me without dissembling: therefore cast off your grief, and go to the Court as 〈…〉, for I will presently to 〈◊〉 and in the mea●e time, here I quit you of all your ●●nues and ●●sences and an●●y p●t them upon myself: when you come to the Court you shall find there Dame Rukenaw my wife, her two sisters, and my three children, with divers others of our family. I pray you salute them from me, and show them mine occasions: my wife is exceeding wife, and she shall find that her distressed friends shall not shrink when I can help them I know she is faithful and as behoves her, will never leave her friend in danger. At the uttermost If your oppression be more than you can bear, send presently to me to Rome, and not an enemy that you have, be it King or Queen, or Sub, ject even from the highest to the lowest, but I will presently put them in the Pope's curse, and send back such an Interdiction, that no holy or sacred duty shall be performed till you have right and justice restored you.  
This assure yourself I can easily perform, for his Holiness is very old, and little regarded; only now Cardinal Pare-gold beareth all the sway in the Country, as being young, and rich in many friends: besides, he hath a Concubine: of whom he is fare enamoured: that he denies nothing she demandeth: his Lady is my Niece, and will do whatsoever I request her: therefore Cousin, go boldly to the King, and charge him to do you justice, which I know he will, since he understands the Laws are made for the use of all men.  
This (my Sovereign Lord the King) when I heard him speak, I smiled, and with great joy came hither to relate unto you the truth? that can charge me with any Creature within this Court, that can charge me with any trespass whatsoever, and prove it by testimony, as the Law requireth, or if otherwise, he will oppose himself against me, person to person, grant me but a day, and equal lists, and in combat I will maintain my innocency against him: provided he be equal to me in birth and degree: this Law hath ever hitherto stood constant, and I hope neither in me, for me, or by me, it shall now be broken.  
Isegrim the Wolf, and Bruine the Bear, were very sad when they saw these two forsake the Court: whereupon the King said, If any will appeal the Fox, let him come forth, and he shall be heard: Yesterday we were laden with complants, where are they to day? Here is the Fox ready to answer. Then said the Fox, My sovereign Lord, absence makes impudent accusers bold, when presence daunts them, as your Highness may see both by the Coney and the Rook: O what it is to trust the malice of these Towards! and how soon they may confound good men: but for me it matters not: nevertheless had they (at your Majesty's commandment) but asked me forgiveness, I had quickly cast all their offences behind me, for I will never shake hands with charity, nor ever hate or 〈…〉 mine enemies: my revence I 〈◊〉 to heaven, and justice by your Majesty 〈◊〉 said the King Reynard. you speak well i● the inwar● heart be like the outward show, yet I 〈◊〉 your grief is not such as you express it: It far surmo● is it said the Fox: No quoth the King 〈◊〉 I must 〈◊〉 you with one foul treason, which is, when I had 〈…〉 your great transgressions and you had promised me 〈…〉 pilgrimage to the holy Lord: when I had furnished you with male, with staff, and all things fitting that holy order, then in the greatest despite you se●t me back in the male by Bellin the Ram the head of Reynard the Hare, a thing so nowriously to my disgrace and dishonour, that no treason can be fommer. This you have no colour to ●●ny for Bellin (our Chaplain) at his death revealed the whole process, and the same reward which he then gained, the same you shall receive, or else right shall fail me.  
At this sentence Reynard grew so fore afraid, that he knew not what to say, but looked with a pitiful countenance upon all his kindred which stood round about him; his colour went and came, and his heart fainted, but none sent him either hand or foot to help him: then the King said, Thou dissembling and false Traitor, why art thou now so dumb, But the Fox being full of anguish, fetch a sigh as if his heart would have broke; so that every beast pitied him, save only the Bear and the Wolf, which rejoiced to see his sorrow.  

The Moral.  
The boldness of the Fox's appearance and speech, shows the impudence of a desperate offender, that having nothing but his own boldness to bolster out his cause, still cries for Justice; and caring not so much to excuse himself, as to accuse others, and by digressions & extravagant speech to bring all those into disgrace which are able to testify any thing against him. By the tale of the Apes going for him to Rome, and his threatening the King, is showed, the ignorance and sottish blindness of the old times, which would thrall Kings under the Pope's Curse, and make them subject to his Commands, though they were never so heathe●sh and Diabolical. By his excusing him of the crimes against the Coney and the Rook, is showed, that whosoevers is resolved to do an ill act, will never make conscience to tell a loud Lie; nor is he ever uprovided thereof, because they are the 〈◊〉, which he ever ●●●a●hes his knavery with. By the Ape's friend is 〈◊〉, as Sin o● or Simau●e ●re●t ●ou● or take ill, and Wait S●ath or do mischief, is showed the wickedness of these days in Rome, and how by much mea●es a man might purchase any thing he w●●t about. By his insinuating with the Apes wise (who was then a great favo●●●● about the Queen) is 〈◊〉 showed the 〈◊〉 o●● subtle head, that 〈◊〉 himself among party, will not spare any 〈◊〉, for a●●●●● those ●●●ar ones ●are not the in●erior open their lips. ●y the slight 〈◊〉 the Core●●● 〈…〉 soon the weak are terrified & daunted with the threaten of the strong and mighty, that it is better to sit down with wrong, then to contend with one that holdeth too strong a party. And also how by such advantage the offender takes heart, & thereon grounds the strength of his greater innocence. By the Lion, last accusations and the Fox's direction, is showed, that when truth & authority stand up against the wicked, that then studying with his own conscience, he is able to abide no longer, but with silence and down cast look, he shows plainly the guile which lies within him.    

CHAP. 20. How Dame Rukenaw answered for the Fox to the King, and of the Parable she told him.  
To this speech the King made his answer: Dame, had the Fox done that offence to you he hath done to others, your excuse would couch in another nature, you cannot blame me to hate him, since it is only he which breaketh my laws & covenants? you have heard him accused of theft, murder and treason, how can you then defend him? if you will needs make him your Saint, then set him upon the Altar, and do him worship, but believe it, there is no one good thing in him: and however you imagine, yet search him, and you shall find him rotten and deformed, there is neither kinsman nor friend (but yourself) that will assist him, and therefore your violence draws my greater wonder. What companion hath he that ever thrived by his society, or whom hath he smiled on, that his tail hath not after dashed out the eye of.  
To this the she-Ape replied: My Lord, I love him, and have ever born him a singular reverence, and I can well recount one noble and good action he did in your presence: for which then you thanked him, though now forgotten: yet the heaviest thing should ever weigh the most, and men should keep a measure in their affections, and not hate, nor love with violence; since constancy is the greatest ornament of a Princely nature. We should not praise the day till the evening come, nor is good counsel available, but to those which mean to pursue it.  
I remember about some two years since, there came to this court a man and a serpent to have judgement in a doubtful controversy: For the Serpent attempting to go through a he●g, was taken by the neck with a snare so that there was no way to escape with life: A certain man passing by, the Serpent called and cried unto him, and desired his help, or else he should perish presently. The man taking pity of him (said) If thou wilt faithfully promise me neither to do me hurt with thy tooth or tail, or other poison about thee, I will release thee. The Serpent presently swore he would not, neither at that time, nor any time hereafter: so the man unloosed him, and set him free, and they went forth and traveled together a long season.  
The Serpent agreed thereto; so they traveled till they met with Tisellin the Raven, and Slinopere his son: to whom relating the difference, the Raven adjudged that the Serpent should eat the man, hoping that he and his son should get a share also. But the man said, How shall he that is a robber, and lives by blood, judge this cause? it must not be one but divers, and such as know both Law and equity, that must judge this contention: the Raven is neither just, nor indifferent.  
Then they traveled till they met the Bear and the Wolf, unto whom also they told the matter, and they adjudged against the man likewise. Then the Serpent began to cast his venom, at the man, but the man leapt away, and said, You do me wrong, thus to attempt to kill me: and the Serpent said, Hath not judgement gone twice on my side? Yes (said the Man) by such as are murderers themselves, and such as never kept promise: but I appeal to the Court, let me be tried by your King, and what judgement he giveth, I will willingly abide. To this all consented: So they came to the Court before your Majesty, and the Wolves two children came with their Father, the one was call Emptybelly, the other Navel-full, because they sought to devour the Man. So the full process of the matter was declared to your Majesty: But the Man's kindness and covenant, the Serpent's danger and Faith-breach, occasioned through the extremity of hunger. Remember how much your Highness was perplexed with their difference, and all your Counsel also: For the Man's sorrow, the Serpent's hunger: the Man's goodness, and the Serpent's ingratitude, equally raiseth much pity in your bosom. But in the end such doubts risen, that not any in your Court was able to judge it. At the last, when no help could be found, than you commanded my kinsman Reynard to decide the business: the a was he Oracle of the Court, nor was any thing received, but what he propounded: But he told your Majesty it was impossïble to give true judgement according to their relations, but if he might see the Serpent in what manner he was fettered, and the greatness of his danger, than he knew well how to give judgement therein. Then you commended him, and called him by the the title of Lord Reynard, aproving that to be done which he had spoken.  
Then said the Queen to Rukenaw: Thus much I told into his Majesty yesterday, but his anger was so great, he would not give ear to me. Also the Libero said, Sir, you must judge according to witness: for to be governed by will is tyrannous and ignoble. Then answered the King, It is true you inform me? but the disgrace done to my particular self in Kywards death, and others informations robbed me of patience, that I had no leisure to look back either to Law, or reason: Therefore now let the Fox speak bold'y, and if he can ●ustly acquit himself of the crime laid against him, I shall gladly restore him his liberty, and the rather for you his dear friends sake, whom I have ever found faithful and loyal.  
O how infinitely glad was the Fox when he heard th●se words, and said in himself, Thanks my noble Aunt a thousand times, thou hast put me new blossoms on my dried Roses, and set me in a fair path to liberty. I have one good f●●t to dance on: and I doubt not but to use my Art of di●●im●lation so bravely, that this day shall be remembered for my renown and victory.  

The Moral.  
By the she Apes answering for the Fox, is showed how apt weak women are to be flattered into any beliefs, in which they may either express their pity, or gain glory. Also it shows the verifying of the old proverb, That a Friend in Court is ever w●rth a pound in a man's pu●se. By the violence of her defence, is showed, the true nature of a woman that evermore turns into extremes, and so she may do the good or evil she in tends, will not keep any thing concealed with may any way work for her purpose, nor yet any thing unurged which may disgrace those that are ●f the contrary faction, as may appear by the ta●e of the Man and the Serpent, in which she showeth the wisdom of the Fox, and the folly and disability of the Bear, the Wolf and the rest of the Fox's enemies.    

CHAP. 21. How Reynard excused himself of Kaywards death, and all other imputations; got the King's favour, and made relation of certain Jewels.  
This comb is polished like unto fine silver, and the tooth of it be small and straight, and between the great teeth and the small, in a large field or space, there is graven many an Image subtly made, and eunningly enameled about with fine gold: the field is checked with Sables and Silver, and enameled with Eybor and Azure: and therein is contained the story how Venus, Juno, and Pallas strove for the golden Ball in the mountain Ida, and how it was put to Paris, to give it to the fairest of them.  
Paris at that time was a Shpherd, and kept his Flocks with Oenone on that hill, and as soon as he had received the Ball, Juno promised, if he would bestow it on her she would make him the richest man in the world. Pallas said, That she might have it, to make him the wisest man in the world, and the most fortunate against his enemies. But when Venus said, What needst thou wealth, wisdom or valour? Art thou not Priamus son, and Hector's brother, which have all Afia under their power? Art thou not one of the heirs of mighty Troy? come give me the Ball, and I will give thee the goodliest treasure of the world, and that shall be the fairest Lady breathing; she, whose like no Sun shall ever again behold: so shalt thou be richer than riches, and climb above all in glory: that's the wealth none can praise too much, since beauty is that heavenly Elixir, which turns all things in man to joy and contentment.  
When Paris heard this, he desired to know the Lady; and Venus said, It is Helen of Greece, the wife of King Menelaus; she that is the gem of the world, the treasure of beauty, and the glory of all eyes which did be hold her: then presently Paris gave her the Ball, and confirmed her fairer than the other Goddesses. Then another place was figured how he won Helen, brought her to Troy, the solemnity at the marriage, the honour at the triumphs, and all things else contained in that large story.  
Of this wood the Glasse-case was made, being larger than the Glass by half a foot and more square, upon which verge was deciphered divers many strange Histories, in Gold, in Silver, in Sables, Yellow, Azure and Cynope: and these colours were very curiously wrought and interlaid together, and under each History the words so engraven and enameled, that any man might read the whole Story: believe it, the world never produced a thing of a greater worth, lustre, or pleasure. In the upper part thereof stood a Horse in his natural glory, fat, fair, and fiery, which braved a stately Hart which ran before him: but seeing he could not overtake this Hart in swiftness, at which he infinitely disoained, he went to a Herdsman standing by, and told him, if he would help him to take a Hart which he would show him, he should have all the profit of the conquest, as the horns, skin, and flesh: Then the Herdsman asked him what means he should use to get him: the Horse said, mount upon my back, and I will bear thee after him, till with tiring we take him. The herdsman took his offer, and bestriding the Horse, followed the Dear: but he fled away so fast, and got so much ground of the Horse, that with much labour the Horse grew weary, and he bade the Herdsman light, for he would rest himself awhile. But the Herdsman said; I have a bridle on thy head, and spurs on my héebs, therefore know thou art now my servant, neither will I part with thee, but govern thee as seems best to my pleasure. Thus the Horse brought himself into thraldom, and was taken in his own net for no creature hath a greater adversary than his own envy, and many which labour the hart of others still fall upon their own ruins.  
In another part was figured an Ass and an Hound, which were both the servants of a rich man. This man loved his Hound exceedingly, and would oft play with him, and suffer the dog to faun and leap upon him, and ●ow and then to lick him about the mouth. Now when Baeldwin the Ass saw this, he began to envy the Hound, and said, Whetstone sees my Master in this foul Houmd, that he suffers him thu● to leap upon him, and kiss him? I see no profitable service he doth him. I labour, bear and draw, and do more service in one week, than the dog and his whole kind are able to do in a year, and yet have I not the tithe of his favours: for he sitteth by his trencher, eats the fat of his meat, and lies on Carpets and pillows: when I that do all, am fed only with Netties and Thistles: well I will no longer endure it, but I will study to have my Lord's favour as much as the Hound if not in greater measure. Anon the Master of the house came home; and the Ass lifting up his tail, leapt with his fore-féets on his shoulders, and braying and grinning, and put forth his mouth to kiss him, and used such rude unmannerly actions, that he rubbed all the skin from his Master's ears, and almost overthrew him: so that the man was forced to cry out help, help, for this Asss will kill me. Then came in his servants with staves, and beat the Ass so exceedingly, that he was almost slain: which door, he returned to his stall again: and was an Ass as he was before. In the same manner they which do envy and spite at others welfare, if they receive the same reward, it is nothing more than is due to their merit: for an Ass is an Ass, and was born to eat Thistles: and where Asses govern, there order is never observed, for they have no eye either on this side, or beyond their own private profit: yet sometimes they are advanced, the more is the pity.  
In another part was figured the Story, how my Father and Tybert the Cat travailed together, and had sworn by their troth, that neither for love nor hate they would departed one from the other: but it happened on a time, they saw Hu●ters coming over the fields with a Kennel of Hounds, from which they fled apace, for their lives were in danger, Then said the Fox, Tybert, whither shall we fly: for the Hunters have espied us? for mine own part I have a thousand wiles to escape them, and as long as we abide together, we shall not need to fear them. But the Cat began to sigh, and was exceedingly afraid, and said, Reynard, what needs many words? I have but o'er wile, and that must help me, and forthwith he clambered up to the top of a high Tree, where he lurked amongst the leaves that neither Huntsman nor Hounds could hurt him, and left my Father to abide the whole hazard, for the whole Kennel pursued him, horns and hallows echoing after him: kill the Fox, kill the Fox.  
This when Tybert saw, he mocked my Father: and said: New Cousin Reynard, it is time to let lose all your wiles for if your wit foil you I fear your whole body will perish. This my Father hearing from him he most trusted, and being then in the height of pursuit wearied, and almost spent, he let his male ●●ip from his shoulders, to make himself so much lighter, yet all availed not, for the Hounds were so swift they had caught him, had he not by chance espied a hole, into which he entered, and escaped the Hounds and Huntsmen. Thus you may see the false faith of the Cat, whose like there be many living at this time, and though this might well excuse me from loving the Cat, yet my souls health and charity binds me to the contrary, and I wish him no hurt, though his misfortunes shall never be grievous to me: not so much for hatred, as the remembrance of his injuries, which often contends against my reason.  
Also in that Mirror stands another History of the Wolf, how on a time he sound upon a Heath a dead Horse, whose flesh being eaten away, he was sain'to gnaw and devour the bones, which he did with such gréediness, that swallowing them too hastily down, one fell so cross his throat, that he was almost choked, and hardly escaped with life: whereupon he sought every place for the cunningest Surgeons promising them great gifts to ease his torments: but having lost much labour, in the end he met with the Crane, and besought him with his long neck and bill to help him, and he would highly reward him. The Crane greedy of gain, put in his head into the Wolf's throat, and brought out the Bone. The Wolf started at the pull, and cried out aloud, thou hurt'st me, but I do forgive thee, yet do it not again I charge thee, for at another's hands, I would not bear it: then the Crane said: Sir Isegrim, go and be frolic, for you are whole, I look for no more but the reward you promised me: How (said the Wolf) what impudence is this? I suffer and have cause to complain, yet he will be rewarded, he will not so much as thank me for his life, but forgets that his head was in my mouth, and how I suffered dim to draw it out again without hurting, albeit he put me to exceeding much pain: I suppose it is I which deserve the reward, and not the Crane.  
Thus you may see the fashion of ungrateful men in thése days, however they reward good with evil: for where as pride is exalted. there honour is ever laid in the dust. There be a world which ought to reward, and do good to those that have advanced them, which now complain, and make those advancements injuries, but the gu●r●on will follow: for it is the wisest counsel, that whosoever will go about to chastise another, should ever be sure of his own cleareness. All this, and a world more than I can well remember, was curiously wrought on this Glass: for the workmaster thereof was the cunningest and profoundest Clerk in all Sciences that ever breathed. And because the jewels were too good and precious for me to keep, therefore I sent them to the King & Queen's Majesties as a present, to witness my faith and service: O he that had seen what sorrow my Children made when I sent the Glass away! would have wondered; for by reason of the great virtue therein, they oft gazed in the same; both to behold themselves, and to see how their clothing and apparel became them.  
Little did I then imagine that good Kyward was so near his death, for then but himself, and Bellin the Ram, I knew no messenger worthy to carry so rich a present. But I will search the whole world, but I will find the murderer, for murder cannot be his. It may been he is in this presence which knows what is become of Kuward, albeit he do conceal it; for many devi●s walk like Saints, Yet the greatest wonder of all is (which troubled me most,) that my Lord the King thould say, that my Father, nor myself, ever did good. But the troubles of affairs may well breed forgetfulness in Kings, otherwise your Majesty might call to mind how when the King your Father lived, and you were a Prince not above two years old: My Father came from the School at Moun●pelio●, where he had studied five years the Art of Physic, and was expert in all the principles thereof; and so Famous in those days, that he wore  of Silk, and a Golden Girdle. Now when he was come to the Court he found the King in great extremity of sickness, (which was no little grief unto him, for he loved the King most dearly) and the King rejoiced at his sight, and would not suffer him to be out of his presence. All others might walk whither they would, only he must ever be near him Then said your Father, Reynard I am exceeding sick, and I feel my sickness increasing. My Father answered; my Lord, here is a Urinal, make water therein, and as soon as I behold your state, I will give mine opinion. The King did as he was advised (for he trusted not any equal with him.) Then said my Father, My best Lord, if you will be eased of your grief, you must needs eat the Liquor of a Wolf of seven years old, or else your disease is incurable.  
The Wolf at that time stood by your Father, but said nothing: whereupon the King said, Sir Isegrim, you hear how there is nothing which can cure me but your Liquor. The Wolf replied: not so my Lord, sor I am not yet full five years old. It is no matter (answered my Father) let him be opened, and when I see the Liquor, I will tell you if it been medicinable: Then was the Wolf carried to the Kitchen, and his Liquor taken out, which the King did eat, & was presently cured of his sickness. Then the King thanked my Father and commanded all his Subjects on pain of death, from thenceforth to call him Master Reynard. so he abode still about the King, walking by his side, and was trusted in all things and the King gave him (for an honour) a Garland of Roses, which he must ever wear upon his head. But these remembrances are all lost and gone, and his enemies are now only advanced, virtue is put back, and Innocence li●es in sorrow: for when baseness and covetousness are made Commanders, they neither know themselves, nor look at the lowness from whence they are risen. They have no hearts for pity, nor ears for the par man's cause. Gold is the go●e they run to, and gifts the god which they worship. What great man's Gate doth not look upon Covetousness? where is not flattery entertained, and what Prince takes hate at his own praises? But should greatness need their honest service, well might they starve ere they could gain that employment: For like Wolus, they had rather see their Masters die, then lend them the least part of their Liquor.  
This my Lord was an accident which fell in your youth, and you may well forget it: Yet (without boasting) I myself may say, I have done to you both honour and service, and you haply also forget this which I shall repeat, which I vow I do not to upbraid your Majesty, for you are ever worthy of more than I can tender, and my uttermost is but the rent of a loyal Subject, which I am ever bound by the laws of God and nature to perform.  
So it was, that on a time Isegrim the Wolf, and I had gotten a Swine under us, and by reason of his extreme loud crying, we were compelled to by't him to death. At which time yourself came out of a Grove unto us, and saluted us friendly, saying: That you and the Qéen your wife which came after you, were both exceeding hungry, and entreated us to give you part of our getting: Isegrim then whispered in such manner, that none could understand him, but I spoke out aloud: With all my heart my Lord, and were it better than it is, it were too mean for your service. But Isegrim according to his wont departed grumbling, and took half of the Swine, giving you and the Qeen but one poor quarter, the other he himself unmannerly devoured, and left me for my share but p●r●●alf of the Lungs. When your Majesty had eaten your part, you were still hungry, but the Wolf would deliver none: so that you reached him a blow with your foot, which tore all the skin from about his ears, so that he ran aw●y crying and howling with extremity. But you Majesty commanded him to return again speedily, and bring you more meat, but he went away grumbling. Then I besought your Majestly, that I might go with him: and I well remember your answer. So away we went together, his ears dropping blood all the way as he went: In the end we took a C●if, and when your Majesty saw us bring it, you laughed, and said to me, I was a swift Huntsman, and could find my game quickly and therefore I was fit to serve in time of necessity: Then you bade me to divide it, and I did it, and gave one half thereof to your Majesty, the other half to the Queen: As for the Muggets, Liver, Lungs and all the inwards, I sent them to the young Princes your Children: As for the head I gave it to Isegrim the Wolf, and took unto myself but the feet only. Then said your Majesty, ha' Reyna●d, who taught you to make these courteous divisions? My Lord (answered I) that did this Priest which sits here with his bloodly pate: for he lost his skin for his too much inequality, and for his covetousness hath reaped nothing but shame and dishonour. But it matters not, for there be many Wolus in these days, that would even eat up their best friends and kindred: Nay if they had power, even your Majesty also, for they make no respect either of friend or enemy. But woe to that Commonwealth where such have the upper hand and government.  
My gracious Lord, this and many such like actions as this have I done for your Majesty, which were it not for tediousness sake, I could well repeat. But they are all now cast out of your remembrance, but time and my loyalty I hope will one day again recall them. I have seen the day when no matter was finished in the Court without my advice and censure, though now that judgement is not so reputed: yet it may be, the same reputation may spring up again, and be believed as firmly as before, as long as it swerves not from justice, which is the only thing I aim at. For if any one can charge me otherwise, and prove it by witness, here I stand to endure the uttermost the Law can inflict upon me: But if malice only slander me without witness, I crave the combat according to the Law and instance of the Court. Then said the King, Reynard, you say well; nor know I any thing more of Kywards death, than the bringing of his head unto me by Bellin the Ram; therefore of it I here acquit you. My dear Lord (said the Fox) I humbly thank you: yet is his death so grievous unto me, I cannot let it pass so easy: I remember my heart was heavy at his departure, and I was ready to sink to the ground, which was a certain presage of the loss which happened.  
These words, and the sad looks of the Fox, so amazed all the beholders, that they could not choose but believe all that he uttered, so that every one bemoaned his loss, and pitied his sorrow. But the King and Qéen were most touched with the same, and then entreated him that he would make diligent search for the finding of them out, for his praises had stricken them far in love with the jewels? And because he told them, he had sent those jewels unto them (though they never saw them) yet they gave him as great thanks, as if they had been in their safe possession, and desired him he would be a means they might be restored to them again.  

The Moral.  
By the relation which the Fox made of the Jewels, and their several virtues and riches, is showed the policy of the wicked, which are ever prepared of those baits which they know will so n●●● catch the minds of them they are to entangle. as wealth health, honour & virtue, all which be lodged in those Jewels. As for the stories contained in them, the Fox doth moralise them himself, showing in them severally, the imputations he would have the Lion know to be in his enemies, & such examples are evermore bitter, and work more in the minds or the hearts, ●●en any violent speech or invection whatsoever. By the repeating of his and his Father's services, is she●ed, he subtle insi●nuation of offenders, which to extenuate present crimes, call to mind their good deeds Passed not so much for the memory of the good example, as to beg a new reward though it have been never so often paid for; for noble spirits have ever a tender seeing, and are soon touched with the remembrance of any good turns received for it is an obligation they seldom cancel.    

CHAP. 22. How Reynard made his peace which the King, and how Isegrim the Wolf complained of him again.  
Then the King answered him, that so soon as it should be known where they were, no help or assistance should be wanting. The Fox gave the King humble thanks, for now he had gotten all his purposes to the wished end he expected, and by his false tale and flattery, had so fastened the King unto him, that now he might go freely whither he pleased, and none should dare to complain upon him: only Isegrim the Wolf stood all this while infinitely displeased, and not able to contain his anger any longer; he said, O my Lord the King ● is it possible your Majesty should be so much childish or weak of belief, as to fix your trust upon the falsehood of this ever-deceiving merchant, which hath nothing but shadows and Chimaeras wherewith to inchant you? O be not so easily seduced, he is a wretchall covered and besmeared with murder and treason, and even to your own face hath made a scoff of your Majesty. For my own part I am glad he is here in your presence, and I intent to ring him such a peal of contrary nature, that all the lies he can invent, shall not bear him away with safety.  
But Reynard answered, and said, If this were true, I confess it would touch me near in honour and reputation: but God forbidden that such a slander should be proved against me. I confess I taught her to catch fish, and taught her how to enter the water, and never touch the mire: but her greediness so transported her when she heard me name the fish, that she ran without respect of any path or direction; and so coming into the Ice, the was there presently frozen, by reason of her too long tarrying; for she had more fish than would have satisfied twenty reasonable appetites: but it is commonly seen, that who all would have, all forego: for covetousness seldom bringeth any thing well home: yet when I saw her so fastened in the Ice, I used all my best endeavours to loosen her, and so indeed was heaving and shoving about her, but to little purposé; for by reason of her weight I was not able to move her.  
Now whilst this was in doing came Isegrim, and seeing me so busy about her, Churle-like he most vilely slandered me, like a profuse Wittol, which takes delight to been accounted a Cuckold: but believe it, my gracious Lord, all was false, and his wife virtuous, for any thing within my knowledge: whence I am persuaded, that surely his eye dazzled; for indeed he uttered many a grievous curse, and threatened much revengement against me; so that more to eschew his blasphemy then fury. I went my way, and he came; and with as great ado, and as much heave and shove, he helped her out: which done, (they then almost starved with cold) ran and skipped up and down the fields to get them heat: and that this is all truth which I have spoken, I will willingly be deposed, for I would not be the father of any falsehood before your Majesty, to be master of many millions: however my fortunes go, I respect not, truth is my badge, and hath ever been the Ensign of all my Ancestors: and if there be any scruple or doubt made of mine assertion, I ask but eight day's liberty, that I may confer with my learned Counsel, and I will so approve all my words by the oath and testimony of good and sufficient witness, that your Majesty, and your honourable Counsel shall accord to the justness of my pretestation. As for the Wolf, what have I to do with him? It is well known already that he is a debauched and almost notorious villain; false both to heaven and to your Majesty, and now his own words witness him a base slanderer of women: therefore I refer myself to the trial of his wife: if she accuse me, let the world hold me guilty; provided she may be made free from her husband, whose tyranny will compel her to say any thing, though never so unjustly.  
Then said dame Arsewinde to the King: I beseech your Majesty, mark how this dissembler can blow with all winds, and paint his mischiefs with false colours: a world of times hath he borough me into these hazards. Once he betrayed me to my Aunt the shee-Ape, where ere I escaped, I was fain to leave one of mine ears behind me: if the Fox dare tell the truth of the story (for I know his memory to be much better: besides he is apt to catch advantage from the weakness of language) I desire no better evidence against him. Then said the Fox, willingly I will do it, and without flattery or falsehood, and therefore I beseech your Majesty lend me your Royal patience.  
Upon a certain time the Wolf here came to me into the Wood, and complained unto me that he was exceeding hungry, (yet never saw him fuller in my life) but he would ever dissemble: at which presently I took pity of him, and said, I was also as hungry as he: so away he went and traveled half a day together without finding any thing; then began he to whine and cry, and said, he was able to go no further. Then hard by the foot of a Hathorn tree, we espied a hole all covered over with Brambles, and heard a great rushing therein, but could not imagine the cause why: then I desired the Wolf to go in and look if any thing were there to profit us, (for some thing I knew there was) then said he; Cousin, I would not creep into the hole for a hundred pounds, till I know certainly what was therein, for there may be danger: but if you please to attempt it, who I know hath both Art and wit to save yourself, I will stay here under this Tree till you return: but I beseech you make haste, and let me know what is there in as soon as you perceive it.  
Behold, my dread Lord the King thus he hath made me poor silly beast to go before into the hazard, and he who is great, strong, and mighty, did abide without in peace, wherein I expressed no little friendship, for I would not endure the like danger for a Kingdom: but to proceed, I entered into the hole, and found the way dark, long, and tedious: in the end I espied a great light, which came in on the further side of the hole, by which I saw there lying a great shée-Ape, with eyes glimmering and sparkling with fire, her mouth set round with long sharp tooth, and on her hands and nails sharp as an Elsin, or Bodkin. I imagined her at first a Marmazin, or Baboon, or else a Mercat, for a more dreadful beast I never beheld in all my life time; and by her side lay divers of her children, which like herself were cruel and stern of countenance: when they saw me come towards them, they gaped wide with their mouths upon me, so that I grew amazed, and wished myself far from the harbour. But resolving with myself, that now I was in, I must quit myself as well as I could; I looked more constantly upon her, and me thought she appeared bigger than Isegrim the Wolf, and the least of her brats much larger than myself (for a fouler company I never saw) they were all laid in foul litter, rotten and dirty, with their own piss, they were all daubed and clogged with their own dung, which stunk so filthy, that I was almost poisoned with the smell. For my own part I durst not but speak them fair, and therefore I said, Aunt, God give you many good days, and bless you and my Cousins your pretty children: questionless they are the fairest of their ages that ever I beheld, and so surpass in beauty and perfection, that they may well be accounted of most princely issue. I ruly Aunt, we are infinitely beholden to you that doth add this increase and glory to your family. For mine own part (dear Aunt) when I heard you were laid down and delivered, I could not stay, but needs must come and visit you: Then replied she, Cousin Reynard, you are exceeding welcome: you have found me like a slut, but I thank you for your kind visitation: you are a worthy Gentleman, and (thorough the King's Dominions) for your wit and judgement, held of singular reputation; you do much honour to our kindred, and are famous for the means you work to their preterment: I must entreat you to take the charge of my children, and instruct them in the rules of knowledge and science, that they ●ay know hereafter how to live in the world. I have thought of you ever since they were born, and resolved upon this, Cousin because I knew your perfection, and that you accompanied yourself with none but the good and the virtuous.  
O how glad was I when I heard those words to proceed from her, which kindness was only because at first I called her Aunt, who indeed was no foul kin unto me: for my true Aunt indeed is only dame Ruk●naw, which standeth yonder: who indeed is mother of excellent children. Yet notwithstanding I answered this foul monster; Aunt, my life and goods are both at your service, and what I can do for you night or day, shall ever be at your commandment and your children's. Yet. I most hearty wished myself fare from them at that instant, for I was almost poisoned with their stink. And I pitied Isegrim, who was sore gripped with hunger all this while? and offering to take my leave, and fainting that my wife will think it long till my return, She said, Dear Cousin, you shall not departed till you have eaten something, I shall take it unkindly if you offer it, than risen we up, and carried me into an inner Room, where was great store of all kind of Venison: both the Red Deer, F●llow Deer, and Roe: and great store of Partridge, Pheasant, and other Fowls, that I amazed much from whence such store of meat should come. Now when I had eaten sufficiently, she gave me a side and half a haunch of a Hind, to carry home to my Wife, which I was ashamed to take, but that she compelled me: and so taking my leave, and being entreated often to visit her, I did departed thence, much joied that I had sped so well.  
Now being come out of the Causey, I spied whereas Isegrim lay groaning pitifully, and I asked him how he fared? He said, wondrous ill, and so extremely ill, that (dear Nephew) without some meat I die presently: then did I take compassion on him, and gave him my wife's Token, which preserved his life, and for which then he gave me a world of thanks, though now he hate me extremely. But as soon as he had devoured up my Venison, he said, Reynard, my dear Cousin, what found you in the hole? believe it I am now more hungry than I was before, and this small morsel hath but sharpened my tooth to eat more. Then said I to him, Uncle, get yond into that hole, and you shall find store of victuals, for there lieth my Aunt with her children: if you can flatter and speak her fair, you need fear no hard measure, all things will be as you would wish it.  
I think (my gracious Lord) this was warning sufficient, and that which might have armed any wise spirit, but rude and barbarous beasts will never understand wisdom. And therefore they loathe the policies they know not. But yet he promised to follow my counsel: so forth he went into that foul stinking hole, and found the Ape in that filthy sort as before I described, which when he saw, (being affrighted) he cried out, Woe and alas, I think I am come into hell: did ever creature see such fearful goblins? drown them, for shame drown them, they are so ugly, they are able to scare the Devil, why they make my hair stand an end with their horrid deformity. Then (said she) Sir Isegrim, their creation is not my fault, set it suffice, they are my children, and I am their Mother. Nor ought their beauty or hard favour to displease you: here was a kinsman of theirs to day, and is but newly departed, who is well known to exceed you both in birth, virtue and wisdom, and he accounted them fair and lovely, for your opinion I care not: therefore you may departed at your pleasure. Then he replied (Dame) I would have you know, that I would eat of your meat, it is much better bestowed one me, then on those ugly Urchins. But she told him, she had no meat: Yes (said he) here is meat enough, and with that, offering to reach at the meat, my Aunt start up with her children, and ran at him with their sharp nails and so clawed him, that the blood ran about his ears, and I heard him erie and howl so extremely, that it appeared he had no defence, but to run out of the hole, as fast as he could. For indeed he came out both extremely beaten, and extremely bitten, and all his skin slashed like a Spanish jerkin: and one year left behind as a pawn of his manners.  
This when I saw, I asked him if he had flattered sufficiently? and he said he had spoken as he found, for the Dam was a foul Bitch, and the Litter most ugly monsters. Then I told him, how he should have commended their beauties, and take them for his best of alliance. And he replied, he had rather have seen them all hanged. Then (quoth I) you must always receive such reward as now you do, but wisdom would do otherwise, a lie sometimes as much a●a●●eth, as a true tale: and fair words never come out of season, and better than we, hold it for a rule worthy Imitation.  
Thus my Lord, I have told you truly how he came by his red nightcap, which I know he carmot, nor dare to 〈◊〉, for all is true without any addition.  

The Moral.  
By the complaint of the Wolf, is showed, the envy that one ill man bears another, and how loath they are that any of their contrary faction should scape punishment; and that to gain revengement, they care not what indignity they do to themselves, as doth appear by the Wolf's slandering of his own wife. By the rising of the Town up against the Wolf and his wife, is showed, that one mischief seldom cometh to all folks, but another still follows it at the heels. By the Fox's excuse, is showed, how policy hath ever an evasion, or a cloak for any evil it doth, & can colour every things with a presence of goodness. The Fox's contempt of the Wolf, shows, that the strength or policy consists in disgracing the adverse part, and calling his good name in question, by which means he may lose his life and credit. By the shee-wolfs' falling into the well. shows the effects of covetousness, which never brings any thing home but loss and danger; and that policy cares not who pines, so he feel no pain, as appears by the Foxes tempting her into the Bucket. By their entering into the she Ape's Cave is showed, the difference betwixt temperance and rashness, and how far good words will prevail before rude and churlish behaviour.    

CHAP. 23. How Isegrim proffered his Glove to Reynard to fight with him, which Reynard accepted; and how Rukenaw advised the Fox how to carry himself in the fight.  
THe Wolf answered the Fox: I may well forbear (false Villain, as thou art) thy mocks and scorns, but thine injuries I will not. You say, I was almost dead for hunger, when you helped me in my need: but thou ●iest falsely therein, for it was nothing but a Hare-bone thou gavest me, when thou hadst gnawed all the meat thereof: and therefore know in this thou injurest my reputation; again, thou accusest me of treason against the King and to conspire his Majesty's death, for certain treasure thou sayest is in Husterloe: also thou hast abused and slandered my wife, which will ever be an infamy to her name, if it be not revenged: these things considered, I have for born you long therefore now look not to escape; wherefore seeing there is no other testimony but out own consciences; here before you my Lord the King, and the rest of my Noble Lords, friends and alliances, here I will affirm, and approve to the lost drop of my blood, that thou Reynard the Fox, art a faise Traitor and a murderer; and this I will approve and make good upon thy body within the Lists of the field body against body by which means our strife shall have an end; and in witness whereof I cast thee here my Glove, which I dare thee to take up, that I may have right for mine injuries, or else die like a Recreant.  
Reynard was something perplexed when he saw this, for he knew himself much too weak for the Wolf, and feared to come by the worst: but strait remembering the advantage he had, by reason the Wolf's fore-claws were pulled away, and that they were not yet fully cured, he said, Whatsoever he be that saith I am a Traitor, or a murderer, I say he lieth in his throat, especially Isegrim above all others: poor fool, thou bringest me to the place I desire, and to the purpose I wish for, in sign whereof I take up the gage, and throw down mine, to approve all thy words, lies and falsehoods.  
When these ceremonies were done, the Marshals of the Field bade them do their devoir. And then every creature avoided the Lists, save Dame Rukenaw, who stood by the Fox, and had him remember the words and instructions she had ●iven him, and call to mind, how when he was scarce seven years old, he had then wisdom enough to piss the darkest night, without Lantern or Candle-light, or the help of the Moon, when any occasion required him: and that his experience was much greater, and his reputation of wisdom more frequent with his companions: and therefore to work so as he might win the day, which would be an eternal monument to him and his family for ever. To this the Fox answered (My best Aunt) assure yourself I will do my best, and not forget a tittle of your counsel, I doubt not but my friends shall reap honour and my foes shame by my actions: to this the Ape said, Amen; and so departed.  

The Moral.  
By the Wolf's challenging the Combat of the Fox, is showed the madness of rage & fury, & how negligent it is in respecting his own hazard, so it may do mischief to the adversary. The Foxes accepting of it thews how when policy hath no other shisting hole, that then it grows desperate, and will outface any thing to the uttermost danger. By the she Ape's counsel is showed, the care of a true friend, which is t●en ever most busy, when he sees his companion in danger, and leaves ●o way unsought that way ●ree him from trouble.    

CHAP. 24. Of the Combat betwixt the Fox and the Wolf; the event, passages, and victori.  
WHen none but the Combatants were in the Lists, the Wolf went toward the Fox with infinite rage and fury, and thinking to take the Fox in his fore-feets, the Fox leapt nimbly from him, and the Wolf pursued him; so that there began a tedious chase between them, on which their friends gaxed. The Wolf taking larger strides than the Fox, often overtook him; and lifting up his feet to strike him, the Fox avoided the blow, and smote him on the face with his tail, which was all to b●●●ist; so that the Wolf was stricken almost blind, the piss smarted so extremely. And he was forced to rest while he glaired his eyes, which advantage when Reynard saw, he scratched up the dust with his feet, and threw it in the eyes of the Wolf. This grieved him worse than the former, so that he durst follow him no longer, for the dust and sand sticking in his eyes smarted so sore, that of force he must rub and wash it away, which Reynard seeing, with all the fury he had he ran upon him, and with his tooth gave him three fore wounds on his head, and scoffing said; have I hit you Mr. Wolf? I will yet hit you better: you have killed many a Lamb, and many an innocent beast, and would impose the fault upon me, but you shall find the price of your knavery: I am marked to punish thy sins, and I will give thee thy absolution bravely. It is good thou use patience, for Hell is Purgatory, and thy life is at my mercy: Yet notwithstanding, if thou will kneel down, and ask me forgiveness, and confess thyself vanquished (though thou be'st the worst thing living) yet I will spare thy life, for my pity makes me loath to kill thee. These words made Isogrim both mad and desperate, so that he knew not how to express his fury; his wounds bled, his eyes smarted, and his whole body was oppressed. So that in the height of his fury he lift up his foot, and struck the Fox so great a blow, that he felled him to the ground. But Reynard being nimble, quickly risen up again, and encountered the Wolf, that between them begun a dreadful and doubtful combat. The Wolf was exceeding furious, and ten time he leapt to catch Reynard fast, but his skin was so slippery and oily, he could not hold him. Nay, so wondrous nimble was he in the fight, that when the Wolf thought to have him surest, he would shift himself between his legs, and under his belly, and every time gave the Wolf a bite with his tooth, or a swap on the face with his tail, that the poor Wolf found nothing but despair in the conflict, albeit his strength was much the greater.  
Thus, many wounds and bitings passing on either side; the one expressing cunning, and the other strength; the one fury, the other temperance. In the end the Wolf being enraged that the battle had continued so long (for had his feet been sound, it had been much shorter) he said to himself, I will make an end of this combat; for, I know my very weight is able to crush him to pieces, and I lose much of my reputation to suffer him thus long to contend against me. And this said, he struck the Fox again so sore a blow on the head with his foot, that he fell down to the ground, and ere he could recover himself, and arise, he caught him in his feet, and threw him under him; lying upon him in such wise, as if he would have pressed them to death.  
Now began the Fox to been grievously afraid, and all his friends also, and all Isegrims friends began to shout for joy: but the Fox defended himself (as well as he could) with his claws, lying along, and the Wolf could not hurt him with his claws, his feet were so sore; only with his teeth he snat●●●● at 〈◊〉 to by't him: which when the Fox saw, he smote the Wolf on the head with his fore claws, so that he tore the skin between his brows, and his ears and one of his eyes hung out of his head, which put the Wolf to infinite torment, and he howled out extremely: then Isegrim wiping his face, the Fox took advantage thereof, and with his struggling got upon his feet.  
At which the Wolf was angry, and striking after him, caught the Fox in his arms, and held him fast: never was Reynard in so great a straight as then, for at that time great was their contention: but anger now made the Wolf forget his smart: and gripping the Fox altogether under him, as Reynard was descending himself, his hand light into Isegrims mouth, so that he was in danger to lose it. Then said the Wolf to the Fox, now either yield thyself as vanquished, or else certainly I will kill thee; neither thy dust, thy piss, thy mocks, nor any subtle invention shall now save thee, thou art now left utterly desperate, and my wounds must have their satisfaction. When the Fox heard this, he thought it was a hard election, for both brought his ruin; and suddenly concluding, he said; Dear Uncle, since fortune commands me, I yield to be your servant; and at your commandment will travel for you to the Holy Land, or any other Pilgrimage, or do any service which shall be beneficial to your soul, or the soul of your forefathers: I will do for the King, or for our holy father the Pope: I will hold of you my Lands and revenues; and as I so shall all the rest of my kindred; so that you shall be a Lord of many Lords, and none shall dare to move against you: Besides, whatsoever I get of Pullins, Geese, Partringes or P●oter, flesh or fish, you, your wife and children shall h●ve the first choice ere any come in my belly. I will ever stand by your side, and wheresoever you go, no danger shall come ne●r you: you are strong, and I am subtle, we two joined together, what force can prevail against us: Again, we are so near in blood, that nature forbids there should be any enmity between us: I would not have fought against you, had I been sure of victory, but that you first appealed me, and then you know of necessity I must do my uttermost: I have also in this battle been courteous to you, and not shows my worst violence, as I would on a stranger, for I know it is the duty of a Nephew to spare his Uncle: and this you might well perceive by my running from you, I tell you it was an ation much contrary to my nature; for I might often have hurt you when I refused, nor are you worse for me by any thing, more than the blemish of your eye, for which I am sorry, and with it had not happened: yet thereby know that you shall reap rather benefit then lose thereby, for when other Beasts in their sleep shut two windows, you shall shut but o●●. As for my wife, children, and lineage, they shall fall down at your feet before you in any presence: therefore I humbly desire you that you will suffer poor Reynard to live. I know you will kill me, but what will that avail you, when you shall never live in safety for fear of revergment of my kindred? Therefore temperance many man's wrath is excellent, whereas reshnesse is ever the mother of repentance but Uncle, I know you to be valiant, wise, and discreet, and you rather seek honour, peace, and good same, than blood and revenge.  
Isegrim the Wolf said; Infinite dissembler, how fain wouldst thou be freed of my servitude? Too well I understand thee, and know that if thou were safe on thy feet, thou wouldst forswear this submission: but know, all the wealth in the world shall not buy out thy ransom; for thee and thy friends I esteem them not, nor believe any thing thou hast uttered: too well I know thee and am no bird for thy Limebush chaff cannot deceive me: O how wouldst thou triumph, if I should believe thee; and say I wanted wit to understand thee but thou shalt know, I can look both on this side, and beyond thee; thy many deceits used upon me, have ●ow armed me against thee. Thou sayest thou hast spared me in the battle: but look upon me, and my wounds will spew how falsely thou liest, thou never gavest me a time to breath in, nor will I now give thee a minute to repent in; and the rather when I think of the dishonour thou didst to my bed, and how inhumanely thou didst ravish my dear wife, Dame Arsewinde.  
Now whilst Isegrim was thus talking, the Fox be thought himself how he might best get free, and thrusting his other hand down between his legs, he caught the Wolf fast by the stones, and he wrung him so extremely and hard thereby, that he made him shrink and howl out with the anguish: then the Fox drew his other hand out of his mouth, for the Wolf was in such wondrous torment, that he had much ado to contain himself from swooning: for this torment exceeded above the pain of his ●ie, and in the end he fell over and over in a swound: then presently Reynard leapt upon, and drew him about thè Lists, and dragged him by the legs, and struck, wounded, and bitten him in many places, so that all the whole field might take notice thereof.  
At this all Isegrims friends were full of sorrow, and with great weeping and lamenting went to the King, and prayed him to be pleased to appease the combat, and take it into his own hands: which suit the King granted, and then the Lybard and the Lesson (being marshals) entered the Lists, and told the Fox and the Wolf that the King would speak with them, and that the battle should there end, for he would take it into his own hands, and determine thereof: as for themselves they had done sufficiently, neither would the Kinglose either of them: and to the Fox they said, the whole field gave him the victory.  
The Fox said, I humbly thank them, and what pleaseth my Lord the King to command, I am ready to obey, for mine ambition is no further then to be victor: therefore I beseech you let my friends come to attend me, that I may proceed by their advice. They answered, it was reason: so presently came forth dame Slopecard and Grimbart her husband, dame Rukenaw with her two sisters, Bitelus and Fulrumpe her two sons, and Malice her daughter, the field Mouse, the Weasel, and above an hundred which would not have come, if the Fox had lost the conquest: for to him that hath honour, will over flock attendants; but to him that is in loss, will nothing but contempt follow. Alas, the Fox came to the Beaver, the Otter & both their wives Pauntcerrote, and Ord●gale, and the Olt●o●e, the Mar●in, & the Fi●chews, the Firri●, the Squirrel, and a world more than I can name, and all because he was the victor: nay divers which before had complained of him, were now of nearest kindred; and ready to do him all service. This is the fashion of the world, he that is rich and in favour, can never be poor or hungry for friendship, every one will seem to love him, every one will imitate his fashions.  
Then was a solemn feast held; Trumpets were sounded, Cornets wound, shawms, and all instruments warbled, and every one cried, Praised be heaven for this glorious conquest. Reynard thanked them all kindly, and received them with great joy and gladness: then asked their opinions whether he should yield the victory to the King or no: and Dame Slopard said, yea by all means Cousin, for it stands with your honour, nor may you deny it. And (so the Marshals going before) they went all to the King, guarding the Fox on every side, all the Trumpets, Pipes and Minstrels sounding before him.  
When Reynard came before the King, he fell on his knees, and the King bade him stand up and said to him Reynard, you may well rejoice, for you have when much honour our this day; therefore here I discharge you and set you free, to go whither your own will leads you, for all contestations I ta●e upon myself, and will have it discussed by the wisest of the Kingdom, as soon as Isegrims wounds shall be cured, at what time I will send for you, and so proceed to judgement.  
My worthy and dread Lord (said the Fox) I am well apaid with any thing that shall please you: yet when I came first to your Highness' Court, there were many malicious persons which sought my life (whom I never injured) but they thought to overcome me, by joining with mine enemies against me, and thinking the Wolf had greater favour than I with your Majesty: this was the ground of their indignation, wherein they shown their simplicity, not to alter the end which followed.  
These men (my Lord) are like a great kennel of Hounds which once I saw standing at a Lords house on a dunghill, where they waited for such as should bring them meat, anon they saw a Hound come out of the Kitchen, which had thence brought a goodly rib of Beef: but the Cook pursuing him, threw hot scalding water after him, and scalded all his hinder parts: but notwithstanding away he went with his booty: but when his fellows perceived him, they called to him, and said; O how much art thou bound to the good Cook which hath given thee that goodly bone so well furnished with flesh; but the Dog replied, You speak according to your knowledge, and praise me in such sort, as you see me before with the bone in my mouth; but if you please to look upon me behind on my buttocks, you shall find how dearly I paid for it; and they beholding how he was scalded, and all the hair and skin flayed from his hinder loins: they began to be aghast and amazed at his torment; neither would they any more of his fellowship, but fled and ran away from him. In the same sort (my Lord) these faise and unworthy Beasts, when they are made Lords, possess their desires, and are mighty and renowned: then do they extort, pill and pell the poor and needy, and cat them up like so many hungry starved Hounds; for they are the dogs with bones in their mouths, no man dare to meddle with them, but praise all their actions: no man dare offend them; nay, many assist and help them in their unlawful actions, only that they may lick their fingers, and be partakers of their extortions  
O (my dear Lord)! how can those men go safely, which go thus blindfold? Or how can they expect but a shameful fall, whose steps are so uncertain? neither can any man pity them when their works are disclosed; but continual curses and upbraid follow them to the grave with destruction: many of these have lost their hair (which is their friends) as the Hound did, and have none left to cover their mischiefs, but all forsake them as the Hounds did the dog which was scalded.  
My gracious Lord, I beseech you remember this moral example, and it will nothing impair the greatness of your virtue, for doubtless marry of these evil exrorting creatures are under your subjection, both in Towns, Cities, and great Lords houses, who outface the poor, and sell away their freedoms and privileges, and threaten things upon them which they never knew, thought, or imagined, and all to make up the Commonwealths of their own particular profits: but the ends of such are vile, and heaven hath for them a judgement: but of these errors I hope none shall justly accuse me, nor any of my kindred, but we shall acquit us nobly from the same, I fear no creatures accusations; For I will ever be the Fox, though all my foes swear to the contrary. My Lord, you I adore above all mortal creatures living; nor can any wisdom divert me from you, but I will abide by you to the last gasp: and though malice have told your Highness to the contrary, yet I have ever disproved them, and so will do to the last moment.  

The Moral.  
By the Wolf's 〈◊〉 assaulting the Fox, and the Foxes watching and pursuing of advantages, is showed, the ●olly of ●age & passion, and the discretion of temperance and wisdom; the first never bringing any thing 〈◊〉 lo●●, the other commonly accompanied with honour and safety. By the pist●●il is expressed, the sharp afflictions with which wisdom ever punish as rashness, and by the loss of the Wolf's eye, is ●hewed, that madness and rage is evermore but blindness. The Wolf's catching the Fox, and holding him in 〈◊〉, power, shows, that so sure sometime ●avour, fools, but never gives them grace to enjoy the benefit The Foxes flatt●●ing of the Wolf, shows, That whensoever wisdom is oppressed, it hath yet still one temperate means or other to gain his own liberty; and that fair words do ever either vanquish, or astonish Lastly, by the weak Fox's conquering the strong Wolf, is showed, that in all these accidents of change, neither force, rage, nor violence do prevail so much as wisdom, discretion, and temperate and wary carriage.    

CHAP. 25. How the King forgave the Fox all things, and made him the greatest in his Land; and of his noble return home with all his kindred.  
All Reynards' friends and kindred humbly thanked the King, but he told them it was much short of that he intended to do for their sakes; and advised them all to admonish him to be careful of his faith and loialty. This said Dame Rukenaw, Believe it my Lord, we will not fail in that point, neither fear you the contrary? for should he prove otherwise, we would renounce him. Then the Fox also thanked the King with fair and courteous words, saying; My gracious Lord! I am not worthy of these high honours you do me, yet will ever study with my service how to deserve them: nor shall my best counsel at any time be wanting. And this said, he took his humble leave of the King, and so departed with the rest of his friends and kindred.  
Amongst the rest, Reynard the Fox took his leave of the King and Queen, they desired him not to be long absent from them. To whom he answered, that he would be ever ready at their service, as was his bounden duty; and not himself alone, but all his friends and kindred also. And so begging licence of his Majesty in all solemn manner, and with fair speech, he departed the Court.  
Was never creature that ever flattered braver, or to better purpose, for he that could do the like might be a Master of the eight liberal Sciences. And no Lord whether Spiritual or Temporal, but would have an ear open for all his language. Nor died he without issue, for he hath Children almost in all places.  
And indeed he that hath no alliance to him in the Art of dissimulation, shall hardly prosper, as the world goeth: Though he want his heir, yet if he have his heart, it is enough to make him accepted.  
Plain dealing is now an exile, and Covetousness and fraud have taken possession of his Tenements: not the Pope's Palace, the Court of Emperors, Kings and Princes cannot be excepted of this error.  
Money is now grown the only Favourite of the times; the very Church-Idol, and the Country worship: it can purchase all things, defend all things, and confound all things: And mad men travel over the world, to gain this folly, this fashion: Who is not a true Fox, is but a beast of base estimation.  
This is the world's custom, and what will become of the use, the wise man can hardly judge or imagine: Only that these heinous sins of falsehood, Theft, Murder and Ambition, can never walk but hand in hand with judgement: From which I hearty pray that the hand of the Highest will defend us, and make us walk in those paths which shall be suitable to virtue and piety. With which I conclude, since these misdeeds are not fit Themes for me to treat of, since at the last day every one is sure to give an account for his own burden.  
WIth Reynard all his friends and Kinsfolks to the number of forty, took their leave also of the King, and went away with the Fox, who was no little glad creature tha● he had sped well, and stood so far in the King's favour: for now he had power enough to advance whom he pleased, and pull down any that envied his fortune.  
The Fox went in to Dame Ermeli● his wife, who welcomed him with great tenderness: And to her and her children he related at large, all the wonders which had befallen him at the Court: and missed no tittle or circumstance therein. Then grew they proud that his Fortune was so excellent: and the Fox spent his days from thenceforth (with his Wife and Children) in great joy and content.  
Now whosoever shall relate unto you (of the Fox) more or less than you have heard: I would not wish you to build any faith upon his reports. Only this which you have already heard or read, you may believe at your best pleasure: Or if any refuse, he shall notwithstanding be accounted an Heretic, since he that only saw it, may best give credit unto it; and yet many in this world believe the things they have not seen.  
Besides, there are many Plays, both Comic and Moral, which figure out things that never were, only to make use and benefit of the example: That men may thereby the better eat Vice, and pursue Virtues. In like manner, this Book, though it contain but matter of jest and sport, yet if he look seriously thereinto, he may haply find much Moral matter and wisdom, worth his consideration. Goodness nor any Good man shall he find in it disreputed, for all things are generally spoke, and every man may take his own part as his Conscience shall instruct him: If any man find himself too much oppressed, let him shake it off with amendment: If any man be clear, let him hold on his path, and avoid stumbling: And if any take distaste or offence, let him not blame me, but the Fox, for it is only his language. But if all things suit to my wished imaginations, I shall then be encouraged to salute the world with a second part: clad in some neater English, deeper matter, and if not more, yet every whit as pleasant Morals.  

The Moral.  
By these honours done to the Fox by the Lion, is showed, th●t seldom one good for●●e cometh with 〈◊〉 another, and he that hath once a chieves same and renown, to him will the world fly, and dignity on dignity shall be heaped upon him: as on the contrary part, be that is once fallen, either in state or reputation, it is a thing of much difficulty to ●●e him advanced without miracle; for worldly men are said to be like Dogs, which when one of their own kind is down, all the rest will fall upon him and worry him. But wise men, or good men (for both are scarce) are said to be like Hogs; which when one of their kind is down, all the rest will presently assist and help him. For any thing else contained ●n this Chapter, it is either Moralised by the speeches of the Fox, or else by the Author.  
    

A Table of the Contents of all The CHAPTERS.  

HOW the Lion Proclaimed a solemn feast at his Court: And how Isegrim the Wolf and his wife, and Curtise the Hound, made the first complaint of Reynard the Fox. Chap. 1.  
How Grimbard the Brock spoke for Reynard to the King. Chap. 2.  
How Cauntecleere the Cock complained of Reynard the Fox. Chap. 3.  
The King's answer to the Cock's complaint, and how they sung the Dirge. Chap. 4.  
How Bruine the Bear 〈◊〉 with Reynard to 〈…〉  
How 〈…〉  
How the Fox came to the Court, and how he excused himself. Chap. 10.  
How the Fox was arrested, and judged to death. Chap. 11.  
How the Fox made his confession before the King. Chap. 12.  
How Reynard the Fox was honoured of all Beasts by the King's commandment. Chap. 13.  
How Isegrim and his wife Arswind had their Shoes plucked off for Reynard to wear to Rome Chap. 14.  
How Kaywarp the Hare was slain by Reynard the Fox, and his head sent by the Ram to the King. Chap. 15.  
How Bellin the Ram and his linege were given to the Bear and the Wolf. Chap. 16.  
How the King was angry at these complaints, took counsel for revenge, and how Reynard was forewarned of Grimbard the Brock. Chap. 17.  
How the Fox repenting his sins, doth make confession, and is absolved by the Brock. Chap. 18.  
How Reynard the Fox excused himself before the King, and the King's answer. Chap. 19  
How dame Rukenaw answered for the Fox to the King, and of the parable she told. Chap. 20.  
How Reynard excused himself of Kaywards death, and all other imputations; got the King's favour, and made a relation of certain Jewels. Chap. 21.  
How Reynard made his peace with the King, and how Isegrim the Wolf complained of him again. Chap. 22.  
How Isegrim proffered his Glove to Reynard to fight with him which 〈…〉 and how Rukenaw advised 〈…〉 Chap. 23.