There he would often hide, the cunning Hound,
When he was wanted, and would not be found.
THE FIRST SUMMONS. 29



Amid this intricate obfcurity.
Where none could fafcly find his path but he.
Full many a fimple Bead had lofl his way.
And to the wily Robber fall'n a prey,

Reynard fufpefted there might be fome cheat ;
For the Deceitful always fear deceit.
Was Bruin quite alone ? He felt afraid.
There might be others hid in ambufcade.
But fbon as he was fully fatisfied
His fears were vain, forth from the door he hied ;
And, ** Welcome, deareil Uncle, here ;" quoth he.
With ftudied look of deep humility.
And the moft jefuitical of whifpers,
" I heard you call ; but I was reading Vefpers.
I am quite grieved you (hould have had to wait.
In this cold wind too, {landing at my gate.
How glad I am youVe come ; for I feel fure
With your kind aid, my caufe will be fecure ;
However that may be, at leaft, I know
More welcome nobody could be than you.
But truly 'twas a pity, I muft fay
T'have fent you fuch a long and tedious way.
Good Heav'ns ! how hot you are ! you're tired
to death !



30 REYNARD THE FOX.
How wet your hair is, and how fcant your breath !
Although no flightour good King could have meant.
Some other Mcflenger he might have fent
Than Bruin, the chief glory of his Court,
His kingdom's main adornment and fupport.
Though I fhould be the laft to blame his choice.
Who have, in footh, no caufe but to rejoice.
