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The original of tiiis book is in 
 tine Cornell University Library. 
 
 There are no known copyright restrictions in 
 the United States on the use of the text. 
 
 http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924026192454 
 
■ When eyes I put on him, I tried to pass nimbly by on my road. 
 

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REYNARD THE FOX 
 
 AN EARLY APOLOGUE OF RENOWN 
 
 Clad in an English dress, fashioned according to the German model 
 supplied by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 
 
 By 
 
 JOHN STORER COBB. 
 
 WITH CANTON'S ILLUSTRATIONS. 
 
 BOSTON 
 
 DAMRELL & UPHAM 
 
 The Old Corner Bookstore 
 
 1899 
 
 
?T 
 
 Copyright 1859. 
 
 TYPOGRAPHY BY THE BRYANT PRINT, FLORENCE, MASS. 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 Although so much in the way of com- 
 mentary and criticism has been written about 
 this renowned apologue, yet is its origin, 
 still enveloped in an apparently impenetrable 
 fog. Many investigators, noted for learning 
 and persevering research, have labored to 
 clear this away ; yet, with every new effort,, 
 the only result seems to be a further reces- 
 sion of the date of its birth. The probability 
 of reliable discovery has vanished and naught 
 seems left but to relegate it, as one pains- 
 taking enquirer has suggested, to prehistoric 
 times. 
 
 By some it is regarded as unquestionably 
 a European production ; others look upon the 
 fundamental stories as the common property 
 of various Aryan branches of the human, 
 family, and as having been brought from 
 their Asiatic homes by Teutonic migrants. 
 It has certainly been traced back to the tenth 
 century, and Jacob Grimm arrives at the 
 
IV PREFACE. 
 
 conclusion that it was then known under 
 three forms, with the independent episodes 
 in each so related as to furnish - unmistakable 
 hints of the groundwork of their later blend- 
 ing into one continuous narrative. 
 
 As with the date, so with the place, 
 of its birth. We have no clear idea of 
 where the narrative first saw the light or of 
 the form in which it was brought into being. 
 The claims of France, Germany, and the 
 Netherlands have all been plausibly and 
 forcibly advanced, and it has been likewise 
 maintained that Latin ought to be regarded 
 as the medium through which will be found 
 the earliest account of the adventures of 
 our famous Reynard. It seems, indeed, to 
 have been demonstrated that the oldest extant 
 version is in Latin, still the editor of that 
 version has no apparent hesitation, after a 
 very thorough investigation, in ascribing the 
 origin of the poem to Flanders and in con- 
 sidering the material of the Flemish copy 
 to be derived from some earlier source. 
 
 But, leaving these particulars as of secon- 
 
PREFACE. V 
 
 dary importance, except as an impetus to 
 the pleasures of antiquarian research, which 
 are not to be despised, let us cast a glance 
 at the substance of the famous beast-epic, 
 as it has been aptly called. The motive of 
 its inspiration is thought by some to have 
 been satire. By these it is regarded as a 
 satirical exposure of the foibles and vices of 
 humanity, with a view to their improvement. 
 There are others, however, who consider the 
 romance as nothing but the expression of a 
 general interest in animal life and habits, 
 and as having no satirical basis or educa- 
 tional purpose. With our meagre knowledge 
 of the original it is hard to form a valid 
 judgment upon this question. Nor is it a 
 matter of moment. Whatever the primal 
 intent, it certainly contains, as we have it 
 today, an abundance of satirical allusions to 
 the general imbecility of mankind, as well 
 as to the vices and iniquities prevalent in 
 times past, and not yet altogether extinct, 
 among officers and dignitaries of the church 
 and the state. 
 
VI PREFACE. 
 
 The recital of these adventures, of which 
 Reynard is the hero, has always been held 
 in high esteem among German scholars, but 
 it was not until the genius of Goethe had 
 gathered them into his delightfully written 
 hexameters that the allegory gained a gen- 
 eral reception. Now it is so highly appre- 
 ciated among his fellow-countrymen that the 
 story is to be found in almost every house- 
 hold of the land. It would be well if the 
 same thing could be said of the English 
 speaking peoples of the world, for no one 
 can read it without receiving thereby a 
 benefit whose value will be in direct ratio 
 to the earnestness of the study bestowed 
 upon it. Yet among these peoples it has 
 never been widely known. Hence this new 
 dress. If I shall have succeeded in extend- 
 ing the area of its appreciation, my recom- 
 pense will be ample ; if not, I shall rest 
 contented with the pleasure and the profit 
 that I have myself derived from the attempt. 
 
 J. S. C. 
 
ARGUMENTA. 
 
 CANTO I. 
 
 The Pentecostal days have come, 
 
 And Leo now resolves with some 
 
 Of his good lords to hold a feast, 
 
 At which the greatest and the least 
 
 Shall be commanded to attend. 
 
 The fox, however, keeps away; 
 
 He knows what they of him will say. 
 
 For he has badly injured all; 
 
 So, loudly though they may him call, 
 
 He will not e'en excuses send. 
 
 He there is charged with all the crimes 
 That have been known from olden times, 
 And only one dares him defend. 
 This does not much his matters mend, 
 For all the cases are too clear. 
 The council then is summoned forth. 
 Which thinks that, be he south or north, 
 To be compelled to come he ought. 
 The king declares he shall be brought, 
 And sends to summon him the bear. 
 
VUl ARGUMENTA. 
 
 CANTO II. 
 
 Forth Bruin goes upon his task. 
 Assured if he but Reynard ask 
 To go with him, as bidden, back. 
 He'll find him nothing loth or slack. 
 But Reynard is of other mind; 
 He pleasant greeting gives the bear 
 And asks what he with him can share; 
 Then, finding honey's to his taste, 
 He takes him to a place in haste 
 Where he a good supply shall find. 
 
 To get the honey Bruin sticks, 
 Through one of Reynard's scurvy tricks, 
 His head within a gaping tree; 
 And if you read you'll surely see 
 How the peasants, learning that. 
 Find, him in a sorry plight, 
 And beat him till, in sheer affright, 
 He makes escape and gets again 
 Back to court in grief and pain; 
 And in his place is sent the cat. 
 
 CANTO III. 
 
 Now Tybert meets an omen bad, 
 But still pursues his way, though sad. 
 He finds the fox, his message gives; 
 Then Reynard asks him how he thrives 
 
ARGUMENTA. 
 
 And what lie would prefer to eat. 
 When mice he finds that he would like, 
 He plays him, too, a dirty trick. 
 With eye knocked out and wounded sore 
 The cat gets back to court once more, 
 Like Bruin lamed in head and feet. 
 
 The Badger now essays to do 
 
 What bear and cat have let fall through. 
 
 A third time does the fox not dare 
 
 To disregard, or he will fare 
 
 Full badly at his monarch's hand. 
 
 With Grimbart he at length sets out, 
 
 Beset with many an anxious doubt ; 
 
 He finally begins to pray. 
 
 So Grimbart shrives him on the way 
 
 And warns him evil to withstand. 
 
 CANTO IV. 
 
 Excitement's high when it is known 
 
 That Reynard now draws near the throne. 
 
 No sooner there than he begins 
 
 To shift on others all his sins 
 
 And boast of service to the king. 
 
 This, howe'er, doth naught avail. 
 
 For all the beasts do him assail 
 
 And bring complaints, by anger moved. 
 
 Their charges are considered proved. 
 
 And he condemned for them to swing. 
 
ARGUMENTA. 
 
 But now he talks of treasures vast, 
 Which he discovered in the past ; 
 And tells of crimes that then were rife, 
 And plots to take the monarch's life 
 And set up Bruin in his place. 
 These words the king do greatly rouse. 
 And likewise much excite his spouse; 
 So he is ordered to descend 
 And tell them all from end to end, 
 Without evasion, face to face. 
 
 CANTO V. 
 
 Reynard now the plot sets forth, 
 
 And shows the treasure's princely worth; 
 
 Maligns his father, scores the bear, 
 
 And makes the badger out as clear 
 
 A traitor as was ever found. 
 
 He tells what he himself has done. 
 
 For firmer friend the king has none, 
 
 To frustrate all their base designs. 
 
 Of how he's treated then he whines, 
 
 As if in loyalty not sound. 
 
 The king and queen his lies believe. 
 And promise that he shall receive 
 Forgiveness full for all mistakes 
 That he has made, or ever makes. 
 If only now he change his life. 
 He, too, before returning home. 
 
ARGUMENTA. 
 
 Permission gets to visit Rome, 
 To get release from papal ban, 
 Which Leo thinks a worthy plan, 
 As also does the queen, his wife. 
 
 CANTO VI. 
 
 Now Reynard to the wolves' dismay. 
 From both their hides has cut away 
 A slice, to make him sack and shoes. 
 And then upon his journey goes; 
 But first he by the priest is blest. 
 A cavalcade of nobles go 
 With him some steps, respect to show; 
 But ram and hare induces he 
 To travel on, his home to see. 
 And there before return to rest. 
 
 Inside the house he takes the hare. 
 And slaughters him as soon as there; 
 His head he puts within the sack, 
 Which by the ram he sendeth back, 
 As if it bore a king's despatch 
 The head is found, the ram's condemned, 
 And with the captives matters mend; 
 Once more to honor they are brought, 
 And Reynard's life again is sought, 
 Who deed so dastardly could hatch. 
 
ARGUMENTA. 
 
 CANTO VII. 
 
 A feast of such display and size 
 Is seldom seen by mortal eyes 
 As now is carried on because 
 The wolves and bear, against just laws. 
 Have been to punishment condemned. 
 Before its close, complaints anew 
 Against the fox are brought to view; 
 The rabbit and the crow lament 
 That he on them his spite hath spent, 
 And urge the king such things to end. 
 
 An expedition now is formed, 
 
 And Reynard's fort is to be stormed ; 
 
 Each one desires that he be sent. 
 
 For they his acts do all resent, 
 
 And would chastise him out of hand. 
 
 The badger runs the fox to &nd, 
 
 And tell him what they have in mind; 
 
 Then him induces back to go. 
 
 As he will have much better show 
 
 If there on his defense he stand. 
 
 CANTO VIII. 
 
 The fox again that journey takes, 
 A second time confession makes, 
 And as before he tries to shift 
 His .sins to others' backs, and lift 
 
ARGUMENTA, 
 
 The burden thus from off his own. 
 The clerg^y now he takes in hand, 
 The king and courtiers of the land: 
 These all can do whate'er they will, 
 But should a poor man fall, they'll fill 
 The air with shrieks and hunt him down. 
 
 The ape now comes upon the two, 
 And tells the fox bold front to show; 
 To Rome he goes, and there he will 
 Make slander's tongue keep very still 
 And Reynard's matters straighten out. 
 He knows them all at court of Rome, 
 "With all their tactics is at home; 
 His kinsmen are in numbers there. 
 With them he'll manage this affair, 
 And Reynard need not give it thought. 
 
 CANTO IX. 
 I 
 
 With Grimbart Reynard comes to court. 
 
 Begins a discourse far from short. 
 
 In which he labors hard to show 
 
 That his accusers, as they know. 
 
 Dare naught against him bring point-blank. 
 
 He challenges to mortal strife 
 
 Each one of those who seek his life 
 
 And equals are with him in birth; 
 
 For thus is settled, o'er the earth. 
 
 Disputes 'tween gentlemen of rank. 
 
ARGUMENTA. 
 
 The king in fury seeks his room. 
 
 And there he finds the queen, with whom 
 
 Dame Riickenau, old Martin's wife, 
 
 In converse is about this strife. 
 
 She Reynard's cause begins to plead. 
 
 Shows how in court his father shone, 
 
 How Reynard, too, had often done 
 
 Most worthy deeds where others failed. 
 
 The king his anger then bewailed. 
 
 And let the fox again proceed. 
 
 CANTO X. 
 
 The fox describes those treasures vast 
 Mentioned in some cantos past: 
 I meant them all for queen and king, 
 And now the ram has everything, 
 Which naught can e'er replace, purloined; 
 Those things I sent by ram and hare, 
 And thus am caught within a snare, 
 For Bellyn has poor Lampen killed; 
 A comrade's blood he's foully spilled, 
 With whom he was as envoy joined. 
 
 And I am charged with this base crime; 
 You think me guilty every time 
 Some wicked handicraft is done. 
 Though I am ever on the run 
 My king to serve, whom I adore. 
 
ARGUMENTA. 
 
 His speech is clever, well designed, 
 The king's induced to change his mind, 
 Extends to Reynard leave to go 
 And seek those treasures high and low; 
 But Isengrim feels very sore. 
 
 CANTO XI. 
 
 The wolf in ferment seeks the king, 
 The air with caustic words doth ring; 
 'She king hears all he has to say, 
 And then decides that Reynard may 
 His version of the matter give. 
 The fox once more, with tricks of speech. 
 Makes out himself a saint, who'd teach 
 All beasts how proper lives to lead; 
 Yet they through spite, he says, proceed 
 To claim that he's not fit to live. 
 
 The furious wolf throws down his glove, 
 To signify that he will prove, 
 In combat, all his charges true. 
 Poor Reynard now can nothing do 
 But take the challenge up and fight. 
 The she-ape comes and proffers aid 
 And Reynard soon by her is made 
 All ready for the coming strife, 
 In which is wagered life for life, 
 To manifest where dwells the right. 
 
ARGUMENTA. 
 
 CANTO XII. 
 
 The fox and wolf within the ring 
 
 Their duel fight before the king; 
 
 And never have elsewhere before 
 
 Sly Reynard's tricks availed him more. 
 
 With body shorn and laved with oil 
 
 Evades he all the wolf's attacks; 
 
 And then with subtle twists and knacks 
 
 He conquers Isengrim outright. 
 
 Low cunning better serves than might, 
 
 In folly's strife or reason's toil. 
 
 The wolf from off the field is borne, 
 
 Defeated, wounded, and forlorn; 
 
 His wife and friends about him grieve, 
 
 And think that he can hardly live. 
 
 But Reynard is exalted high; 
 
 Success has brought a change of front; 
 
 The king and all who him were wont 
 
 To vilify are now his friends. 
 
 And thus it is this fable ends; 
 
 Its moral you can now supply. 
 
REYNARD THE FOX 
 
 CANTO ONE 
 
 Whitsun, that fairest of feasts, had arrived; 
 the forest and field 
 
 Rejoiced in new life; on hillock and knoll, 
 in thicket and hedge. 
 
 The newly inspirited birds were singing 
 their jubilant song; 
 
 The meads were all sprouting with flowers, 
 infilling with fragrance the dales, 
 
 The heavens resplendently clear, and blush- 
 ing the earth like a bride. 
 
 King Leo assembles his court ; the vassals 
 
 and lords of the realm, 
 Called hither, make haste with the greatest 
 
 of pomp. Among them arrive 
 
2 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Great numbers of arrogant peers from the 
 
 length and the breadth of the land, 
 Lord Grusly the crane, sir Pica the jay, 
 
 and all of the chiefs. 
 Then makes up the monarch his mind, with 
 
 all of his barons, at once lo 
 
 In splendor and state to hold court, and 
 
 bids tp be thither convoked 
 Together regardless of caste the little as 
 
 well as the great. 
 Of all not a soul should be missed; but ab- 
 sent, however, was one, 
 Sly Reynard, that rascal and knave, who^ 
 
 because of his many misdeeds, 
 Himself kept away from the court. As 
 
 shuns the conscience depraved 
 The light of the day, so avoided the fox 
 
 this assembly of lords. 
 For each of them had to complain that 
 
 harm he had done to them all. 
 And Grimbart the badger alone, the son of 
 
 his brother, had spared. 
 Wolf, Isengrim, opened the case, and with 
 
 him in court there appeared 
 
CANTO I. 3 
 
 His kinsmen, adherents, and friends; escorted 
 
 and succored by these, 20' 
 
 He stepped up in front of the king and 
 
 began with the following speech : 
 Most worshipful monarch and lord, give ear 
 
 to my grievances, pray ; 
 Thou art noble and great and renowned,. 
 
 and to each of us all dost accord 
 Justice and mercy and grace; compassion; 
 
 then show for the wrongs 
 That I, with such boundless reproach, have 
 
 suffered from, Reynard, the fox ; 
 And bear well in mind, above all, that 
 
 times without number he has. 
 In malice, made sport of my wife, and my 
 
 children most basely ill-used. 
 Yes, he has them with foulness defiled^ 
 
 with pestilent, virulent filth, 
 Whereby I have still three at home with 
 
 harrowing blindness distressed. 
 These offences were all, it is true, discussed 
 
 by us both long ago, 30 
 
 And a day, indeed, wa? ordained to settle 
 
 the things in dispute; 
 
4 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 He plighted his word under oath, but soon 
 
 his intention he changed, 
 And then to his fortress he nimbly escaped. 
 
 Too well is this known 
 By those who are here in the court and 
 
 now all about me I see. 
 My lord, the vexation and grief the villain 
 
 has caused me I could 
 Not attempt to relate with hurrying words 
 
 in multiplied weeks. 
 Were all of the linen from Ghent, what- 
 ever the quantity made. 
 At once into parchment reduced, the story 
 
 it would not contain, 
 And I will be silent thereon, yet my wife's 
 
 defamation and shame 
 Eats into my heart, and I would it avenge, 
 
 let happen what may. 40 
 
 Now when in this sorrowful mood Isengrim 
 
 thus had declaimed, 
 A puppy, named Nidget, stepped up and, 
 
 timidly speaking in French, 
 
CANTO I. 5 
 
 Told the monarch how poor he'd become, so 
 that nothing at all had been left 
 
 For his use but a morsel of sausage laid up 
 in a winter retreat ; 
 
 And Reynard had robbed him of that. Then 
 hurriedly sprang forth the cat, 
 
 Mad Tybert, with fury, and said : Com- 
 mander, distinguished and high, 
 
 No one has cause to complain that the 
 scoundrel may do him a wrong 
 
 Any more than our sovereign himself. In 
 this convocation I say 
 
 There is none, be he aged or young, but 
 dreads more intensely the scamp 
 
 Than even yourself. There's nothing, how- 
 ever, to Nidget's lament; 50 
 
 A number of years have gone by since the 
 acts that he mentions occurred. 
 
 And seeing the sausage was mine, 'twas I 
 who complaint should have made. 
 
 I went to take part in a hunt and, while 
 thus engaged, I ran through 
 
 A mill in the night; the miller's wife slept, 
 and I quietly seized 
 
REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 A sausage quite small; I will it confess. 
 
 Now, pray, to the same 
 Had Nidget a shadow of right, then he 
 
 owed it to labor of mine. 
 
 And the panther began : What use are 
 
 these wordy complaints ? 
 They little achieve; be content, the evil's 
 
 as clear as the day; 
 A thief and a cut-throat he is, this at 
 
 least I will boldly assert; 
 Indeed you, my lords, are aware that he 
 
 perpetrates all the known crimes. 60 
 
 Should all of the nobles, indeed, or you, 
 
 our most worshipful king, 
 Of goods and of honor be robbed, he 
 
 would laugh could he get for himself, 
 By chance, but a morsel thereby of a capon 
 
 well fattened and plump. 
 Let me bring to your knowledge what he 
 
 so wickedly did yestermorn 
 To Lampen, the hare; here he stands, the 
 
 man who has never done wrong. ' 
 
CANTO I. 7 
 
 Reynard assumed the devout, and would in 
 
 all kinds of device 
 Him shortly instruction impart, including a 
 
 chaplain's pursuits; 
 So facing each other they sat and their 
 
 task with the Credo began. 
 But abandon old tricks and their use, was 
 
 Reynard not able to do ; 
 Within the safe conduct and peace bestowed 
 
 and assured by our king 70 
 
 He Lampen held fast in his fangs, and 
 
 worried with malice and spite 
 The good honest man like a fiend. I 
 
 wended my way through the street 
 And heard the low chant of the two, 
 
 which, almost as soon as begun, 
 Was brought to an end. I listened sur- 
 prised but, when I drew near, 
 I recognized Reynard forthwith ; he Lampen 
 
 held fast by the throat. 
 And surely had taken his life if I, by good 
 
 luck, in my walk. 
 Had not' then arrived on the scene. Here 
 
 now in your presence he stands; 
 
8 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Just look at the wounds he received, that 
 innocent person whom none 
 
 Would ever attempt to molest. And should 
 our good master permit, 
 
 Or ever your lordships endure, that thus 
 may the peace of the king, 80 
 
 His warrant and license, be mocked and 
 made of no worth by a thief, 
 
 I fear me that yet will the king be forced 
 with his offspring to hear 
 
 A tardy reproach from the folk, who rev- 
 erence justice and right. 
 
 Isengrim said in reply: You say what is 
 
 true, and, alas ! 
 The fox never will any good to us do, 
 
 and I heartily wish 
 The fellow were dead long ago; that for 
 
 peace-loving folk had been best, 
 And if we him pardon again, then will he, 
 
 before very long, 
 Some of us boldly entrap, who at present 
 
 imagine it least. 
 
CANTO I. 9 
 
 Reynard's nephew, the badger, now spoke, 
 and with courage and force 
 
 In Reynard's behalf he held forth, de- 
 praved as the latter was known. 90 
 
 The maxim, though old, he remarked, is 
 true, my lord Isengrim, proved: 
 
 There is little that's good in an enemy's 
 words. Thus my uncle, in truth. 
 
 Small comfort will find in your speech; 
 yet is that of' but little account. 
 
 Were he at the court to reply to your 
 words, and enjoyed he with you 
 
 The favor and grace of the king, then 
 might it you surely repent 
 
 That you had so spoken in spite, and all 
 this old tattle revived. 
 
 The evil, however, that you to Reynard him- 
 self have produced 
 
 You are silent about , and yet to my lords 
 in great number 'tis known 
 
 How together a compact you made, and 
 each to the other engaged 
 
 As two equal colleagues to live. Here's 
 something I ought to relate : lOO 
 
lO REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 How once in the winter himself he put to 
 the greatest of risks 
 
 Altogether for you. A man with a wagon 
 full laden with fish 
 
 Was pacing the street; you scented him out 
 and willingly would 
 
 Have feasted yourself on his goods; but 
 alas, you no money possessed, 
 
 So persuaded my uncle to help; and him- 
 self he with craftiness laid 
 
 At once in the road as if dead. By heav- 
 ens, that venture was bold ! 
 
 Yet notice what species of fish, he got for 
 the risk that he took. 
 
 The carrier came to the spot, my uncle 
 perceived in the road, 
 
 And hastily drew out his sword to evict 
 him forthwith, but he lay 
 
 As if dead; he made not a motion or 
 sign, and the wagoner then no 
 
 Threw him up on the top of his cart, glad 
 of the skin in advance. 
 
 Yes ! that dared my uncle for Isengrim's 
 sake; the cartman at once 
 
CANTO I. II 
 
 Continued his way, and Reynard threw 
 
 some of the fish to the ground; 
 Then Isengrim came sneaking in from afar, 
 
 and ate it all up. 
 Reynard thought it not well any longer to 
 
 ride, so lifted himself 
 And sprang from the cart ; and now he 
 
 himself on the booty would feed, 
 Eut gobbled had Isengrim all; indeed so 
 
 completely had he 
 Himself overgorged, he was ready to burst; 
 
 the bones cleanly picked 
 Were the only things he had left, which 
 
 remnants he offered his friend. 
 One more little trick I will tell, which also 
 
 is naught but the truth: , 120 
 
 To Reynard it known had become, on a 
 
 a nail at a countryman's house 
 Hung a well fattened swine, but yesterday 
 
 killed; of this he informed 
 With frankness the wolf; they went to the 
 
 place, the profit and risk 
 To fairly divide ; but the danger and toil 
 
 bore Reynard alone. 
 
12 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Right in at the window he crept, and then 
 
 with great labor he threw 
 The booty for both below to the wolf; just 
 
 now, by ill luck, 
 Not far from the place were some dogs, 
 
 who scented him out in the house 
 And stalwartly tugged at his skin. Sore 
 
 wounded he made his escape. 
 And Isengrim quickly sought out, to him 
 
 made complaint of his woes, 
 Demanding his share of the meat. And 
 
 Isengrim thereupon said: 130 
 
 For you a fine morsel I've saved; now earn- 
 estly set you to work 
 And heartily gnaw at it well; how much 
 
 you will relish the fat. 
 He brought the delicious piece forth; 'twas 
 
 nought but the crook upon which 
 The butcher had hung up the hog. The 
 
 savory fiesh and the fat 
 Had been gulped by the covetous wolf, that 
 
 base and iniquitous beast. 
 Now Reynard, from rage, was unable to 
 
 speak ; but the turn of his thoughts 
 
CANTO I. 13 
 
 You can think for yourself. Great king, of 
 
 a truth, in a hundred and more 
 Of matters like this has the wolf to my 
 
 uncle behaved like a knave. 
 But not a word more about that; were 
 
 Reynard himself summoned here, 
 His case he would better defend. Mean- 
 while, most beneficent king, 140 
 Most noble of masters and lords, I here beg 
 
 to notice that you 
 And all of these lords will have heard how 
 
 stupidly Isengrim's speech 
 Hath damaged the wife of his choice, and 
 
 tarnished her honor, which he 
 With limb and with life should defend. 
 
 Now these are the facts of the case : 
 Years seven and more have arrived and gone 
 
 by since my uncle bestowed, 
 Without any thought of reserve, his love 
 
 and allegiance upon 
 Dame Greedimund's beauty and charms. 
 
 This happened one night at a dance 
 Which Isengrim failed to attend; I say what 
 
 I know to be true. 
 
14 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Most friendly and pleasantly oft has she his 
 
 advances received. 
 Now what is there more to be said? She 
 
 never has made any charge; 15a 
 
 Moreover she lives and is well, so why 
 
 does he make such a fuss? 
 He silence would keep were he wise; it 
 
 brings to him only disgrace. 
 The badger then further remarked: Now 
 
 comes this romance of the hare ! 
 Detestable, vacuous talk ! Should not a good 
 
 master, forsooth. 
 His pupil correct, if he be not attentive and 
 
 evil withstand ? 
 If never we punished our boys, and put not 
 
 a potent restraint 
 On frivolous habits and bad, into what would 
 
 develop our youth ? 
 Young Nidget next comes and complains, 
 
 how a sausage, one winter, he lost 
 Aback of the hedge ; but this should he 
 
 rather in silence endure, 
 For certainly hear we it said that some one 
 
 had stolen the thing. i6o 
 
CANTO I. 15 
 
 Goes lightly what lightly is got; and who 
 
 can my uncle reproach 
 For easing a thief of his stolen effects? It 
 
 surely is right 
 That men of high station and birth, them- 
 selves to rascals and thieves 
 Should hateful and dangerous show. Why I 
 
 had he him thereupon hanged, 
 Excuse there had been ; yet he set him at 
 
 large to honor the king. 
 For penance by death to inflict has no one 
 
 the right but the king. 
 The requital, however, is poor, on which can 
 
 my uncle rely, 
 How guileless so e'er he may be and deeds- 
 
 that are evil impede. 
 As matter of fact, ever since the peace of 
 
 the king was proclaimed. 
 Conducts himself no one as he. He has 
 
 altered completely his life; 170- 
 
 Eats but one meal a day, like an anchoret 
 
 lives, chastises himself, 
 Wears raiment of hair on unsheltered skin,. 
 
 and has also for long 
 
1 6 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Desisted entirely from flesh of all kinds, both 
 
 domestic and wild, 
 As yesterday I was informed by one who 
 
 had stayed at his house, 
 He has left .Malepartus, his fort, and built 
 
 a small hut for himself. 
 In which as a hermit to live. How lately 
 
 so thin he's become. 
 So pallid from hunger and thirst and other 
 
 like penances sharp. 
 That he in repentance endures, yourselves 
 
 into that will enquire. 
 Then what can it matter to him if all who 
 
 are here him accuse? 
 Should he but arrive, his rights he'd uphold 
 
 and them put to shame. i8o 
 
 When Grimbart had drawn to a close, to the 
 
 wonder of all there appeared 
 Henning, the cock, with the whole of his 
 
 brood. On a sorrowful bier, 
 Despoiled of her neck and her head, was a 
 
 hen carried slowly within; 
 
CANTO I. 17 
 
 Poor Scraper it turned out to be, most pro- 
 lific of egg-laying hens; 
 
 Alas, how her blood trickled down! and 
 Reynard had caused it to flow. 
 
 This now must be brought to the ear of the 
 king. When Henning, the brave, 
 
 Presented himself to the king with sad and 
 most grief -stricken face, 
 
 Came with him still other two cocks, who 
 also lamented their loss. 
 
 The one of them Kreyant was called, and 
 no better cock could be found 
 
 If Holland ahd France were explored; the 
 other, who stood by his side, 190 
 
 Was known by the name of Kantart, a 
 fellow straightforward and stout. 
 
 Each carried a candle alight, and it hap- 
 pened that brothers were both 
 
 Of the massacred hen they brought in; and 
 over the murder they cried 
 
 For trouble and pain. Two younger cocks 
 were supporting the bier, 
 
 And the wailing they made as they came 
 could plainly be heard afar off. 
 
1 8 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 At length Henning spake: That loss we 
 
 bewail which none can repair, 
 Benevolent master and king! Oh, pity the 
 
 wrong we endure, 
 My children as well as myself! Here look 
 
 you on Reynard's foul deed. 
 When winter had from us gone by, and 
 
 leaves and blossoms and flowers 
 Invited us all to be glad, I much in my 
 
 offspring rejoiced, 200 
 
 That spent the delectable days so blithely 
 
 and gaily with me. 
 Ten juvenile sons with daughters fourteen, 
 
 and all of thiem full 
 Of relish and pleasure in life ; my wife, 
 
 that most excellent hen. 
 Together had brought them all up in a 
 
 summer as happy as long; 
 They all were robust and content with their 
 
 lot, and provided themselves 
 Each day with the food they required at a 
 
 spot that was thought to be safe. 
 The court-yard belonged to rich monks, and 
 
 its walls were a shelter to us 
 
CANTO I. 19. 
 
 And six immense dogs. These partners, so 
 
 noble and brave, of our home 
 Were much to my children attached and 
 
 sharply watched over their lives; 
 But Reynard, that thief, it annoyed that we, 
 
 in contentment 'and peace, 210 
 
 Such gay, happy days should enjoy, and 
 
 meantime escape from his wiles; 
 By night he would sneak round the walls, 
 
 and waiting would lie at the gate ; 
 But the dogs found it o,ut, so he took to 
 
 his heels ; yet boldly, at length. 
 They managed to collar him once, and then 
 
 they made holes in his fur; 
 Yet out of their hands he escaped, and left 
 
 us in peace . for awhile. 
 Now give me your ear; this lasted not long; 
 
 he soon came again 
 As a monk, and brought me a writing and 
 
 seal ; 'twas one that I knew ; 
 Your signet I saw on the deed, in which I 
 
 found clearly inscribed 
 That you a firm peace had proclaimed, as 
 
 well with the birds as the beasts. 
 
20 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 To me the announcement he made that he 
 
 a good monk had become, 220 
 
 Had taken the solemnest vow atonement to 
 
 make for his crimes, 
 Of which he acknowledged his guilt. From 
 
 that time should no one from him 
 Have anything further to fear. He had 
 
 sacredly taken an oath 
 That meat never more would he taste. He 
 
 directed my eyes to his cowl 
 And his scapular showed. In addition to 
 
 this, he a symbol displayed. 
 Which the prior upon him had placed; 
 
 and, in order me more to assure, 
 Beneath showed a garment of hair. Then 
 
 taking departure he said: 
 Farewell, in the name of the Lord. I 
 
 have still a great number of things 
 To do before close of the day. The Sexts 
 
 I must read and the Nones, 
 With Vespers appended thereto. He read 
 
 as he walked, and devised 230 
 
 Numerous schemes that were base; to effect 
 
 our destruction he planned. 
 
CANTO I. 21 
 
 With a heart full of gladness and joy I 
 
 soon to my children made known 
 Your letter's good message of cheer. They 
 
 all were entranced at the news! 
 Since Reynard a monk had become, for ■ us 
 
 not a thing was there left 
 Any further to care for or fear. I strutted 
 
 together With them, 
 On the outermost side of the walls, and we 
 
 all in our freedom rejoiced. 
 But alas! matters went with us ill; in am- 
 bush he craftily hid, 
 And thence springing suddenly forth, he 
 
 barred up our way to the gate; 
 The fairest he seized of my sons, and 
 
 dragged him away to devour; 
 And now not a thing could we do; when 
 
 once he had tasted their flesh 240 
 
 He ever was trying again, and neither the 
 
 hunters nor hounds 
 Could make us secure from his snares, not 
 
 either by day or by night. 
 And thus nearly all of my children he 
 
 took, till now from a score 
 
22 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Their number to five is reduced; of the 
 
 rest he has carried off all. 
 Oh, pity my woeful distress! But a day 
 
 has gone by since he slew 
 This daughter of mine that is here, whose 
 
 body was saved by the dogs. 
 Observe ! Here she lies ! That deed he 
 
 has done; oh, take it to heart. 
 
 Then answered the monarch and said: 
 Grimbart, come nearer, and look ! 
 
 In this way abstains our recluse, and thus 
 he his penitence shows ! 
 
 From now should I live but a year, be 
 sure that he shall it repent. 250 
 
 But what is the use of our words? Thou 
 heart-broken Henning, give heed; 
 
 Thy daughter for nothing shall want, what- 
 ever it be, that belongs 
 
 By custom or right to the dead. I will 
 see that her vigil be sung, 
 
 That she with all honor be laid in the 
 earth; when that has been done. 
 
 We council will take with these lords on 
 the penalty due to the crime. 
 
CANTO I. 23 
 
 Then issued the king a command that ser- 
 vice be held for the dead. 
 
 Domino placebo the people assembled began, 
 and they sang 
 
 Each stanza composing it through. I also 
 could further relate 
 
 By whom was the service intoned, by whom 
 the responses as well, 
 
 But that too much time would employ, and 
 therefore I leave it alone. 260 
 
 Her body was laid in a grave, over which 
 was erected a fair 
 
 Marble stone, polished up like a glass, and 
 cut in the form of a square. 
 
 Quite bulky and tall, and upon it, above, 
 could plainly be read: 
 
 Here Scraper, the daughter of Henning, 
 doth lie, most faithful of hens. 
 
 Laid numerous eggs ip her nest, and pru- 
 dently knew how to scratch. 
 
 Alas, here she lies! from her family torn 
 by the murderouis fox. 
 
 All in the world shall be taught how wicked 
 and vile he behaved. 
 
24 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And bemoan the deceased. Thus ran the 
 inscription engraven thereon. 
 
 This having been done, the king had the 
 wisest convoked 
 
 To counsel with him and advise as to how 
 should be punished the crime 270 
 
 That now had so clearly been brought to 
 the knowledge of him and his lords; 
 
 At length their opinion they gave, that un- 
 to the mischievous scamp 
 
 An envoy at once be dispatched, that, willy 
 or nilly, he dare 
 
 Not refuse to obey; that he at the court 
 of the king shall appear 
 
 On the day when the judges next time to- 
 gether assemble therein. 
 
 And chosen was Bruin, the bear, the sum- 
 mons to take ; and the king 
 
 Tins spake unto Bruin, the bear: As mas- 
 ter I give you advice 
 
 Your errand with zeal to perform; yet 
 prudence and caution I charge. 
 
CANTO I. 25 
 
 For Reynard's malicious and mean ; devices 
 and tricks of all kinds 
 
 He surely will bring into play; will flatter 
 and stuff you with lies, 280 
 
 And all that is possible cheat. Twice will 
 he think about that, 
 
 Replied, with assurance, the bear. Let 
 nought you disturb, for if he 
 
 Misjudge by the breadth of a hair and ven- 
 ture his scorn upon me, 
 
 Then by the eternal I swear, that his ven- 
 geance upon me may fall 
 
 If I do not so pay it him back, that kno\y 
 where he is he will not. 285 
 
26 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 CANTO TWO. 
 
 Thus ordered, sir Bruin pursued his way to 
 
 the mountainous ridge, 
 With haughty and confident heart, through 
 
 a wilderness sterile and vast. 
 Long and sandy and broad; and, when 
 
 this at length he had passed, 
 He came very close to the hills where 
 
 wonted was Reynard to hunt; 
 Indeed, in the days that were gone, he 
 
 pleasure had sought there himself. 
 But the bear further went, Malepartus towards, 
 
 where Reynard had long 
 Fine buildings in number possessed. Of 
 
 all his strong castles and burgs. 
 Of which to him many belonged, he thought 
 
 Malepartus the best. 
 In this Reynard made his abode, whenever 
 
 a danger he sniffed. 
 When Bruin the castle attained, the gate 
 
 of admittance he found lo 
 
 Fast bolted and locked, so before it he 
 
 walked and reflected somewhat. 
 
CANTO II. 27 
 
 He finally shouted and said: Are you, 
 
 my dear uncle, at home? 
 Bruin, the bear, has arrived, judicially sent 
 
 by the king. 
 Our monarch has taken an oath that now 
 
 at the bar of his court 
 Yourself you shall place upon trial, and I 
 
 am your escort to be ; 
 That justice you shall not refuse to render 
 
 to all and accept ; 
 If not it will cost you your life, for if you 
 
 shall tarry behind. 
 With rack you are threatened and wheel. 
 
 I advise you to choose for the best. 
 And come with me back to the court, it 
 
 else will you evil betide. 
 
 This speech, from beginning to end, Rey- 
 nard did perfectly hear; 20 
 
 In silence he listened and thought: How 
 would it, I wonder, result. 
 
 If I the^ unmannerly churl should pay for 
 his arrogant words ? 
 
28 , REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Let US upon it reflect. To the depths of 
 
 his dwelling he went, 
 Into its corners and nooks, for built was 
 
 the castle with skill ; 
 Caverns and dungeons there were, and many- 
 dark corridors too, 
 Both narrow and long, and doors of all 
 
 kinds to be opened and shut 
 As time and necessity called. When sought 
 
 for he found that he was, 
 Because of some rascally deed, here found 
 
 he the best of defence. 
 Through simplicity too had he oft in these 
 
 labyrinthian ways 
 Poor animals cheated and caught, acceptable 
 
 prey to the thief. 30 
 
 Now Reynard the words had well heard, 
 
 but yet did he cunningly fear 
 .That near to the messenger still might 
 
 others in ambush be couched. 
 But when he himself had assured that the 
 
 bear had arrived all alone. 
 He went slyly out and exclaimed: My 
 
 dearest of uncles, you are 
 
"Your pardon I beg! I vespers have read, 
 And thus have I caused you to wait." 
 
CANTO II. 29 
 
 Very welcome, I'm sure! Your pardon I 
 
 beg! I vespers have read, 
 And thus have I caused you to wait; my 
 
 thanks for this visit accept, 
 It surely will help me in court; at least so 
 
 permit me to hope. 
 You are welcome, my uncle, whatever the 
 
 hour; however, I think 
 That censure must rest upon him who you 
 
 on this journey has sent, 
 For long and fatiguing it is. Oh, heavens, 
 
 how heated you are ! _ 40 
 
 You've not a dry hair in your head, your 
 
 breathing anxiety shows. 
 Had this mighty monarch of ours no mes- 
 senger other to send 
 Than the noblest of men at his court, exalted 
 
 by him above all? 
 Yet thus it must be of great service tome; 
 
 and now I entreat 
 Your help at the court of the king, where 
 
 I am so badly defamed. 
 Tomorrow I'd made up my mind, in spite 
 
 of the risk that I run, 
 
30 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Unbidden to go to the court, and such my 
 
 intention remains ; 
 I'm not in condition today, to try such a 
 
 journey to take,: 
 I've eaten too freely, alas, of a dish that 
 
 I relish not much, 
 And one that agrees with me not ; it causes 
 
 my belly great pain. 50 
 
 Bruin responded to this : What was it my 
 
 uncle? The fox 
 Replied in his turn : What good would it 
 
 do, if you I should tell? 
 With sorrow prolong I my life, but still 
 
 I'm resigned to my fate. 
 The poor cannot ever be lords, and if at 
 
 odd times can be found 
 No food that is better for us and for ours, 
 
 then truly we must 
 Some combs of sweet honey devour, which 
 
 always with ease can be had ; 
 Yet eat it I only from need ; and swollen 
 
 at present I am. 
 The stuff I reluctantly ate, how then could 
 
 it nourishment give? 
 
CANTO II. 31 
 
 If without it I ever can do, it rests far 
 enough from my tongue. 
 
 Heigh-ho, responded the bear, what is it, 
 
 my uncle, you say ! 60 
 
 Do you in reality scorn the nectar that so 
 
 many crave ? 
 Good honey, I must you inform, surpasses 
 
 all dishes there are, 
 At least to my taste ; oh, help me to 
 
 some! You shall it not rue! 
 The • favor I will you return. You are 
 
 mocking, the other replied. 
 Protested the bear: I am not; indeed I 
 
 mean just what I say. 
 If that is the case, then you I can serve, 
 
 the red one replied. 
 The husbandman, Rusteviel, lives below at 
 
 the foot of the hill. 
 And plenty of honey has he. Indeed, 
 
 among all of your race 
 Saw you never collected so much. Then 
 
 lusted the bear overmuch 
 
32 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 To eat of his favorite food. Oh, take me, 
 
 my uncle, he cried, 7° 
 
 Without losing time, to the place; your 
 
 kindness I'll never forget; 
 Supply me with honey I beg, even though 
 
 not enough can be got. 
 Come on, said the fox in reply, of honey 
 
 no lack shall we find ; 
 Today, it is true, I am bad on the feet, 
 
 yet shall the regard 
 Which long I have cherished for you, en- 
 courage my wearisome steps; 
 For I know not a soul among those who 
 
 to me are connected by blood 
 Whom I honor, my uncle, as you ! So 
 
 come, and you will, in return. 
 Me serve at the court of the king, when 
 
 there I shall have t» appear, 
 That I to confusion may put the charges 
 
 and strength of my foes. 
 With honey I'll fill you today, as much as 
 
 you ever could wish. 80 
 
 He was thinking, the scamp, of the blows 
 
 the peasants would give in their wrath. 
 
CANTO II. 
 
 33 
 
 Reynard in front hurried off and Bruin 
 
 came blindly behind. 
 If I but succeed, thought the fox, I yet 
 
 shall conduct you today 
 To a market in which unto you bitter 
 
 honey apportioned will be. 
 They came up to Rusteviel's yard, which 
 
 greatly elated the bear; 
 But in vain, as fools very often themselves 
 
 with hopes lead astray. 
 
 Eve had already set in, and Reynard quite 
 
 well was aware 
 That Riisteviel lay, as a rule, just now in 
 
 ' his chamber in bed. 
 He a carpenter was, a craftsman of skill, 
 
 and down in his yard 
 Was lying the trunk of an oak, in order 
 
 to split which he had 90 
 
 Two good solid wedges inserted therein, so 
 
 far that on top 
 Gaped open the tree near the width of an 
 
 ell. This Reynard observed 
 
34 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And said to the bear: Dear uncle, inside 
 
 of this tree will be found 
 More honey than you would suspect, now 
 
 thrust in it quickly your snout 
 As far as you possibly can. I merely 
 
 would risk the advice 
 That in greed you take not too much ; it 
 
 might with you badly agree. 
 Do you, said the bear, for a glutton me 
 
 take? Why no, not at all. 
 But temperance always is good, whatever it 
 
 be that you do. 
 Thus was outwitted the bear! his head he 
 
 stuck into the crack, 
 Yea, even right up to his ears, and further- 
 more both his front paws. loo 
 Then earnestly Reynard fell to, with many 
 
 strong pulls and good tugs, 
 And both of the wedges tore out. Now 
 
 was the brown fellow caught, 
 Held fast by his head and his feet, nor 
 
 scolding nor coaxing availed. 
 Bruin now had a-plenty to do, for all of 
 
 his boldness and strength; 
 
CANTO II. 35 
 
 And thus kept' the nephew with craft his 
 
 uncle encaged in the tree. 
 With howls now laniented the bear, and 
 
 tore, with his hindermost claws, 
 So fiercely and raised such a row that 
 
 Riisteviel sprang out of bed 
 And wondered whatever was up; he took 
 
 along with him his axe. 
 So as weaponless not to be found, should 
 
 any one try him to harm. 
 
 Bruin was now in a terrible fix ; for the 
 
 - narrowing crack no 
 
 Was pinching him hard; he struggled and 
 
 pulled and roared with his pain ; 
 His efforts, however, were all of no use ; 
 
 he fully believed 
 That never therefrom should he come; so 
 
 Reynard, too, joyfully thought. 
 When he in the distance observed Rusteviel 
 
 coming, he cried: 
 Bruin, how do you feel? Be thrifty and 
 
 eat not the honey all up! 
 
36 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Does it taste very good? Rusteviel comes 
 
 and will give you a treat; 
 He brings you a sip for your meal ; I hope 
 
 it will with you agree. 
 Then Reynard pursued his way back, Mal- 
 
 epartus, his fortress to gain ; 
 But Rusteviel came in his stead and, when 
 
 he put eyes on the bear. 
 He ran all the peasants to call, who in 
 
 company still at the inn 120 
 
 Were over their cups. Come on, he cried 
 
 out, in my yard there is caught 
 A bear in a trap; that really is so. They 
 
 followed in haste. 
 Each arming himself with despatch as well as 
 
 the time would allow. 
 The first took a fork in his hand, another 
 
 brought with him his rake. 
 And likewise a third and a fourth, provided 
 
 with hatchet and spear. 
 Came bounding with vigorous strides; a 
 
 fifth was equipped with a pole. 
 The sexton and even the priest came on 
 
 with the tools of their trade. 
 
CANTO II. 37 
 
 And also the clergyman's cook, (of whom 
 
 was Dame Yulock the name, 
 And who as none other a porridge could 
 
 serve) remained not behind. 
 But ran with her distaff in hand, at which 
 
 all the day she had sat, 130 
 
 To curry the skin of the luckless bear. 
 
 Bruin heard, as they came, 
 The increasing and deafening din with all 
 
 its most horrible notes, 
 And forcibly tore out his • head from the 
 
 cleft; but yet there remained 
 The hair and the skin of his face, as far 
 
 as his ears, in the tree. 
 Indeed, not a wretcheder beast has anyone 
 
 seen, for the blood 
 Trickled over his ears. But what did he 
 
 gain by releasing his head? 
 For still were his paws firmly held in the 
 
 tree; now backing he tore 
 Them hastily out with a jerk; he raved as 
 
 if out of his mind. 
 His claws and the skin from his feet being 
 
 left in the narrowing crack. 
 
38 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 No taste of ' sweet honey had this ; alas, it 
 
 was not such as that 140 
 
 Which Reynard him led to expect. The 
 
 outing was wickedly planned, 
 A sorrowful trip to the bear it had proved ; 
 
 his beard and his paws 
 Were covered all over with blood; he was 
 
 wholly unable to stand. 
 Unable to walk or to crawl. Now Riiste- 
 
 viel hastened to strike; 
 He was fallen, upon by them all who had 
 
 with the master arrived; 
 Their aim was to put him to death. The 
 
 priest for preparedness brought 
 A staff of some length in his hand, and 
 
 waled him therewith from afar. 
 Now hither and thither in sadness he 
 
 turned, hemmed in by the crowd; 
 Some here bearing pikes, others with axes 
 
 out there, while the smith 
 Brought hammer and tongs to the fray, 
 
 and others with shovels arrived, 150 
 
 Some also with spades, and shouting they 
 
 pummelled at random and struck. 
 
CANTO II. 39 
 
 Till he, out of harrowing fear, wallowed 
 in foulness his own. 
 
 In the onset they all toqk a hand; not one 
 of them all stayed away. 
 
 And Hulyn, the bow-legged clown, with 
 Ludolph, the flat-nozzled rogue, 
 
 By far were the worst; and Gerold aloft 
 swung the hard wooden flail 
 
 His long crooked fingers between; his broth- 
 er-in-law at his side. 
 
 The burly old Korkoran, stood; these two 
 struck him worst of them all. 
 
 Dames Yulock and Abelquack too had also 
 their part in the strife, 
 
 The latter, the worse of the two, struck the 
 poor thing with her tub. 
 
 And those above named were not all ; the 
 women as well as the men i6o 
 
 All ran to the spot, determined to have 
 the life of the bear. 
 
 Old Korkoran made the most noise, regard- 
 ing himself as the chief ; 
 
 For Poggy of Chafport was known his 
 mother to be very well, 
 
40 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And that by the sinister bar, but his father 
 
 was never revealed ; 
 The peasants, however, believed that Sander 
 
 was probably he, 
 The dark-featured gleaner of straw, a fellow 
 
 robust and superb 
 When he by himself was alone. Stones 
 
 also came flying with force. 
 And harrassed the desperate bear, as they 
 
 from all sides were received. 
 Now Rusteviel's brother jumped up and 
 
 struck, with a long sturdy club. 
 The bear on the top of his head, so hard 
 
 that both hearing and sight 170 
 
 Were wholly destroyed ; yet started he up 
 
 from the vigorous stroke 
 And, enraged, at the women he rushed, 
 
 who into confusion were thrown, 
 And tottered and tumbled and yelled, and 
 
 into the water some fell; 
 And the water was deep. Then out cried 
 
 the father and said: Look but! 
 Down there is Dame Yulock, my cook, 
 
 floating below in her furs;. 
 
CANTO II. 41 
 
 Her distaff is here on the bank; •come help 
 
 her, you men ! I will give 
 Two barrels of beer as reward, with ample 
 
 indulgence and grace. 
 The bear they all left lying there as if 
 
 dead, and hurried away 
 To the water the women to save, and drew 
 
 out the five to the land. 
 The bear waddled slowly away while the 
 
 men were engaged at the shore, 180 
 
 And into the water he crawled in arrant 
 
 distress, and he roared 
 In horrible anguish and pain ; he rather 
 
 would much have been drowned. 
 Than blows so disgraceful endure. To swim 
 
 he had never essayed, 
 And now in his misery hoped that his life 
 
 he might end on the spot. 
 Against expectation he found that he swam, 
 
 and was luckilv borne 
 By the water a distance below. Then him 
 
 all the peasants observed. 
 And exclaimed:' To us this will dertainly 
 
 prove an . eternal disgrace ! 
 
42 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 They all -out of humor became, and began 
 
 at the women to scold: 
 ' Twere better had they stayed at home; 
 
 just look now and see how he swims 
 Down there on his way. Then close they 
 
 approached to examine the log, 190 
 
 And in it remaining they found the skin 
 
 and the hair from his head, 
 And also his feet, and chuckled thereover 
 
 and cried: You will come 
 To us surely again ; meanwhile we accept 
 
 your ears as a pledge. 
 And thus to his injuries added they jeers, 
 
 yet happy was he 
 The evil like this to escape. The peasants 
 
 he roundly reviled. 
 Who him had chastised, lamented the pain 
 
 in his ears and his feet. 
 And Reynard denounced, who him had 
 
 betrayed. With prayers like these 
 He swam further off, urged on by the stream, 
 
 which was rapid and large, 
 Within but a short space of time, below 
 
 very nearly a mile. 
 
CANTO II. 43 
 
 And then on the very same bank, all 
 breathless he waded ashore. 200 
 
 No beast in a bitterer plight till then had 
 the sun ever seen. 
 
 The morning he thought that he never 
 should see; he fully believed 
 
 He must instantly die, and cried: Oh, Rey- 
 nard, you villainous wretch ! 
 
 You dissolute scamp ! He was thinking 
 besides of the pummelling boors; 
 
 And also he thought of the tree, and Rey- 
 nard's deception he cursed. 
 
 Reynard, however, the fox, when he, with 
 
 precaution so good, 
 His uncle to market had led, with honey 
 
 him there to supply. 
 Went after some fowls, whose dwelling he 
 
 knew, and pounced upon one, 
 Then rapidly ran to the stream, dragging 
 
 his booty along ; 
 There he despatched it at once and hastened 
 
 to other affairs, 210 
 
44 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The river still keeping close by; he drank 
 
 of the water and thought: 
 How happy and joyous I feel, at having 
 
 the dull-witted bear 
 Thus led to the carpenter's yard ! I'll wager 
 
 that Riisteviel let 
 Him have a good taste of his axe. Always 
 
 the bear has displayed 
 Malevolent feelings to me ; and now I have 
 
 paid it him back. 
 My uncle I've always him dubbed, and now 
 
 in the cleft of a tree 
 He lifeless remains ; and for that I'll rejoice 
 
 so long as I live. 
 No more will he render his damaging 
 
 plaints! And, roaming along, 
 He looked at the river below, and saw the 
 
 bear rolling about; 
 To the core of his heart he was vexed 
 
 that Bruin had living escaped. 220 
 
 He Riisteviel cried, you indolent wight, 
 
 you blundering fool. 
 Fat meat such as this you disdain, so tender 
 
 aad good to the taste, 
 
CANTO 11. 45 
 
 Which any sane man might desire, and 
 
 which, with such infinite ease, 
 Fell unawares into your hands! But still, 
 
 for your welcome so kind 
 Has the , innocent bear left behind him a 
 
 pledge. Thus were his thoughts 
 As he upon Bruin set eyes, downcast, 
 
 bloody, and faint. 
 He finally called to the bear: Do I find 
 
 you, sir uncle, again ? 
 Have you anything lost in Riisteviel's yard ? 
 
 Tell me and I'll let 
 Him know where you make your abode. I 
 
 also should tell him, I think. 
 That doubtless you have from the man a 
 
 good lot of honey purloined. 230 
 
 Or have you him honestly paid ? How was 
 
 it that this came about? 
 Dear me! Who has painted you so? You 
 
 have a deplorable look. 
 Your taste did the honey not suit ? At the 
 
 same identical price 
 Can more of it yet be obtained. Now, uncle, 
 
 do tell me at once 
 
46 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The name of the order to which you have 
 
 lately devoted yourself, 
 That you on your head have begun a re4- 
 
 colored bonnet to wear! 
 Is it true that you now are a monk ? The 
 
 barber assuredly has, 
 In trying your tonsure to shave, made a 
 
 very bad snip at your ears; 
 I see you are losing your hair and also the 
 
 skin from your cheeks, 
 And even your gauntlets as well. Where 
 
 did you leave them to hang ? 240 
 
 And thus the poor bear was compelled, his 
 
 numerous bantering words 
 One after the other to hear; while he, in 
 
 his pain, could not speak; 
 Was indeed at his very wits' end ; and so 
 
 as not further to hear, 
 Back into the water he crept, and swam 
 
 with the swift-flowing tide. 
 Lower down, till a shore that was level he 
 
 found; he landed and lay 
 Disheartened and sick; lamented aloud and 
 
 remarked to himself : 
 
CANTO II. 47 
 
 Oh, that some one would kill me outright! 
 
 I'm unable to walk, arid I ought 
 My journey to make to the court of the 
 
 king; yet here I remain. 
 So shamefully injured, behind, and all 
 
 through Reynard's vile tricks. 
 If I only get through with my life, he 
 
 verily shall it repent. 250 
 
 Then got he himself on his feet and, 
 
 racked with unbearable pain. 
 Limped on for the space of four days, and 
 
 finally came to the court. 
 
 The king, setting eyes on the bear as in 
 
 his distress he approached. 
 Cried : Merciful God ! Is it Bruin I see ? 
 
 How is it he comes 
 Maltreated like this ? And Bruin replied : 
 
 Alas, it is sad, 
 The evil on which you now look! Thus me 
 
 has the mischievous knave, 
 Reynard, most basely betrayed! Then spake 
 
 in his anger the king: 
 
48 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 This outrage I certainly will, without any. 
 mercy, avenge. 
 
 Such a noble as Bruin, in faith, would Rey- 
 nard defy and abuse ? 
 
 Indeed, by my honor, my crown, I now 
 with solemnity swear 260 
 
 That Reynard all things shall endure that 
 Bruin by law can demand. 
 
 If I keep not my word, no sword any more 
 will I wear ; that I vow ! 
 
 The king then a mandate sent forth, his 
 
 council together should come, 
 Consider at once the affair, and a penalty 
 
 fix for the crime. 
 They all recommended thereon, provided the 
 
 king thought it fit, 
 That Reynard be summoned anew himself to 
 
 present at the court, 
 His rights to defend against charge and 
 
 complaint; and Tybert the cat 
 Forthwith as the herald be sent the order 
 
 to Reynard to take, 
 
CANTO II. 49 
 
 Because he is wise and adroit. So coun- 
 selled they all in accord. 
 
 His gracious assent gave the king to that 
 which the council advised; 270 
 
 And to Tybert he said : Pay attention to all 
 that my lords have in view ! 
 
 Should he for a third time have to be 
 called, then shall it to him 
 
 And every one of his race for damage 
 eternal be held. 
 
 He will, if he's wise, come in time. . And 
 let your monition have point; 
 
 Others he only contemns; he listens, how- 
 ever, to you. 
 
 Tybert, howeVer, replied: Whether to weal 
 
 or to woe 
 It tend, when I come where he is, how 
 
 shall I the matter begin? 
 For me he may do it or not, but still unto 
 
 me it appears 
 That another could better be sent, for I am 
 
 so little and weak. 
 
50 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Bruin the bear is lusty and strong, yet tp 
 master him failed, 280 
 
 What chance of success then have I? Oh, 
 
 let me, I pray, be excused! 
 
 Your pleading convinces me not, responded 
 
 the king; one may find 
 Many a man that is small full of wisdom 
 
 and craft, which are strange 
 To many a one that is big. To a giant you 
 
 may not have grown. 
 But still you are learned and wise. Then 
 
 yielded the cat and replied : 
 Myself I resign to your will, and if I can 
 
 meet with a sign 
 To my right as I go on the road, -my 
 
 journey will be a success. 287 
 
■ May God, the indulgent and good, a prosperous eve to you grant." 
 
CANTO III. Si 
 
 CANTO THREE 
 
 When Tybert, the cat, had advanced a short 
 way along on his road, 
 
 In the distance a ringtail he saw, and soon 
 as he spied him he cried: 
 
 God speed you. illustrious bird! Oh, turn 
 now your pinions and fly 
 
 Down here at my right hand side! The 
 bird took his flight and disposed 
 
 Himself at the left of the cat, to sing on 
 the bough of a tree. 
 
 Now Tybert was greatly distressed, for ill- 
 luck it portended he thought, 
 
 But cheered himself up for all that, as many 
 are customed to do. 
 
 Still towards Malepartus he went, and arri- 
 ving, sir Reynard he found 
 
 Sitting in front of the house, to whom he 
 thus paid his respects: 
 
 May God, the indulgent and good, a pros- 
 perous eve to you grant; lo 
 
 Our monarch has threatened your life if you 
 shall refuse any more 
 
52 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 With me to proceed to the court; he further 
 
 directs me to say 
 That you your accusers must meet, or your 
 
 friends due atonement shall make. 
 To this did sir Reynard reply: Dear 
 
 nephew, I welcome you here, 
 That you the protection of God may enjoy 
 
 to the full is my wish. 
 But different far were the thoughts that 
 
 invaded his treacherous heart; 
 New tricks were engaging his mind; this 
 
 messenger too he would send 
 Again to the court in disgrace. This not- 
 withstanding, the cat 
 His nephew he styled, and he said: My 
 
 nephew, what can I provide 
 For you in the matter of food? One always 
 
 sleeps better when filled; 20 
 
 I am for the present your host; we will 
 
 travel tomorrow at dawn 
 Together to court; this I think will be well. 
 
 Of my relatives all. 
 To me is not anyone known upon whom I 
 
 so fully rely. 
 
CANTO III. S3 
 
 The brutal and gluttonous bear with inso- 
 lence me did approach; 
 
 Ill-tempered and strong he is both, and 
 therefore I would not for much 
 
 The journey have risked at his side. But 
 now, as a matter of course, 
 
 With you I shall cheerfully go. In the 
 morning we'll early set out 
 
 On the way^ for to me this appears by far 
 the best thing we can do. 
 
 Then Tybert responded to this : Far better 
 for us it would be 
 
 To depart straight away for the court with- 
 out more ado as we are, 30 
 For over the forest is shining the moon and 
 the roads are all dry. 
 
 To this Reynard . said : A journey by night 
 I regard as unsafe ; 
 
 By day there are many who'll greet us as 
 friends and yet, in the dark 
 
 To fall in our way should they chance, it 
 might not turn out for the best. 
 
 Now Tybert responded in turn: Just tell 
 me, my uncle, I pray. 
 
54 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 If here I remain, what then shall we eat? 
 
 And Reynard remarked : 
 But poor is our store, yet if you remain, 
 
 before you I'll set 
 Good honey all fresh in the comb ; I'll pick 
 
 out the clearest there is. 
 Such stuff I could never endure, ungraciously 
 
 answered the cat. 
 If naught in the house can be found, then 
 
 give me, I beg you, a mouse; 40 
 
 Of food this to me is the best, your honey 
 
 for others pray keep. 
 Can mice be so toothsome to you? Rfeynard 
 
 asked, let me honestly know; 
 I surely can serve you with them. My 
 
 neighbor, the priest, hath a barn 
 Below in his yard, and within it are mice; 
 
 such numbers, indeed, 
 ' That hold them a wagon could not ; and 
 
 the priest have I frequently heard 
 Complain that, by day and by night, to him 
 
 a worse pest they become. 
 The cat then imprudently said: Oh, do me 
 
 the favor, I beg, 
 
CANTO III. 55 
 
 Of leading me straight to the mice! For 
 
 to game and all else of the kind 
 The flavor of mice I prefer. And Reynard 
 
 then slyly rejoined : 
 In truth you with me shall enjoy a meal 
 
 that is fit for a lord, 50 
 
 And now that I know what for you I can 
 
 get, let us make no delay. 
 
 Tybert trustingly followed the fox. and came 
 
 to the barn of the priest. 
 To its wall which was made out of clay. 
 
 This Reynard had yesterday dug 
 Judiciously through and, by means of the 
 
 hole, from the slumbering priest 
 Had stolen the best of his cocks; and the 
 
 clergyman's dear little son. 
 Young Martin, as he had been named, was 
 
 wishing the theft to avenge; 
 For which he in front of the hole had 
 
 fastened a cord with a loop; 
 Thus hoping his bird to avenge on the 
 
 thief when again he should come. 
 
56 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Aware was Reynard of this and with it in 
 
 mind- he remarked: 
 My nephew, now crawl through the hole, and 
 
 I will keep guard at the front, 60 
 
 Meanwhile look you after the mice, for there 
 
 you will find them in swarms 
 And readily catch in the dark. Oh, listen 
 
 how gaily they squeak! 
 When enough you have had, then come 
 
 again back, and join me once more. 
 We must not from each other this evening 
 
 depart, for tomorrow, you know, 
 We early set out, and will shorten our way 
 
 with frolicsome talk. 
 Do you feel assured, said the cat, that here 
 
 it is safe to crawl in? 
 For sometimes have parsons been found a 
 
 little unchristlike in mind. 
 Here answered that scoundrel, the fox: 
 
 However could that be found out? 
 Is it timid you are? Then let us return; 
 
 my dear little wife 
 Will you with all honor receive, and fur- 
 nish a savory meal; 70 
 
CANTO III. 57 
 
 If in it no mice can be found still let us 
 
 it joyfully eat. 
 But Tybert the cat sprang in through the 
 
 hole, for he felt quite abashed 
 By the bantering words of the fox, and 
 
 straight he fell into the snare. 
 In this way the guests of sir Reynard a 
 
 bad entertainment received. 
 
 Now Tybert, as soon as he felt the tight- 
 ening cord at his throat, 
 Made a start apprehensively back, and flurried 
 
 became through alarm. 
 Then made a more vigorous jump, and 
 
 tighter the cord was thus drawn. 
 To Reynard he plaintively called, who then 
 
 with his ear at the hole 
 Was listing with rancorous joy, and thus 
 
 through the opening spake : 
 Dear Tybert, how like you the mice? You 
 
 find them, I hope, good and fat; 80 
 If only young Martin but knew that you 
 
 were consuming his game 
 
58 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 He mustard had certainly brought, for he is 
 
 a well-mannered boy. 
 At court do they sing so at meals? Suspi- 
 cious it sounds to my ears. 
 If could I but Isengrim have just now in 
 
 the hole, as I you 
 To ruin have managed to bring, he surely 
 
 should pay me for all 
 The harm that to me he hath done; and 
 
 Reynard thus went on his way. 
 He went not, however, alone to practice his 
 
 thievish designs ; 
 Adultery, murder, and treason, and theft, 
 
 to him were no sins, 
 And now he had something on hand for 
 
 himself. To the lovely and fair 
 Dame Greedimund sought he a visit to pay, 
 
 with a two-fold intent: 90 
 
 He hoped from her first to find out exactly 
 
 what Isengrim charged. 
 And second the villain desired his old 
 
 escapades to renew ; 
 To court had sir Insengrim gone, advantage 
 
 of which he would take; 
 
CANTO III. 59 
 
 For none had the shade of a doubt that 
 
 the all too apparent regard 
 Of his wife for the villainous fox had 
 
 excited the wrath of the wolf. 
 Reynard entered his mistress's house, but 
 
 failed to find her at home. 
 God bless you, my little stepchildren, he 
 
 said, no more and no less. 
 Gave an affable nod to the lads and on to 
 
 his errand he sped. 
 At morning Dame Greedimund came, as day 
 
 was beginning to break. 
 And she asked : Has nobody been to 
 
 enquire after me? And they said: loo 
 Our godfather Reynard is hardly away, and 
 
 you he would see ; 
 His little stepchildren he called us all whom 
 
 he found in the house. 
 Then shouted Dame Greedimund out: For 
 
 that he shall pay! And ran off 
 This offense to avenge the very same hour. 
 
 She had reason to know 
 Where he was accustomed to walk. She 
 
 reached him and fiercely began: 
 
6o REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Pray, what kind of language is this ? What 
 
 sort of outrageous remarks 
 Have you, without scruple or shame, in the 
 
 ears of my children pronounced ? 
 For this you shall certainly pay. Thus 
 
 fiercely she spake and displayed 
 A furious face; laid hold of his beard; and 
 
 then let him feel 
 The sharpness and strength of her teeth. 
 
 He tried to run out of her way ; no 
 She suddenly after him rushed and then 
 
 followed stirring events. 
 Not a very long distance away had a castle 
 
 in ruins its place, 
 Into which they both hurriedly ran ; now, 
 
 by reason of age and decay, 
 In the wall at one side of a tower a crack 
 
 could by fortune be seen. 
 Through this Reynard managed to slip, but 
 
 not without having to squeeze. 
 For narrow and small was the rift; then, 
 
 bulky and plump as she was. 
 The wolf stuck her head in the cleft; and 
 
 there having gotten she pressed 
 
CANTO III. 6l 
 
 And hustled and rooted and shoved, and 
 
 tried to go after the fox, 
 But only stuck faster within; she could 
 
 neither go on nor retreat. 
 When Reynard took notice of this, he ran 
 
 to the furthermost side, 120 
 
 By the tortuous path within, and tried her 
 
 once more to molest. 
 But she was not wanting for words, she 
 
 rated him well ; you behave, 
 She cried, like a knave and a thief; and 
 
 Reynard responded thereto : 
 As never has happened before, so may it 
 
 just now come to pass. 
 
 Small credit or honor it brings your wife 
 
 through another to spare. 
 As Reynard was doing just now. To the 
 
 scoundrel no matter was this. 
 When now, in due process of time, the wolf 
 
 herself freed from the crack, 
 Was Reynard already away, having gone 
 
 his own path to pursue. 
 
62 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And this made her ladyship think that the 
 law she herself would enforce, 
 
 Her honor to guard and preserve, which 
 doubly at present was lost. 130 
 
 At Tybert now let us once more take a 
 
 look. The poor forlorn chap, 
 As soon as he felt himself caught, bewailed 
 
 in the way of a cat 
 His distress. This reached little Martin's 
 
 quick ears, and he sprang out of bed. 
 Thank God, he exclaimed, the lasso I have 
 
 at a fortunate time 
 Suspended in front of the hole, for the 
 
 robber is caught, and I think 
 He will have tp pay well for the cock. 
 
 Thus did young Martin rejoice. 
 Set light to a candle in haste, (the folks in 
 
 the house were asleep), 
 His father and mother he woke and all the 
 
 domestics as well. 
 And cried: We have captuj-ed the fox, so 
 
 let us upon him now wait. 
 
CANTO III. 63 
 
 All came, both the little and big; yea, even 
 
 the parson got up 140 
 
 And wrapped in a mantle himself; and 
 
 posted ahead of them all 
 His cook with a couple of lights, and Martin 
 
 had hurriedly seized 
 A good solid cudgel, with which he devoted 
 
 himself to the cat. 
 Dealt blows both on body and head, and 
 
 knocked out in fury an eye. 
 And into him all of them pitched; there 
 
 came with a sharp pointed fork 
 The priest in great haste to the fray, 
 
 expecting to settle the thief. 
 Tybert now thought he should die; then 
 
 raving with madness he sprang 
 Between the bare legs of the priest, and 
 
 savagely bit him and scratched; 
 He terribly injured the man and avenged 
 
 without mercy his eye. 
 The priest with a scream made a rush and 
 
 fell in a faint to the ground. 150 
 
 Unadvisedly chattered the cook, that the 
 very old devil himself 
 
64 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Had managed the matter to play her a 
 
 trick; and doubly she swore, 
 Yea threefold indeed, how joyftiUy she 
 
 would have lost, if this harm 
 Had not to her master been done, her 
 
 entire little bit of effects. 
 Yea, swore that the loss of a treasure of 
 
 gold, if one she possessed, 
 She certainly would not regret; she without 
 
 it could very well do. 
 Thus bemoaned she her master's disgrace 
 
 and the terrible wounds he'd received. 
 At length with full many laments, they laid 
 
 him again on his bed. 
 And Tybert they left in the cord where 
 
 him they completely forgot. 
 
 When Tybert, the cat, now himself found all 
 alone in his woe, 160 
 
 So grievously beaten and covered with 
 wounds, and so near unto death. 
 
 He seized, out of sheer love of life, the 
 cord and began it to gnaw. 
 
CANTO III. 65 
 
 Is there no way to get myself out of this 
 horrible scrape ? So he thought, 
 
 And carried his point; the cord snapped 
 in two. How happy he felt 
 
 As he hastened to flee from the place 
 where he so much pain had endured. 
 
 He nimbly escaped from the hole and then 
 in a trice made his way 
 
 With speed to the court of the king, and 
 on the next morning arrived. 
 
 He angrily chided himself: So the devil 
 has yet been obliged 
 
 You, through Reynard's deceit, that traitor 
 most vile, to subdue. 
 
 You come again back in disgrace, an eye 
 having lost from your head, 170 
 
 And bitterly laden with stripes, how com- 
 pletely ashamed you must be. 
 
 The wrath of the king waxed heavy and 
 hot; with threats he ordained 
 
 That death to the traitor be dealt, without 
 any favor or grace ; 
 
66 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Then ordered his council convoked. His 
 
 nobles and legal adepts 
 Arrived in response to his call, and he 
 
 asked how the miscreant should 
 Be finally brought to account, who now had 
 
 so guilty been shown. 
 As increasing complaints about Reynard 
 
 were constantly being received, 
 Thus Grimbart the badger held forth: In 
 
 this court of justice there are, 
 No doubt, a great number of lords who of 
 
 Reynard but evil can think, 
 But still to a freeman's just rights must 
 
 violence never be done. i8o 
 
 A third time he sumnioned must be; when 
 
 this has been legally done. 
 If he fail his appearance to make, the law 
 
 may him guilty pronounce. 
 The monarch responded to this: I fear that 
 
 of all there's not one 
 Who would a third summons convey to the 
 
 crafty and treacherous knave; 
 For who has more eyes than he wants ? 
 
 And who is fool-hardy enough 
 
CANTO III. 67 
 
 To endanger his limbs and his life, on 
 account of this mutinous scamp ? 
 
 To put to such hazard his health, and 
 nevertheless at the end 
 
 Reynard fail to arrest ? I can think not of 
 one who would make the attempt. 
 
 The badger replied very loud: Lord King, 
 
 if it please you to make 
 A demand such as this upon me, I at once 
 
 will the errand perform, 190 
 
 Let it be whatsoever it may. Officially will 
 
 you me send, 
 Or go I as if of myself ? You have .noth- 
 ing to do but command. 
 The king thus assigned him the task : You 
 
 may go! All the charges you've heard, 
 As they have together been brought; but 
 
 • go you with wisdom to work. 
 For he is a dangerous man. And Grimbart 
 
 then said in reply: 
 This once I will venture the task, and hope 
 
 that I yet shall him bring. 
 
68 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Thus started he off on the road towards 
 
 Malepartus, the fort. 
 Reynard he found in the place with wife 
 
 and with children, and said : 
 Uncle Reynard, I wish you good day ! Full 
 
 of learning and wisdom you are. 
 And judicious regarded as well ; we are all 
 
 with astonishment filled 200 
 
 That you the behest of the king disregard, 
 
 I may say, even mock. 
 To you seems it not that the time has 
 
 arrived ? Received from all sides 
 Are constantly growing complaints and evil 
 
 reports. I advise 
 That you with me come to the court; delay 
 
 will no longer avail. 
 Already have many complaints been brought 
 
 to the ears of the king, 
 And the summons I bring yoil to-day is 
 
 the third that to you has been sent. 
 Surrender you not, condemned you will be; 
 
 and then will the king 
 Hither his vassals conduct, and you will 
 
 besiege, and reduce 
 
CANTO III. 69 
 
 Malepartus, this stronghold of yours; and 
 
 thus will to ruin be brought 
 Your wife and your children and goods, and 
 
 life you will certainly lose. 210 
 
 The king you can never elude, so the very 
 
 best thing you can do 
 Is to travel with me to the court. Of cun- 
 ning devices and turns 
 You never will want; you have them on 
 
 hand yourself to get free. 
 For you have assuredly oft, yea, even when 
 
 present in court, 
 Adventures encountered far greater than this, 
 
 and always contrived 
 To come from them all with eclat, and 
 
 leave your opponents disgraced. 
 
 Thus ended sir Grimbart his speech and 
 
 Reynard responded thereto; 
 Dear uncle, you counsel me well, that I 
 
 put in appearance at court 
 In person my rights to defend. I earnestly 
 
 hope that the king 
 
70 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Will grant me his grace; he knows of what 
 
 service to him I can be, 220 
 
 And also is fully aware how much I am 
 
 hated for this. 
 No court can be held without me. And 
 
 had I yet ten times as much 
 Done amiss, still without hesitation I know 
 
 that if I can succeed 
 Him to meet to his face and before him to 
 
 plead, he will certainly find 
 The ire in his breast overcome. There are 
 
 many, indeed, who attend 
 Our monarch day in and day out, and have 
 
 in his council a seat,- 
 But naught about these does he care; among 
 
 the whole lot can be found 
 Neither reason nor sense. At every session, 
 
 however, of court, 
 Wherever it is I may be, the decree to 
 
 my wisdom is left. 
 When monarch and nobles convene, in criti- 
 cal matters of state 230 
 To formulate prudent advice, it is Reynard 
 
 who has it to find.. 
 
CANTO III. 71 
 
 There are many who envy me this; and, 
 
 alas, I must be on my guard, 
 For they've sworn to encompass my death, 
 
 and the wickedest far of them all 
 Just now are together at court, which cer- 
 tainly gives me concern. 
 Over ten can I count, and mighty ones too, 
 
 then how by myself 
 Can I such a number withstand ? For this 
 
 have I made such delay. 
 I think it, however, now well to accompany 
 
 you to the court, 
 My suit at the bar to defend; this me 
 
 greater honor will bring 
 Than through any slackness of rtiine my 
 
 wife and my offspring to plunge 
 Into dangers and griefs -without end; we 
 every one should be lost, 240 
 
 For the king is too mighty for me, and be 
 
 it whatever it may, 
 The same must I do so soon as commanded 
 
 by him ; we can try 
 To make with our enemies there some use- 
 ful arrangement, perhaps. 
 
72 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Reynard then said to his wife: Look after 
 
 ' the children, I beg ! 
 And more than of even the rest, take care 
 
 of the youngest, Reinhart, 
 With his fine set of teeth in his dear little 
 
 mouth; I hope that he will 
 His father's true image become, and here's 
 
 Rossell, the arch little rogue. 
 Who is just as endeared to my heart. For 
 
 both of the children I beg. 
 Do the best that you can while I'm gone! 
 
 I will it you amply repay 
 Should I luckily come again back, and you 
 
 to my counsel give heed. 250 
 
 With this he departed from thence, attend 
 
 by Grimbart, his friend; 
 Left Ermelyn there with both of her sons 
 
 and hurried away; 
 He left ill-provided his house, which made 
 
 very anxious his wife. 
 
 Not yet a short hour on the road had pro- 
 ceeded together the two 
 
CANTO III. 73 
 
 When Reynard to Grimbart thus spake : 
 
 Dear nephew, most worthy of friends, 
 To you I'm compelled to avow that I trem- 
 ble all over with fear; 
 I cannot myself get away frofn the bitter 
 
 and terrible thought 
 That verily I am pursuing the road to 
 
 my death. Thus I see 
 My sins all before me displayed, all ever 
 
 committed by me. 
 You cannot imagine the dread with which 
 
 I now find myself filled. 260 
 
 Pray let me confess, give ear to my words, 
 
 for no other priest 
 Can be hereabouts found, and if a clean 
 
 breast I now make of them all. 
 No worse on account of the same shall I 
 
 stand in the mind of my king. 
 Grimbart then said: First you must robbing 
 
 and stealing give up, 
 All scandalous breaches of faith and other 
 
 accustomed deceits. 
 Or confession will do you no good. I know 
 
 it, responded the fox. 
 
74 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 So let me begin on the spot, and you with 
 attention give ear. 
 
 Cpnfiteor tibi, Pater et Mater, that I on the 
 
 cat, 
 The otter, and many besides right numer- 
 ous antics have played, 
 I confess it and freely submit myself to the 
 
 penance entailed. 270 
 
 Speak English, the badger replied, whereby 
 
 I may know what you mean. 
 At this Reynard said : I cannot deny that 
 
 I certainly have 
 Transgressed against all of the beasts at 
 
 present existing on earth; 
 For instance, my uncle the bear, whom I 
 
 caught in the limb of a tree, 
 Whose head was all covered with blood, 
 
 and who was so wounded with blows. 
 Then Tybert I led after mice, but yet held 
 
 him fast in a cord. 
 Very much was he forced to endure and 
 
 met with the loss of an eye. 
 
CANTO III. 75 
 
 So Henning with reason complained, for 
 
 him of his children I robbed, 
 Both little and big as they came, and found 
 
 them quite good to the taste. 
 I excepted not even the king, and manifold 
 
 capers and tricks 280 
 
 With boldness I've played upon him, and 
 
 too on his consort, the queen. 
 From which she but lately got well. And 
 
 further I'm bound to confess 
 That Isengrim have I, the wolf, with 
 
 industry greatly disgraced ; 
 But time have I not the whole to relate. 
 
 I always him called 
 My uncle, but only in jest, for between us 
 
 no kinship exists. 
 Now once on a time, nearly six years ago, 
 
 he came to Elkmar, 
 When there in the convent I lived, to see 
 
 me and ask me for help. 
 Because he a notion had formed of becoming 
 
 a monk ; he thought 
 It might be a profession for him; so gave 
 
 a good pull at the bell. 
 
•](} REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And greatly the ringing enjoyed. Thereon 
 
 his front paws I made fast 290 
 
 In the rope that was tied to the bell. He 
 
 did not demur and, thus fixed, 
 He pulled and diverted himself, and seemed 
 
 to be learning the bells ; 
 Yet could not, however, the art but a bad 
 
 reputation him bring. 
 For as stupid and crazy he rang, till all of 
 
 the people around 
 Collected with haste in dismay from every 
 
 alley and street, 
 For certain they felt that a grievous disas- 
 ter had come to the town. 
 They came and discovered him there, and 
 
 before he could even explain 
 His wish to embrace the clerical life, he 
 
 was suddenly caught 
 By the surging and furious crowd, and 
 
 almost was beaten tO' death. 
 Yet still did the fool in, his purpose persist, 
 
 and even implored 300 
 
 That I with due honor would see that a 
 
 tonsure for him was procured ; 
 
CANTO III. "Jl 
 
 I therefore had cut the hair on his crown 
 
 and so thoroughly singed 
 That frizzled with heat was the skin and 
 
 parched as a pea that is baked. 
 Thus often for him I prepared hard cuffs, 
 
 severe kicks, and disgrace. 
 And I taught him the way to catch fish, 
 
 which never do with him agree. 
 He followed me once to the border of 
 
 France, when jointly we stole 
 To the house where a parson abode, the 
 
 richest of all thereabouts. 
 This parson a storehouse possessed with a 
 
 number of savory hams , 
 Of bacon some long tender sides he kept 
 
 there for curing as well. 
 And likewise a tub full of meat but recently 
 
 placed in the brine. 310 
 
 Now Isengrim managed, at length, in the 
 
 wall, which of stone was composed, 
 A hole of some measure to scratch, through 
 
 which he might easily go. 
 I jogged him along at the work, his avarice 
 
 also him urged ; 
 
78 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 But amid the profusion he found he could 
 
 not restrain his desires, 
 But stuffed without measure himself, by 
 
 reason of which did the cleft 
 Put a powerful curb on his much swollen 
 
 frame and checked his return. 
 Oh ! how he denounced the perfidious thing, 
 
 that allowed him to pass 
 When hungry within, but would not permit 
 
 him when filled to go back ! 
 Thereon in the village I raised a hubbub 
 
 and outcry so great 
 That soon I excited the folk to look for 
 
 the trail of the wolf; 320 
 
 Then ran to the clergyman's house, and 
 
 came on him having a meal. 
 Just as before him was placed a capon, 
 
 young, tender, and cooked 
 To a T, so upon it I swooped and carried 
 
 it off in my mouth. 
 Up jumped the good priest with a scream, 
 
 and after me tried to pursue. 
 And the table knocked over with all that 
 
 was on it to eat and to drink. 
 
CANTO III. 79 
 
 Catch and belabor him well; kick him out, 
 
 cried the furious priest, 
 Then cooled off his wrath in a pool that 
 
 lay unobserved in his way, 
 Wherein he now floundered full length ; and 
 
 people rushed in crying: Strike! 
 At this I ran off from the place and after 
 
 me all in a crowd 
 Who to me the most venomous felt. The 
 
 parson was heard above all: 330 
 
 The bold and audacious thief! he took from 
 
 my table the fowl ! 
 Then ran I as fast as I could until I 
 
 arrived at the barn, 
 And there, much against my desire, I let 
 
 the bird slip to the earth, 
 As I, to my grief, too heavy it found; and 
 
 thus to the crowd 
 I was lost, but the fowl was regained, and 
 
 as the priest raised it aloft 
 Became he aware of the wolf in the barn, 
 
 and the crowd saw him too. 
 The father now called to them all : Come 
 
 quickly and pummel him well ; 
 
8o REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 To our hands has a different thief, a wolf, 
 
 been delivered instead ; 
 Away should he get, disgraced we should be, 
 
 and truly would all 
 Be laughing at our expense from the east 
 
 to the west of the land. 340 
 
 The wolf some hard thinking now did; 
 
 upon him fell blows like the rain. 
 On his body in every part, and inflicted 
 
 most torturing wounds. 
 All shouted as loud as they could, and the 
 
 men who behind had been left 
 In a body together rushed up and felled him 
 
 for dead to the earth. 
 He never, so long as he'd lived, had met 
 
 with afifiiction so great; 
 If one should on canvass it paint, it very 
 
 astounding would be 
 To notice how he the good priest repaid 
 
 for his bacon and hams. 
 They bundled him out on the road and 
 
 seized him and dragged him pellmell 
 Through hedges and ditches and mud, till 
 
 in him no life could be traced; 
 
CANTO III. 8 1 
 
 He made himself dirty and foul, and hence, 
 
 with abhorrence and hate, 350 
 
 He out of the village was cast, and left in 
 
 a deep filthy pool. 
 They thinking at last he was dead. In such 
 
 ignominious swoon 
 I know not how long he remained, ere he 
 
 conscious became of his woe ; 
 And how after all he got off, that too have 
 
 I never found out. 
 And yet not long since (it may be a year) 
 
 he swore that to me 
 Ever faithful and true he would be, but 
 
 this did not last very long. 
 Now why he did thus to me swear I was 
 
 able with ease to conceive. 
 I came on him once when he wished his 
 
 fill of some fowls to procure; 
 And, so as to play him a trick, I pictured 
 
 with clearness and care 
 A beam upon which, as a rule, a cock in 
 
 the evening would roost, 360 
 
 With seven fat hens at his side. I guided 
 
 him then to the place. 
 
82 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 In stillness and darkness of night, as twelve 
 by the clock had been struck; 
 
 The sash of the window, I knew, was raised 
 with a thin piece of wood. 
 
 And stood ready o^en for use, so in I pre- 
 tended to go, 
 
 But then I surrendered my place, and my 
 uncle I asked to go iirst, 
 
 And said: Proceed boldly within; on well- 
 fattened hens you will come. 
 
 If you your fair lady would win, you must 
 never faint-hearted become. 
 
 Very cautiously crawled he inside and groped 
 with the greatest of care 
 
 Hither and thither about, and at length he 
 indignantly said : 
 
 Oh, how you have led me astray! Of fowls, 
 in good truth, I can find 370 
 
 Not a feather. I said: The birds that in 
 front were accustomed to sit 
 
 Myself I have carried away, the others are 
 further behind; 
 
 Without hesitation go on and mind that 
 with caution you step. 
 
CANTO III. 83 
 
 The beam was undoubtedly small on which 
 
 we so carefully walked, 
 Yet I kept him in front and myself well 
 
 behind; then backwards I made 
 My way through the window again, and 
 
 gave a good tug at the wood; 
 Down came the sash with a bang, and the 
 
 wolf made a start of alarm ; 
 In shaking he fell from the beam and came 
 
 in a heap to the ground. 
 Now, affrighted, the people awoke, who all 
 
 were asleep by the fire. 
 What fell in the window? they cried, in 
 
 direst confusion and fear; 380 
 
 Without loss of time they arose; and, speed- 
 ily lighting the lamp, 
 Him down in the corner they found, and 
 
 struck him and polished his skin 
 To the fullest extent of their strength; it 
 
 surprises me how he escaped. 
 
 Still further to you I confess, that I to 
 dame Greedimund oft 
 
84 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 In secret have gone, and openly too. Now 
 
 certainly that 
 Ought not to have ever occurred, and I 
 
 wish I had left it undone. 
 For, live she as long as she may, her 
 
 shame she will scarcely repair. 
 
 I now have confessed to you all that, 
 
 endeavor as much as I may, 
 I am able to bring to my mind, and it 
 
 heavily weighs on my soul. 
 Absolve me, I pray you, therefrom, and 
 
 meekly be sure that I will 390 
 
 All penance perform to its end, no matter 
 
 how much you impose. 
 
 Already to Grimbart 'twas known how he 
 
 in such case should proceed; 
 He broke off a twig on the way, and said: 
 
 Strike, uncle, yourself 
 Three times on the back with this twig, 
 
 and then put it carefully down. 
 
CANTO III. 85 
 
 In the manner I show, on the earth and 
 as many times over it jump; 
 
 With meekness then kissing the twig your- 
 self fitly dutiful show; 
 
 Such is the penance I lay upon you, and 
 pronounce you from all 
 
 Your sins and all chastisements free and dis- 
 charged. I fully forgive 
 
 You all in the name of the Lord, whatever 
 it be you have done. 
 
 When Reynard the penance enjoined had 
 
 duly performed to the end, 400 
 
 Then Grimbart most solemnly said: My 
 
 uncle, let now in good works 
 Be clear your repentance to all; the psalms 
 
 also read and attend 
 The churches with zeal, and fast on the 
 
 days appointed by law. 
 To him who may ask show clearly the way 
 
 and give to the poor 
 Without stint, and unto me swear your 
 
 infamous life to forsake; 
 
86 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 All plundering, robbing, and theft, seduc- 
 tion and treason avoid. 
 
 For certain it is that by this you alone 
 will to mercy attain. 
 
 Then Reynard replied : I will do as you 
 say, I pledge you my word. 
 
 Thus was the shrift at an end, and then 
 they continued their way 
 
 To palace and court of the king; the saint- 
 ly Grimbart and he 410 
 
 Then threaded a blackish and fertile ex- 
 panse, where a convent they saw 
 
 On the right hand side of the road, in 
 which holy women engaged 
 
 In serving of God from morning to night, 
 and kept in their yard 
 
 Of cocks a great number and hens and 
 many fine capons as well. 
 
 Who wandered at times for their food a 
 distance outside of the wall. 
 
 Where Reynard had called on them oft. 
 So now unto Grimbart he said: 
 
CANTO III. 87 
 
 Our speediest way is to pass along by the 
 
 side of this wall. 
 But set were his thoughts on the fowls, 
 
 how they were out taking the air. 
 So there his confessor he led, till near to 
 
 the birds they approached; 
 Then the scamp to and fro in his head set 
 
 rolling his covetous eyes. 420 
 
 He was pleased above all with a cock, in 
 
 splendid condition and young, 
 Which firmly he fixed in his eye, as he 
 
 strutted astern of the rest; 
 Behind him he hastily sprang, and the 
 
 feathers a-flying began. 
 
 Indignantly Grimbart reproved the shameful 
 
 relapse of the fox : 
 Base nephew, behave you like this, and 
 
 would you already again 
 Make a sinful attack on a fowl so soon 
 
 after you have been shrived? 
 Such penitence seems to me fine! And 
 
 Reynard to Grimbart replied : 
 
88 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Dear uncle, if even in thought I such a 
 
 thing can have done, 
 Then pray unto God that he may in mercy 
 
 forgive me the sin. 
 I gladly forbear and never will do so again. 
 
 Then they went 430 
 
 Round about by the convent again to their 
 
 road, and thus were obliged 
 To cross a diminutive bridge, and Reynard 
 
 behind him cast eyes 
 A second time after the fowls; he could not 
 
 himself keep in check; 
 Had anyone cut off his head, without any 
 
 question it would 
 Have fiov/n in pursuit of the birds, so vehe- 
 ment was his desire. 
 
 Grimbart observed this and cried: Where let 
 
 you, my nephew, your eyes 
 Again wend their way ? Of a 'truth, an 
 
 odious glutton you are! 
 Said Reynard, much pained, in reply: My 
 
 uncle, you do me a wrong; 
 
'Had any one cut ofB his head, without any question it would 
 Have flown in pursuit of the birds." 
 
CANTO III. 89 
 
 Do not so excited become, and disturb not, 
 
 I beg you, my prayers, 
 But a paternoster allow me me to say, for 
 
 the souls of the fowls 440 
 
 And geese are in need of the same, as many 
 
 as I from the nuns, 
 Those heaven-born women, have filched, by 
 
 use of my prudence and skill. 
 Grimbart said not a word, and the fox 
 
 turned his head not away from the fowls 
 So long as in sight they remained. They 
 
 managed, however, at length, 
 The road they had left to regain and began 
 
 to draw near to the court; 
 And as Reynard the castle observed, in 
 
 which dwelt his master the king. 
 He inwardly troubled became, for the charges 
 
 against him were grave. 447 
 
90 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 CANTO FOUR. 
 
 When rumour got spread at the court that 
 
 Reynard was coming indeed, 
 To see him all hurried outside, both noble 
 
 and common alike, 
 And few of them friendly disposed; nearly 
 
 all had complaints to prefer. 
 But Reynard undoubtedly thought that this 
 
 no significance had ; 
 At least so he carried himself, as with 
 
 Grimbart the badger he came. 
 This moment with boldness and grace, along 
 
 through the principal street. 
 Courageous and calm he advanced, as if, of 
 
 a truth, he had been 
 Own son and true heir of the king, and 
 
 free and devoid of all fault; 
 Yea! thus before Leo he stepped, and took 
 
 in the palace his place 
 Right up in the midst of the lords; he knew 
 
 how to feign unconcern. lo 
 
CANTO IV. 91 
 
 Illustrious king and worshipful lord, he began 
 
 to declaim, 
 Most noble and mighty you are, foremost in 
 
 merit and rank ; 
 I therefore you humbly entreat to hear me 
 
 with justice today. 
 Of your majesty's servitors all, not a soul 
 
 more devoted than I 
 Has ever been found; this without hesitation 
 
 I dare to maintain ; 
 And many I know at the court, who would 
 
 gladly oppress me for that. 
 To me would your friendship be lost, if now, 
 
 my enemies wish. 
 The lies they disseminate should, perchance, 
 
 to you credible seem. 
 But you, as is lucky for me, investigate 
 
 every complaint. 
 As fully accused as accusers you hear; and, 
 
 though they have told 20 
 
 Many falsehoods behind my back, yet tran- 
 quil I rest and reflect 
 That well you rtiy loyalty know, which 
 
 brings persecution on me. 
 
92 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Be silent! responded the king, no prattle 
 
 or fawning will help ; 
 Your iniquities din in our ears, and punish- 
 ment now you awaits. " 
 Regard have you had for the peace, that I 
 
 to the beasts have proclaimed 
 And sworn to maintain? There stands the 
 
 cock ! His children have you, 
 Malicious and treacherous thief, one after 
 
 another destroyed ! 
 And for me the depth of your love, you 
 
 wish, I presume, to evince 
 When you my authority spurn, and my 
 
 servants so grossly abuse! 
 The health of poor Tybert's destroyed, and 
 
 by slow and distressing degrees 30 
 
 Will' the suffering bear get well of the 
 
 wounds inflicted by you. 
 But I will you not further reproach, for 
 
 here are accusers enough, 
 And acts that are proved to the hilt; you 
 
 hardly this time can escape. 
 
CANTO IV. 93 
 
 Am I, most benevolent sire, for this to be 
 guilty adjudged? 
 
 Reynard said. Do I incur blame if Bruin, 
 with blood-covered crown, 
 
 Came limping again to you back? If he 
 took the risk, and presumed 
 
 On Rusteviel's honey to feed, and the half- 
 witted peasants against 
 
 Him lifted their hands, yet still is he strong 
 and enormous of limb. 
 
 If they blows and abuse on him cast, ere 
 into the water he ran. 
 
 He could, as a vigorous man, the onset 
 with ease have repelled. 40 
 
 And also, if Tybert the cat, whom I with 
 due honor received 
 
 And treated as well as I could, from steal- 
 ing could not himself keep. 
 
 But into the house of the priest, although I 
 him faithfully warned. 
 
 Went sneaking when night had set it, and 
 there made acquaintance with grief. 
 
 Have I retribution deserved because he be- 
 haved like a fool? 
 
94 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Too near to your princely crown, indeed, 
 
 would the consequence lie! 
 With me, to be sure, you can deal in accord 
 
 with your sovereign will. 
 And, clear as the case may appear, may 
 
 give what decision you please, 
 Whether be it to weal or be it to woe the 
 
 matter may tend. 
 If I'm to be roasted or boiled, if I'm to be 
 
 blinded or hanged, 50 
 
 Or beheaded indeed, I am perfectly willing 
 
 that so it be done. 
 We are all in the grasp of your power, 
 
 completely are we in your hands; 
 For you are majestic and strong, how then 
 
 can the helpless resist? 
 If you put me to death, by that, of a 
 
 truth, very little you gain. 
 Let happen, however, what may, I loyally 
 
 yield to the law. 
 
 Then Bellyn the ram began to remark: 
 The time has arrived 
 
CANTO IV. ■ 95 
 
 To advance our complaints. And then with 
 
 his relatives, Tybert the cat 
 And Bruin the bear, and a legion of beasts, 
 
 lord Isengrim came ; 
 Also Baldwin the ass and Lampen the hare 
 
 presented themselves ; 
 And Nidget the puppy appeared, with the 
 
 bulldog Rhyn and the doe, 60 
 
 Named Metke, with Herman the buck ; and 
 
 squirrel and weasel, as well 
 As the ermine, were added thereto. Nor 
 
 did either the ox or the horse 
 Neglect to be there. Near by could be 
 
 seen the beasts of the chase. 
 Among them the stag and the roe; and 
 
 Bockert the beaver came too. 
 With marten and rabbit and boar; together 
 
 they all crowded in ; 
 Bartolt the stork and Pica the jay and 
 
 Grusley the crane 
 Came* flying across with Tibke the duck 
 
 and Alheid the goose; 
 And others besides came hurrying in with 
 
 their troubles and woes. 
 
96 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Henning, the grief-stricken cock, with his 
 
 children, now but a few. 
 Made bitter complaint; and hither there 
 
 came without number the birds, 70 
 
 And a concourse so great of the beasts that 
 
 no one could mention their names. 
 All made an attack on the fox, and hoped 
 
 that his many misdeeds 
 They now into question might bring, and 
 
 inflicted his punishment see. 
 In front of the monarch they pressed, with 
 
 vehement, furious speech ; 
 Charges on charges they heaped, and narra- 
 tives ancient and new 
 Introduced. In one single sitting of court 
 
 there never had been 
 Brought up to the throne of the king, so 
 
 many complaints to be heard. 
 His place Reynard took and proceeded with 
 
 skill his defence to conduct. 
 He began his address, and forth from his 
 
 mouth the eloquent words 
 Of his justification outflowed, as it they 
 
 were obvious truth. 80 
 
CANTO IV. 97 
 
 He was master of what to present and what 
 
 to say nothing about; 
 And his auditors all were amazed, and 
 
 thought he was innocent shown. 
 He even had claims of his own to put in, 
 
 and charges to make. 
 At length there rose up to their feet some 
 
 genuine, trustworthy men, 
 Who posted themselves by the fox, against 
 
 him their evidence gave, 
 And all of his wickedness clearly made 
 
 known. That settled the case. 
 For then, with unanimous voice, the court 
 
 of the king resolved 
 That Reynard the fox was worthy of death ; 
 
 that he should be seized, 
 Imprisoned and hanged by the neck, in 
 
 order that he be compelled 
 For his infamous crimes to atone with an 
 
 ignominious death. 90 
 
 Just now did Reynard himself consider the 
 game as all up. 
 
98 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Not very much good had been done by his 
 cunning harangue. The king 
 
 Pronounced sentence himself : , and then was 
 the criminal's pitiful end, 
 
 As him they imprisoned and bound, paraded 
 in sight of his eyes. 
 
 As Reynard there stood, shackled according 
 
 to sentence and law. 
 His foes were bestirring themselves to lead 
 
 him at once to his death ; 
 But his friends stood about in dismay, quite 
 
 overcome with their grief, 
 Grimbart and Martin the ape, with others 
 
 of kin to the fox. 
 The sentence with umbrage they heard, and 
 
 all were more filled with regret 
 Than expected might be; for Reynard of 
 
 barons was one of the chief: 100 
 
 And there he now stood, of all of his 
 
 honors and offices stripped 
 And doomed to a shameful death. How now 
 
 must the' scene they surveyed 
 
CANTO IV. 99 
 
 His kinsmen have cut to the quick ! In a 
 
 body together they took 
 Their leave of the king, and withdrew from 
 
 the court, to the last that was there. 
 
 The monarch, however, it vexed, that so 
 
 many knights should depart 
 From him thus. It now could be seen how 
 
 great was the crowd of his kin 
 Who had gone, in their great discontent at 
 
 Reynard's impending doom. 
 And thus did his majesty speak to one of 
 
 his trustiest friends : 
 Undoubtedly Reynard is vile; we must, for 
 
 all that, bear in mind 
 That many relations he has, who cannot be 
 
 spared from the court. no 
 
 ■But Isengrim, Bruin, and Tybert the cat, 
 
 all three of them were 
 About the poor captive at work; impatient 
 
 the infamous death. 
 
lOO REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 As awarded had been by the king, to 
 
 execute now on their foe; 
 So hurriedly dragged. him outside, and the 
 
 gallows beheld from afar. 
 And now the tom-cat to the wolf began, in 
 
 his fury, to speak : 
 Consider, lord Isengrim, well, how Reynard 
 
 once schemed in all ways. 
 And everything did that he could, and suc- 
 ceeded, too, in his hate. 
 On the gallows your brother to see. How 
 
 joyously marched he along 
 With him to the place of his doom ! 
 
 Neglect not to pay him the debt. 
 And remember, sir Bruin as well, how 
 
 shamefully you he betrayed, 120 
 
 Below there in Rusteviel's yard, to the 
 
 boorish and furious clowns, 
 Male and female alike, and scurvily left 
 
 you to wounds and to blows. 
 And the shame thereupon that, ensued, 
 
 which now in all regions is known. 
 Take care and your efforts unite, for if he 
 
 escape us to-day, 
 
CANTO IV. ' 10 1 
 
 And freedom contrive to procure, by his 
 
 wit and insidious arts, 
 A time for our precious revenge will never 
 
 be granted again ; 
 So let us make haste and avenge the 
 
 wrongs he has done to us all. 
 
 Then Isengrim said: What use are your 
 words? Go, bring me at once 
 
 A reliable cord; with that we will soon put 
 him out of his pain! 
 
 Thus spake they ill of the fox and jour- 
 neyed along on the road. 130 
 
 In silence heard Reynard their words; at 
 
 length he, however, began : 
 Since me you so bitterly hate, and thirst 
 
 for a deadly revenge, 
 I am greatly surprised that you seem not 
 
 to know how to bring it about! 
 Your Tybert is fully informed where a good 
 
 trusty rope may be found. 
 
I02 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 For he did it most carefully test, when into 
 the house of the priest 
 
 He thrust himself in after mice, and did 
 not with honor return. 
 
 But, Isengrim, you and the bear are mak- 
 ing such terrible haste 
 
 Your uncle to bring to his end, of course 
 you intend to succeed. 
 
 The monarch arose from his seat, with all 
 the noblesse of his court. 
 
 The sentence to see carried out; and also 
 was present the queen, 140 
 
 Who with the procession had come, by her 
 ladies escorted in state ; 
 
 And behind them a multitude flocked, com- 
 posed of the poor and the rich, 
 
 All wishing for Reynard's decease, and hop- 
 ing to see it take place. 
 
 Isengrim uttered meanwhile a word to his 
 kinsmen and friends, 
 
 Exhorting them all to be sure compactly 
 together to hold, 
 
CANTO IV. 103 
 
 And keep on the manacled fox a steady and 
 
 vigilant eye ; 
 For they were in constant dread of the 
 
 shrewd fellow's getting away. 
 The wolf, above all, commanded his wife: 
 
 If you set any store 
 On your life, take heed to my words and 
 
 help us the rascal to hold! 
 If he manage to get himself free, we all 
 
 are involved in disgrace. 150 
 
 And further to Bruin he said: Bethink 
 
 how he held you in scorn ! 
 With usury now can you pay the whole of 
 
 your debt to him back. 
 Tybert is able to climb, and above shall he 
 
 fasten the rope. 
 You hold him and give me your help, and 
 
 I will the ladder remove; 
 Then all, in a minute or two, with this 
 
 knave will be brought to an end. 
 Said the bear: Put the ladder in place, and 
 
 I will him certainly hold. 
 
I04 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 See now, Reynard said when they'd done, 
 
 how exceedingly busy you are 
 In leading your uncle to death ! I should 
 
 think you would rather him guard 
 And protect; and, in his distress, would 
 
 some little pity display; 
 I gladly for mercy would beg, but what 
 
 should I profit by that? i6o 
 
 Isengrim hates me o'ermuch ; yea, even 
 
 his wife he has told 
 To hold me and see to it well that the 
 
 way of escape is cut off. 
 Should she but reflect on the past, then 
 
 could she not injure me now; 
 But if I am doomed to be slain, I earnestly 
 
 wish that it might 
 Be speedily done. My father too came into 
 
 frightful distress. 
 But yet at the last it was quick. There 
 
 attended, I know, at his death 
 Not quite such a number as here. If 
 
 longer, however, you mean 
 Me to keep in suspense, then must it in 
 
 truth redound to your shame. 
 
CANTO IV. 105 
 
 Do you hear, said Bruin the bear, how 
 
 boldly the vagabond talks? 
 Come on! String him up out of hand! 
 
 The time for his end has arrived. 170 
 
 Earnestly now did Reynard reflect : Oh ! 
 
 could I but think. 
 At once, of some artifice new, to aid me 
 
 in this urgent need, 
 Whereby might the king, in his grace, with 
 
 clemency grant me my life, 
 And these, my implacable foes, all three, 
 
 into shame might be thrown ! 
 Of all let me think, and then must things 
 
 shift for themselves, for here 
 Is in question ' my neck ! Not a moment to 
 
 lose ! How shall I escape ? 
 Evils of all kinds upon me are heaped. 
 
 The king is displeased. 
 My friends are all melted away, and matters 
 
 controlled by my foes. 
 I have rarely done anything good, and even 
 
 the might of the king, 
 
I06 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 As well as his council's advice, have I truly 
 
 but little esteemed. i8o 
 
 I am guilty of much that is wrong, and 
 
 yet my ill-luck have I hoped, 
 Each time, to avert. Had I but the 
 
 chance to say a few words, 
 I surely should then not be hanged; I 
 
 will not abandon the hope. 
 
 His back to the ladder he turned, with face 
 
 to the people below. 
 And cried : Before me I see the grim fig- 
 ure of death, and can him 
 Not escape. And now from you all, as 
 
 many as hear me, I beg 
 But a little extension of time, before I 
 
 depart from the earth. 
 Indeed I should very much like, to you my 
 
 confession sincere 
 To publicly make for the last time on 
 
 earth, and truly disclose 
 Whatever of harm I have done, so that to 
 
 another, perchance, 190 
 
>g.«A<itt.w^.^^-r -^- fe ,-'«=-^..r^. ^i^.->-, 
 
'Indeed, I should very much like, to you my confession sincere. 
 To publicly make, <for the last time on earth. " 
 
CANTO IV. 107 
 
 May not, in the future, be laid this crimi- 
 nal action or that, 
 
 Till now unsuspected by you, but done 
 under cover by me; 
 
 That I may thereby, at the last, much evil 
 prevent, and may hope 
 
 That God, in his fullness of grace, will 
 remember me now in my need. 
 
 A number to pity were moved, and one to 
 
 another they said: 
 Small is the favor and short the reprieve. 
 
 They petitioned the king. 
 And the king conceded their prayer. Then 
 
 again did Reynard become 
 A little more lightsome of heart, and hoped 
 
 for a happy result ; 
 The granted occasion he turned to account, 
 
 and as follows he spake : 
 Spiritus Domini, come to my aid! Not 
 
 one do I see, 200 
 
 In all the vast concourse that's here, whom 
 
 I have not some time ill-used. 
 
I08 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 First, I was yet but a youngster small, and 
 
 the breast of my dam 
 Had hardly forgotten to suck, when my 
 
 passions I followed unchecked 
 Among the young lambs and the goats 
 
 that, a distance apart from the flock, 
 At play were dispersed in the fields; their 
 
 dear bleating voices I heard 
 Too gladly by far, as a craving I got for 
 
 more delicate food. 
 And soon their acquaintance I made. One 
 
 lambkin I slew with my teeth. 
 And drank up its blood ; it tasted so good 
 
 that I killed and devoured 
 Also four of the youngest goats, and thus 
 
 further training obtained. 
 I exempted no kind of a bird, not a fowl, 
 
 nor a duck, nor a goose, 210 
 
 On which I might light, and have in the 
 
 sand full many entombed, 
 When all that I harried to death I did 
 
 not desire to consume. 
 
CANTO IV. 
 
 109 
 
 It afterwards happened one winter to me, 
 
 on the banks of the Rhine, 
 That Isengrim came I to know, who was 
 
 lurking aback of the trees. 
 He assured me, without losing time, that I 
 
 was a kinsman of his ; 
 Indeed on his fingers he could the precise 
 
 degrees of the tie 
 Call over to me. I gave my assent, an 
 
 alliance we formed, 
 And each to the other engaged as trusty- 
 companions to roam. 
 Ah, many an evil thereby was I doomed 
 
 to prepare for myself! 
 Together we went through the land; while 
 
 he stole the big on our way, 220 
 
 And I stole the small. Whate'er we 
 
 obtained was common to be ; 
 But common indeed it was not, he parted 
 
 it just as he chose; 
 A half I have never received. Yea, worse 
 
 have I suffered than this ; 
 If he managed a calf to purloin, or get 
 
 for his booty a ram. 
 
no REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 If I found him at table with more than 
 
 enough, or consuming a goat 
 Just recently done to its death; if a buck 
 
 in the grasp of his claws, 
 Despite of its struggles, was held, at me 
 
 he would grin and look sour. 
 Till growling he drove me away, my share 
 
 to retain for himself. 
 It always turned out with me thus, no 
 
 matter the size of the joint 
 He had got. Indeed, if to pass it should 
 
 come that, in company, we 230 
 
 Should manage to capture an ox, or our- 
 selves possess of a cow, 
 At once made appearance his wife and 
 
 seven young cubs on the scene. 
 Who then would lay hold of the prey, and 
 
 crowd me away from the meal. 
 Not even a rib could I get; so polished 
 
 and dry were they gnawed, 
 That nothing like meat could be found; 
 
 and I must contented appear. 
 But heaven, however, be praised, I suffered 
 
 not hunger thereby. 
 
CANTO IV. Ill 
 
 From that splendid treasure of mine I kept 
 
 myself privately fed, 
 By means of the silver and _ gold, that 
 
 securely I keep in a place 
 Not easily found. Therein have I all I 
 
 can want; for, in truth, 
 No wagon could bear it away, if it seven 
 
 times went to the task. 240 
 
 The king paid attention thereto, as mention 
 
 was made of this wealth. 
 Inclined himself forward and asked : From 
 
 whence did it come to your hands ? 
 S-peak out and at once ! The treasure I 
 
 mean ! And then Reynard said : 
 This secret from you I will not conceal, 
 
 what good could it do? 
 For naught of these costly things with me 
 
 can I take when I go. 
 Since then you are pleased to command, I 
 
 will all to you truly relate ; 
 For out it assuredly must; since, whether 
 
 for evil or good. 
 
112 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 A secret so weighty indeed could not be 
 
 much longer concealed ; 
 For the treasure was stolen, forsooth. With 
 
 oaths had a number conspired 
 To kill you, beneficent king, and if, at the 
 
 very same hour, 250 
 
 The treasure had not with prudence been 
 
 moved, it thus had occurred. 
 Take notice of this, gracious lord, for both 
 
 your well-being . and life 
 On the treasure's security hung; and, alas, 
 
 the purloining thereof 
 Made things with my father go hard; it 
 
 led him, in prime of his life, 
 The last dreadful journey to take ; to eter- 
 nal perdition, perhaps ; 
 But, merciful master, for you it all turned 
 
 out for the best. 
 
 Perplexedly listened the queen to all of 
 
 this horrible tale. 
 The intricate, furtive design fbr depriving 
 
 her consort of life, 
 
CANTO IV. 113 
 
 The treason, the treasure, and all that^ he 
 
 had been telling about. 
 I caution you, Reynard, she cried, reflect! 
 
 for about to embark 260 
 
 You are on the road to your home ; 
 
 repentant, disburden your soul; 
 Set forth the unvarnished truth and plainly 
 
 the murder make known. 
 The king supplemented her words: Strict 
 
 silence let every one keep! 
 Come, Reynard again here below and step 
 
 now up nearer to me. 
 Whereby I may hear what you say, for the 
 
 matter concerneth myself. 
 
 Reynard, who saw through it all, took 
 courage again, and the founds 
 
 Of the ladder he quickly ran down, to the 
 malcontents' heavy chagrin ; 
 
 And himself, without more ado, by the 
 king and his consort he placed. 
 
 Who earnestly tried to find out the mean- 
 ing of all he had said. 
 
114 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 He then set himself to make up some new 
 and astonishing lies. 270 
 
 That I the good will of the king and that 
 of his consort, he thought, 
 
 Again could secure; and oh, that my cun- 
 ning at once would prevail, 
 
 And render me able my foes, who me are 
 conducting to death. 
 
 Themselves to destruction to bring; this me 
 from all peril would save. 
 
 For me this would certainly be a blessing 
 from out of the skies; 
 
 But lies without measure, I see, to carry 
 my purpose I need. 
 
 Impatiently then did the queen to Reynard 
 
 more questions propound ; 
 Let us know, without any mistake, of what 
 
 the whole' matter consists. 
 The truth let us know, your conscience 
 
 respect, disburden your soul ! 
 Reynard responded thereto: I gladly will 
 
 tell to you all. 280 
 
CANTO IV. 115 
 
 Death alone is awaiting me now, and noth- 
 ing can remedy that. 
 
 Should I, at the end of my life, my soul 
 overburden with lies. 
 
 And eternal damnation incur, I should act 
 as if out of my mind. 
 
 It is better for me to confess; and if, to 
 my sorrow, I must 
 
 My cherished relations and friends arraign 
 and put under a cloud, 
 
 How can I help it, alas ! At hand are the 
 torments of hell. 
 
 Already the king, as he listened intently to 
 
 what had been said. 
 Full heavy at heart had become. He said : 
 
 Are you telling the truth? 
 To his majesty Reynard replied, with air 
 
 for the purpose assumed : 
 I'm an infamous fellow, I know, yet now 
 
 am I speaking the truth. 290 
 
 What good could I get by telling you lies? 
 
 I should only myself 
 
Il5 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Everlastingly damn. You know very well, 
 
 for so it's resolved, 
 I must die; I am now looking death in the 
 
 face and lie will I not; 
 Neither evil nor good to me now can be of 
 
 the slightest avail. 
 He shook as he uttered these words, and 
 
 seemed on the verge of a swoon. 
 
 The queen then compassionate spake: I 
 
 pity the anguish he feels; 
 Deign kindly upon him to look, I beg you, 
 
 my lord, and reiiect; 
 We both may be saved from much harm by 
 
 this revelation of his. 
 The sooner the better that we the ground 
 
 of his narrative find! 
 Strict silence enforce upon all, and let him 
 
 straightforwardly speak. 300 
 
 Then issued the king his command, and 
 
 all the assembly was still; 
 But Reynard uplifted his voice: If it please 
 
 you my gracious king. 
 
CANTO IV. 117 
 
 Pray listen to what I shall say. Although 
 
 my narration may chance 
 
 Without any notes to be made, yet exact 
 
 you will find it and true; 
 The details you'll learn of the plot, and no 
 
 one intend I to spare. 305 
 
llS REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 CANTO FIVE. 
 
 Now notice the cunning displayed, and see 
 
 how the fox went to work 
 To hide his offences once more, and harm 
 
 unto others to do. ' 
 
 Gratuitous lies he devised, yea, even his 
 
 father defamed 
 On the further side of the grave ; and the 
 
 badger he grossly traduced, 
 His loyallest friend, who had so persistently 
 
 come to his aid. 
 There was nothing he scrupled to say, by 
 
 which his narration he thought 
 He might plausible make ; that on his 
 
 accusers he vengeance might take. 
 
 And this is the way he began: My father 
 
 once had the good luck. 
 Not very long since, the wealth of king 
 
 Emmrich, the mighty, to find lo 
 
 In a secret place ; yet to him was the 
 
 hoard of but littl% avail. 
 
CANTO V. 115 
 
 He gave himself airs on account of his 
 
 wealth, esteeming no more 
 The beasts of his own degree, and his 
 
 comrades of former times 
 Too little regarding by far ; more . notable 
 
 friends he desired. 
 Tybert the cat he despatched to the wild 
 
 hunting grounds of Ardennes, 
 Bruin the bear to seek out, to whom he 
 
 should fealty swear, 
 And summon to Flanders forthwith, in order 
 
 their king to become. 
 
 When Bruin the writing had read, its im- 
 port him heartily pleased : 
 
 Untiring and bold he pursued his way on 
 to Flanders in haste. 
 
 For with something like this had his mind 
 already for long been engaged. 
 
 Arriving he found my father on hand, who 
 hailed him with joy, 20 
 
 And at once off to Isengrim sent, and like- 
 wise to Grimbart, the sage; 
 
I20 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The four put together their heads, discussed 
 
 and perfected their plans, 
 And not far away was a fifth, namely 
 
 Tybert, the cat. Near at hand 
 Lay a village which Iste is called, and this 
 
 was the actual place, 
 A spot between Iste and Ghent, where 
 
 jointly the plot they discussed 
 The whole of a long cloudy night, which 
 
 kept their assemblage concealed. 
 With God met they not, for my father, 
 
 the devil more rightly to say. 
 Them totally had in his power, with his 
 
 damnable treasure of gold. 
 They resolved on the death of the king, 
 
 and one to the other they swore 
 An alliance eternal and firm, and then did 
 
 the five take their oath 30 
 
 In conjunction on Isengrim's head, that 
 
 unitedly they would select 
 Bruin the bear for their king; and at Aix- 
 
 la-chapelle, on the throne. 
 With aid of the golden crown, the realm 
 
 to him firmly secure. 
 
CANTO V. 121 
 
 This having been done, if by one of the 
 
 king's relations or friends 
 Resistance thereto should be made, my father 
 
 was him to convince 
 Or tempt with a bribe; and, failing in that, 
 
 to eject him at once. 
 I happened to learn of the scheme, for 
 
 Grimbart one morning himself 
 Full merrily drunken had got, and garrulous 
 
 had become. 
 Thus went the fool home to his wife and 
 
 gave the whole secret away; 
 Then silence upon her enjoined, thus think- 
 ing the matter to mend. 40 
 Very soon after this had occurred, my 
 
 wife she encountered, and her 
 Must she, by a sacred oath, in the regal 
 
 trinity's name, 
 Pledge on her honor and faith that, whether 
 
 come evil or good. 
 To no one a word would she tell; and then 
 
 she made known to her all. 
 In like manner too, has my wife as little 
 
 her promise observed, 
 
122 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 For, soon as she found where I was, she 
 told to me all she had heard; 
 
 And gave me, moreover, a sign, whereby 
 the full truth of the tale 
 
 I with ease recognized ; jet through it I've 
 only more evil incurred. 
 
 It reminded me well of the frogs, the con- 
 tinual croaking of whom 
 
 Ascended, at length, to the ears of our 
 Lord in the heavens above. 50 
 
 They, wishing the rule of a king, were 
 
 willing to live in restraint, 
 After having their freedom enjoyed in all 
 
 the domains of the earth. 
 Their petition was granted by God ; he sent 
 
 them as monarch the stork, 
 Who steadily hates and maltreats and allows 
 
 them no peace to enjoy. 
 As a fiend he himself to them bears; and 
 
 wailing the fools are to-day. 
 But ah, it's ' too late ! The king has them 
 
 now altogether subdued. 
 
CANTO V. 123 
 
 Reynard to all of the crowd spoke at the 
 
 top of his voice ; 
 All could well hear what he said; and thus 
 
 he continued his speech: 
 Observe ! My fears were excited for all, lest 
 
 so it should turn. 
 Your highness, I looked out for you and 
 
 hoped for a better reward. 60 
 
 Of Bruin's intrigues I'm aware, and the 
 
 villainous turn of his mind, 
 As also his many misdeeds ; and the worst 
 
 I provided against. 
 Should he become king, we all to destruc- 
 tion together should go. 
 Our king is of noble descent, and mighty 
 
 and gracious he is, 
 I privately thought; a mournful exchange 
 
 indeed it would be, 
 A dull, good-for-nothing, unprincipled bear 
 
 to exalt in this way. 
 I studied it over for weeks, and tried the 
 
 whole plot to defeat. 
 
124 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 To me it was clear above all that, if in 
 
 the hands of my sire 
 The treasure continued to be, he then could 
 
 large forces collect, 
 And surely the game he would win, while 
 
 we of our king should be shorn, 70 
 
 My care was now centered on this : to 
 
 search and discover the spot 
 Wherein was the treasure concealed, and 
 
 stealthily take it away. 
 Should my father run off to the field, or 
 
 the crafty old fellow depart 
 To, the forest, by day or by night, in frost 
 
 or in tropical heat. 
 In sunshine or rain, I was always behind 
 
 and tracking his steps. 
 
 Once as I lay in the earth hidden with 
 
 care and with thoughts 
 Of how I the treasure could find, so much 
 
 about which I had learned. 
 Then and there I my father espied, as out 
 
 of a cranny he stole ; 
 
CANTO V. 125 
 
 Among the stones he advanced, and up 
 from below he emerged. 
 
 In silence I kept myself hid ; he thought 
 he was all by himself, 80 
 
 Scanned the whole field of his view and 
 then, as he no one perceived. 
 
 In the distance or near, his game he began, 
 and you shall it learn. 
 
 Again he put sand in the hole, and skill- 
 fully made it agree 
 
 In level and looks with the rest of the 
 ground. No one, who had not 
 
 Seen it done, could possibly know it was 
 there. And step after step 
 
 As he went, he saw. that the spot upon 
 which he had planted his feet 
 
 Should over and over again be thoroughly 
 brushed" with his tail ; 
 
 And then did away with his trail by rak- 
 ing about with his mouth. 
 
 In this my first lesson I took from my wily 
 old father that day, 
 
 Who versatile was in dodges and tricks and 
 pranks of all kinds. 90 
 
126 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 This having been done, he hurried away to 
 
 his task, and I thought 
 The princely treasure, perhaps, may be in 
 
 neighborhood kept. 
 I quickly stepped up to the place, and 
 
 promptly proceeded to work ; 
 And the rift, in a very short time, I man- 
 aged to pierce with my paws. 
 Then crept I impatiently in, and heaps of 
 
 things priceless I found, 
 Of the finest of silver a store and gold 
 
 that was red ; of a truth 
 Has never the oldest one here his eyes 
 
 such a hoard laid upon. 
 Myself I now set to rpy task with the aid 
 
 of my wife ; we dragged 
 And we carried by day and by night; we 
 
 had neither barrow nor cart ; 
 Much labor it therefore entailed and many 
 
 an hour of fatigue. loo 
 
 Faithfully held dame Ermelyn out, and we 
 
 managed at length 
 To get all the jewels in safety away and 
 
 conveyed to a place 
 
CANTO V. 127 
 
 That to us more suitable seemed. Mean- 
 while kept my father himself 
 
 Daily in contact with those who our king 
 were in league to betray. 
 
 Now what they resolved you shall hear and 
 greatly amazed you will be. 
 
 Straight Bruin and Isengrim sent to many 
 
 departments and lands 
 Patents the hirelings to call, who were 
 
 ordered in numbers to come 
 And promptly themselves to report; then 
 
 Bruin their posts would assign, 
 And even indulgently give the fellows their 
 
 pay in advance. 
 My father then traversed the lands display- 
 ing the letters he had, no 
 Sure of his treasure that still, he thought, 
 
 in its hiding-place lay. 
 But now it had so come about that, if he, 
 
 with all of his friends. 
 Had ever so thoroughly searched, they 
 
 would not a penny have found. 
 
128 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 For him was no labor too great, and nim- 
 bly his way he pursued 
 
 Through every land to be found between 
 the Elbe and the Rhine. 
 
 Many hirelings he'd already found, and 
 many another he gained,' 
 
 For money was able to Jend an emphasis 
 strong to his words. 
 
 At length did the summer arrive, and now 
 
 did my father return 
 To his fellow-conspirators back. Then had 
 
 he of sorrows and want 
 And terrible woes to relate, especially how 
 
 he almost 120 
 
 His life down in Saxony lost, as among the 
 
 castles he roamed, 
 Where huntsmen with horses and hounds 
 
 him daily pursued, insomuch 
 That barely made he his escape, and then 
 
 with his pelt scarcely whole. 
 
 Arriving, he joyfully showed the four arch- 
 traitors the list 
 
CANTO V. 129 
 
 Of the comrades that he had secured by- 
 means of his pledges and gold. 
 
 Bruin rejoiced at the news, as the five in 
 conjunction it read. 
 
 Its import was this: Twelve hundred of 
 Isengrim's relatives bold, 
 
 With ravenous mouths and sharp-set teeth 
 in their heads were to come. 
 
 And the cats and the bears besides were all 
 for sir Bruin assured. 
 
 The gluttons and badgers as well, Thurin- 
 giani and Saxon, would come; 130 
 
 Collected, however, they were on this under- 
 standing alone. 
 
 That pay for a month in advance should 
 be had. Then all in return ^ 
 
 iPorward would come in their might as soon 
 as command was received. 
 
 God be eternally thanked that I on their 
 schemes shut the door. 
 
 Now, after , my father had seen to all that 
 demanded his care. 
 
130 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 He hurried away to the fields, to look on 
 
 the treasure once more; 
 Then first his affliction began, he burrowed 
 
 and sought and explored, 
 Yet the longer he scraped the less he could 
 
 find. Of no earthly use 
 Was the trouble he took on himself and 
 
 his inconsolable grief, 
 For the treasure was now far away, 'twas 
 
 nowhere at all to be found. 140 
 
 And then, out of anger and shame — how 
 
 horribly plagues me the thought, 
 By day as well as by night — my father 
 
 himself went and hanged. 
 
 All this was accomplished by me, the 
 
 infamous deed to prevent ; 
 And now me biit evil it brings, yet I do 
 
 not repent what I , did. 
 But the covetous Bruin and Isengrim have, 
 
 by the side of the king, 
 Their seats in his council assigned. And 
 
 Reynard, poor fellow, how thou 
 
CANTO V. 131 
 
 Art thanked in the opposite way for hav- 
 ing, the king to preserve, 
 
 Thine own loving father destroyed! Where 
 else is there one to be found, 
 
 Who ruin would bring on himself, just 
 lerely your life to prolong? 
 
 me 
 
 Meanwhile had the king and the queen 
 their hands on the treasure to get 150 
 
 The greatest cupidity felt; aside they with- 
 drew and the fox 
 
 Invited to them, in private to talk, and 
 hastily said : 
 
 Speak! Where have you this wealth? That 
 is the thing we would know. 
 
 Reynard then said in reply : To me of what 
 use would it be. 
 
 To show the magnificent goods to the king, 
 who me has condemned ? 
 
 Too much he confides in my foes, the 
 vicious assassins and thieves, 
 
 Who cumber him down with their lies, in 
 order my life to obtain. 
 
132 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 No, no! interjected the queen, thus shall it 
 
 not come to pass! 
 My lord will accord you your life, and all 
 
 that is past will forgive ; 
 He will harbor his anger no more. In 
 
 future, however, you must i6o 
 
 More prudence display, and loyal and true 
 
 remain to the king. 
 
 Reynard said : My lady and queen, if you 
 
 with the king can prevail. 
 His troth in your presence to give that he 
 
 will me pardon once more, 
 That he all my crimes and misdeeds, and 
 
 all the resentment that I 
 In him have unhappily roused, will forever 
 
 efface from his mind. 
 You then may rest fully assured no king of 
 
 our time shall possess 
 Such vastness of wealth as shall he, through 
 
 my fidelity, gain. 
 The treasure is great; when I show you 
 
 the place, surprised yoU will be. 
 
CANTO V. 
 
 133 
 
 Confide in him not, said the king, it is 
 
 only when he of his thefts, 
 His lies, and his robberies tells, that one 
 
 can him thoroughly trust; 170 
 
 For a greater liar than he has certainly 
 
 never drawn breath. 
 
 To this said the queen in reply : It is true 
 
 that his life hitherto 
 Hath little of confidence earned; at present, 
 
 however, reflect 
 That his uncle, the badger himself, and his 
 
 own loving father as well. 
 This time he has called to account, and 
 
 made their iniquities known, 
 If so he desired he could let them alone, 
 
 and of different beasts 
 These stories of his could relate: he would 
 
 not so stupidly lie. 
 
 Is that your idea? responded the king; if 
 you think it may turn 
 
134 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 In reality out for the best, so that evil 
 
 still greater may not 
 Therefrom he derived, I will do as you 
 
 say, and these criminal acts i8o 
 
 Of Reynard will take on myself, with all 
 
 his nefarious deeds. 
 I will trust him this once, but never again, 
 
 let him bear that in mind! 
 To him on my crown I will swear an 
 
 inflexible oath, that, if he, 
 In future, shall lie or transgress, he shall 
 
 it forever repent, 
 And that all who to him are of kin, be it 
 
 only the tenth degree. 
 Shall atone it whoever they are, and none 
 
 from my wrath shall escape; 
 With evil and shame shall they meet and 
 
 ruthless pursuit of the law. 
 
 When finally Reynard beheld how quickly 
 
 the mind of the king 
 Was changing, he mustered up courage and 
 
 said: Would I like a fool 
 
CANTO V. 135 
 
 Myself, gracious monarch, conduct and 
 
 stories presume to relate, 190 
 
 Whose truthfulness cannot be shown in very 
 few days, at the most ? 
 
 The king then believed what he said and 
 
 pardon he granted for all; 
 His father's high treason the first, and then 
 
 Reynard's own evil deeds; 
 And the latter was now overwhelmingly 
 
 pleased. At an opportune time 
 Was he from the might of his foes and 
 
 his own wretched destiny freed. 
 Most noble of monarchs and lords, Reynard 
 
 began then to say, 
 May God, in his mercy, reward both you 
 
 and your consort for all 
 That you unto me the unworthy, have 
 
 done; I will keep it in mind 
 And, long as eternity lasts, will my grati- 
 tude constantly show. 
 In all the dominions and states of the earth 
 
 there assuredly lives 200 
 
136 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Not a person now under the sun, to whom 
 
 this magnificent wealth 
 I would rather transfer than just to you 
 
 two. What is there of grace 
 That I, at your hands, have not had? For 
 
 that will I willingly give 
 King Emmerich's treasure to you, exactly 
 
 as he it possessed. 
 I now will explain where it is, and truth 
 
 I will honestly speak. 
 
 Attend! To the eastward of Flanders a 
 
 desert exists, and in that 
 Lies a thicket alone, which is Hiisterlo 
 
 called, take note of the name! 
 Beyond is a spring that is Krekelborn 
 
 named; now bear you in mind 
 That not far apart are the two. Within 
 
 this vicinity comes 
 Not a woman or man, from beginning to 
 
 end of the year. Here abides 210 
 
 Nought but the bat and the owl, and here 
 
 I the treasure concealed. 
 
CANTO V. 137 
 
 As Krekelborn known is the place, this 
 
 note and make use of the sign. 
 With only your consort proceed to the 
 
 place, for there certainly is 
 Not a soul that's sufficiently safe to send as 
 
 a messenger there, 
 And very great harm would result; I could 
 
 not it dare to advise. 
 Alone you must go to the spot. When 
 
 Krekelborn you shall have passed, 
 You two little birches will see ; and one, 
 
 now attend, will be found 
 Not very far off from the brook; thus, gra- 
 cious king, you will go 
 Unhindered and straight to the trees; 
 
 beneath them the treasures lie hid. 
 You need only burrow and scrape; first 
 
 moss you will find at the roots, 220 
 
 And then you'll discover at once the richest 
 
 and costliest gems. 
 In gold most artistic and fine, and also 
 
 king Emmerich's crown. 
 If Bruin had had his desire, then he would 
 
 be wearing it now. 
 
138 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Decorations in number you'll find and jewels 
 
 of brilliance and worth, 
 And trinkets of gold, which now are not 
 
 made, for who could them buy? 
 This wealth when you see, gracious king, 
 
 as there all together it lies. 
 Of one thing indeed I am sure, in thought 
 
 you will honor me then. 
 Reynard, you honest old fox, you will 
 
 think, who so prudently hid 
 These treasures up under the moss, pros- 
 perity always be thine. 
 In what place soever thou art! Thus did 
 
 the hypocrite speak. 230 
 
 To this said the king in reply: You mijst 
 me attend when I go, 
 
 For how, if alone, shall I light on the 
 spot? Of Aix-la-Chapelle, 
 
 Without any doubt, I have heard, and Lon- 
 don and Paris as well. 
 
 And Cologne; but Hiisterlo's name I never 
 once heard in my life. 
 
CANTO V. 139 
 
 And of Krekelborn too may the same be 
 observed; must then I not fear 
 
 That lies you are telling again and coining 
 these names in your head? 
 
 Unhappy was Reynard to hear the circum- 
 spect words of the king, 
 
 And he said : Where I you direct is not 
 so far off as if you 
 
 Were told at the Jordan to seek. Why 
 look at me still with distrust ? 
 
 To what I have said I adhere, that all can 
 in Flanders be found. 240 
 
 Let us ask some of these ; another, per- 
 haps, may endorse what I say. 
 
 Krekelborn! Hiisterlo! Thus did I say, 
 and these are their names. 
 
 And then he called out to the hare, but 
 Lampen in terror held back. 
 
 Then Reynard exclaimed: Come, don't be 
 afraid ! The king only asks 
 
 That you, by the oath of allegiance you 
 recently took, will tell 
 
140 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Him nought but the truth; so out with it 
 
 now, provided you know, 
 And say, where does Hiisterlo stand and 
 
 Krekelborn too? Let us hear. 
 
 Lampen said: That can I easily tell. In 
 
 the desert they stand. 
 The one from the other not far. The 
 
 inhabitants Hiisterlo call 
 That thicket where bandy-legg'd Simonet 
 
 long continued to dwell, 250 
 
 Counterfeit money to make, with his daring 
 
 companions in crime. 
 Greatly at that very spot I suffered from 
 
 hunger and cold, 
 When I from the bull-dog Rhyn in direst 
 
 distress had to fly. 
 At this Reynard said to the hare: To the 
 
 others again you may go. 
 Among them resuming ■ your place ; enough 
 
 to the king you have told. 
 The king then to Reynard remarked: Be 
 
 not discontented with me, 
 
CANTO V. 141 
 
 Because I impatient have been and harbored 
 
 a doubt of your word; 
 But see to it now, without fail, that me 
 
 you conduct to the place. 
 
 Reynard spake: How happy myself I should 
 
 prize, were it fitting to-day 
 For me to go forth with the king, and 
 
 him into Flanders attend; 260 
 
 But for you it would count as a sin. In 
 
 spite of the shame that I feel. 
 Yet out it must come, though gladly I'd 
 
 keep it still longer concealed. 
 Our Isengrim, some time ago, himself got 
 
 ordained as a monk. 
 Not at all that the Lord he might serve, 
 
 his belly's the god he obeys; 
 The convent he almost consumed; at eating 
 
 he's reckoned as six. 
 So all was for him not enough; he whined 
 
 about hunger and grief. 
 It moved me to pity at last, when I saw 
 
 him so thin and unwell, 
 
142 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And I faithfully give him my help, for 
 
 he's a near kinsman of mine. 
 But I, for the aid that I gave, the ban of 
 
 the Pope have incurred. 
 And now, without any delay, I would, with 
 
 your knowledge and leave, 270 
 
 Commune all alone with my soul and 
 
 tomorrow, at rise of the sun. 
 For grace and indulgence to sue, would 
 
 start as a pilgrim to Rome, 
 And thence I would over the sea; and thus 
 
 bring about that can my sins 
 Be from me all taken away; and should I 
 
 come back to my home, 
 I with honor may go at your side ; if I did 
 
 so, however, to-day. 
 The world would be sure to remark : How 
 
 is it our monarch again 
 With Reynard is seen, whom not long ago 
 
 to death he condemned. 
 And who, in addition to that, is under the 
 
 ban of the Pope ! 
 My lord, you will certainly see, 'twere bet- 
 ter to leave it undone. 
 
CANTO V. 143 
 
 Responded the king: Very true, to me that 
 of course was unknown. 280 
 
 If you are proscribed by the church, to 
 take you would be a disgrace. 
 
 Either Lampen or somebody else can accom- 
 pany me to the spring. 
 
 But, Reynard, that you from the ban are 
 trying to get your release, 
 
 I look on as useful and good, and gra- 
 ciously give you my leave 
 
 Tomorrow betimes to set out; I will not 
 your pilgrimage stay. 
 
 For seems it to me that you wish from 
 evil to good to return. 
 
 May God your intention approve and let 
 you the journey complete! 287 
 
144 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 CANTO SIX 
 
 In this way was Reynard again to favor 
 received by the king. 
 
 And now stepped his majesty out to some 
 rising ground that was near, 
 
 And, speaking up there on a stone, he bade 
 the assemblage of beasts 
 
 Keep silence and down in the grass, accord- 
 ing to birth and degree. 
 
 To settle themselves; and Reynard stood up 
 by the side of the queen. 
 
 The king, overlooking the crowd, began 
 
 with much caution to speak: 
 Be silent and harken to me, ye birds and 
 
 ye beasts who are here, 
 Alike both the rich and the poor; yea, 
 
 hearken, ye great and ye small. 
 My lords and acquaintances all, of household 
 
 as well as of court, 
 Reynard is here in my power; you were 
 
 thinking, a short time ago, lo 
 
CANTO VI. 145 
 
 He ought to be hanged, but now such a 
 
 number of secrets at court 
 He's revealed, that him I believe, and 
 
 advisably mercy to him 
 Again I vouchsafe. In addition to this has 
 
 my consort, the queen. 
 With earnestness pleaded for him, and I in 
 
 his favor am moved, 
 Forgiveness have fully bestowed, and on him 
 
 his goods and his life 
 Have freely conferred ; henceforward my 
 
 peace him shields and protects. 
 Now all who together are here, are ordered, 
 
 so long as you live. 
 That Reynard, his children and wife, you 
 
 honor shall everywhere show. 
 Wherever, by day or by night, you chance 
 
 them in future to meet; 
 Moreover, of Reynard's affairs no further 
 
 complaint will I hear. 20 
 
 If he any evil has done, that belongs to 
 
 the past; and his ways 
 He will mend, as indeed he's begun, for 
 
 early tomorrow he takes 
 
146 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 His Staff and his knapsack to go as a 
 reverent pilgrim to Rome, 
 
 And thence will he over the sea; and never 
 again will come back 
 
 Until he remission complete of all his mis- 
 deeds has obtained. 
 
 Now Tybert, with rage, upon this to Bruin 
 and Isengrim turned ; 
 
 Our trouble and pains are now lost, he ex- 
 claimed. I would that were I 
 
 Far from here! If Reynard has been once 
 again into favor received, 
 
 All arts that he knows he will use to bring 
 us all three to an end. 
 
 Already one eye have I lost, and now for 
 the other I fear! 30 
 
 Good counsel is dear, responded the bear, 
 
 that is plain to be seen. 
 Then Isengrim said in return: The thing 
 
 is so queer that it's best 
 
CANTO VI. 147 
 
 To go Straight away to the king. With 
 
 Bruin he sullenly walked 
 At once to the king and the queen ; and 
 
 Reynard severely denounced, 
 With pungency speaking and loud. The 
 
 king interrupted them thus: 
 You surely could hear what I said? I've 
 
 him newly to favor received. 
 The king uttered this in a rage, and had 
 
 in a twinkling" the two 
 Captured, imprisoned, and bound; for well 
 
 he remembered the words 
 That he from Reynard had heard concerning 
 
 their traitorous acts. 
 
 Thus in the space of an hour had matters 
 
 with Reynard become 40 
 
 Most thoroughly changed. Himself he'd 
 
 got free, and into disgrace 
 His accusers had come; he even knew how, 
 
 in his spite, to procure 
 That off from the back of the bear a piece 
 
 of his hide should he cut, 
 
148 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 A foot in its length and its width, that a 
 
 wallet for him on the road 
 Provided might be; so seemed as a pilgrim 
 
 but little to want; 
 But still he entreated the queen to furnish 
 
 him also with shoes, 
 And said: Gracious lady, you own that I 
 
 am your pilgrim just now. 
 Then give me your help, I implore, that I 
 
 may my journey complete. 
 Now four useful shoes has the wolf, it 
 
 surely were nothing but just 
 That he with a pair should dispense, for 
 
 me on my journey to wear; 50 
 
 These get, gracious lady, for me, by means 
 
 of his lordship, the king. 
 Dame Greedimund also could spare a couple 
 
 of hers for my use. 
 For she, as a housewife, is forced to live 
 
 almost wholly in-doors. 
 
 This claim was regarded as just by the 
 queen. They assuredly can 
 
CANTO VI. , 149 
 
 Each of them part with a pair, she gra- 
 ciously said in reply. 
 Reynard was thankful for this, and said 
 
 with a rapturous bow: 
 If four solid shoes I acquire, I will surely 
 
 no longer delay. 
 All the good that I presently may, as a 
 
 pilgrim, be able to do. 
 You surely shall equally share, both you and 
 
 our merciful king. 
 On a pilgrimage we are compelled to make 
 
 supplication for all 60 
 
 Who us have in any way helped. May 
 
 God then your goodness reward ! 
 
 Thus did sir Isengrim have from his two 
 
 front paws to resign, 
 Far up as his ankles, his shoes ; and then 
 
 a like fate must his wife, 
 Dame Greedimund, also endure, for she 
 ■ had her hind ones to lose. 
 
 In this manner both had to lose the skin 
 and the claws of their feet, 
 
ISO REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And together with Bruin they lay, mourn- 
 fully waiting for death; 
 But the hypocrite, having obtained the wallet 
 
 and shoes as desired, 
 Went hither and flaunted his jeers; at 
 
 Greedimund worse than the rest. 
 My love, my own darling, he said, just 
 
 give but a glance and observe 
 How splendidly fit me your shoes, I hope 
 
 that they also will wear. 70 
 
 Great effort already you've made, my ruin, 
 
 perchance, to achieve, 
 But I too have exerted myself, and my 
 
 labor has met with success. 
 If you your enjoyment have had, so my 
 
 turn at length it is now; 
 But this is the uniform rule, and one must 
 
 learn how to submit. 
 As now I proceed on my road, my cherished 
 
 relations I can 
 Remember with thanks. You me have a 
 
 present of shoes kindly made, 
 A deed you shall never regret; whatever 
 
 indulgence I gain 
 
CANTO VI. 151 
 
 You surely shall share when I fetch it from 
 Rome and over the sea. 
 
 Dame Greedimund lay in such pain, that 
 scarcely the strength she retained 
 
 To utter a word, yet roused herself up and 
 said with a groan : 80 
 
 In order to punish our sins, God allows all 
 with you to succeed. 
 
 Still Isengrim said not a word, but to- 
 gether with Bruin lay still; 
 
 They both were unhappy enough, in bondage 
 and covered with wounds. 
 
 And now set at nought by their foe. Tybert, 
 the cat, was not there, 
 
 And Reynard was anxious enough to put 
 him in hot water as well. 
 
 The hypocrite busied himself, at morn of 
 
 the following day, 
 In rubbing with tallow and oil the shoes 
 
 that his kinsmen had lost; 
 
152 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And now, making haste to present himself 
 
 to the king, he observed; 
 Your dutiful servant's prepared on his sacred 
 
 mission to start ; 
 Pray now of your mercy command the priest 
 
 of your majesty's court, 90 
 
 A blessing on me to bestow, that I full of 
 
 hope may depart; 
 And thus approbation divine on my going 
 
 and coming secure. 
 The ram by the monarch had been his 
 
 imperial chaplain ordained. 
 He also had charge of religious affairs, he 
 
 too by the king 
 Was used as a scribe, and Belly n was named. 
 
 Then had he him called 
 And said : I desire that at once a few holy 
 
 words shall be read 
 Over Reynard awaiting you here, him now 
 
 on the journey to bless, 
 That he has in view ; he is going to Rome 
 
 and the water will cross; 
 The wallet upon him suspend, and give 
 
 him the staff in his hand. 
 
CANTO VI. 153 
 
 And thereupon Bellyn replied: You have, 
 my lord king, I presume, 100 
 
 Discovered that Reynard, as yet, has nqt 
 been released from the ban ; 
 
 Should only I do as you wish, I should 
 wrath from my bishop incur. 
 
 Who about it would easily learn, and me to 
 chastise has the power. 
 
 To Reynard indeed will I do not a thing, 
 either evil or good ; 
 
 If settled the matter could be, and certainly 
 would not thereto 
 
 The Bishop, lord Lackland, object ; or pos- 
 sibly angry thereat, 
 
 The provost, sir Wanton, become, or indeed 
 Rapiamus the dean. 
 
 My blessing I gladly would give, as now I 
 am ordered by you. 
 
 And thus responded the king: What mean 
 
 these evasions and shifts? 
 Many words you compel us to hear, but 
 
 back is there little enough. 1 10 
 
154 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 If you over Reynard will read not a thing, 
 
 either evil or good, 
 The devil I'll ask it to do. What's church 
 
 or the bishop to me? 
 Reynard would journey to Rome! Of that 
 
 would you stand in the way ? 
 With anxiety Bellyn began to scratch at the 
 
 back of his ears; 
 He feared the ill-will of his king, and over 
 
 the pilgrim at once 
 To read from the book he began, but Rey- 
 nard did little attend. 
 Yet all it could give was received : of that 
 
 not a doubt can exist. 
 
 And now was the benison read, delivered 
 the wallet and staff. 
 
 And thus for his counterfeit trip the pil- 
 grim was fully equipped. 
 
 Sham tears were now running down the 
 cheeks of the rascally scamp 120 
 
 And wetting his beard, as if he were feel- 
 ing the deepest regret. 
 
CANTO VI. 155 
 
 And truly it did give him pain, that all of 
 
 his foes he had not 
 Together brought evil upon, but only these 
 
 three had disgraced. 
 Yet there stood he up and implored that 
 
 earnestly all of them would. 
 As well as they could, for him pray. And 
 
 now preparation he made 
 To hurry away, for he felt himself guilty 
 
 and hence was in fear. 
 Reynard, demanded the king, why are you 
 
 making such haste ? 
 Who begins what is good should never 
 
 delay, said Reynard to this ; 
 A furlough I beg of you now, for the 
 
 right and appropriate time 
 Has come, if your majesty please, so let 
 
 me the journey begin. 130 
 
 The furlough is yours, responded the king; 
 
 he also enjoined 
 In a body the lords of the court with the 
 
 spurious pilgrim to go. 
 And wait on a stretch of the way. In the 
 
 meantime in prison remained 
 
156 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Poor Bruin and Isengrim both, lamenting 
 their pain and disgrace. 
 
 In this way had Reynard again of the love 
 and esteem of the king 
 
 Come into possession complete; he went in 
 great honor from court, 
 
 And seemed, with his wallet and staff, to 
 be off to the tomb of our Lord ; 
 
 Having- there just as little to do as a may- 
 pole in Aix-la-chapelle. 
 
 But otherwise far was his aim. He had 
 made a successful attempt, 
 
 With a flaxen beard and a waxen nose, what- 
 ever by that may be meant, 140 
 
 His monarch completely to hoax; and all 
 his accusers were forced 
 
 To follow him now as he went, and him 
 with respect to attend. 
 
 But he could not relinquish his tricks, and 
 said, upon taking his leave: 
 
 My lord, be you well on your guard, that 
 now the two renegades there 
 
CANTO VI. 157 
 
 Do not have a chance to escape, but keep 
 
 them in prison well bound; 
 Desist they would not, if at large, from 
 
 shameful and treacherous deeds. 
 Pray do not forget, noble king, that your 
 
 life would in jeopardy be. 
 
 So went he along on his road, with coun- 
 tenance calm and devout, 
 
 With guise unaffected and grave, as if any 
 other were strange. 
 
 At this did the monarch again himself to 
 his palace betake, 150 
 
 And followed him all of the beasts. Obey- 
 ing the order he gave, 
 
 They Reynard attended no more than a 
 very short distance away. 
 
 And carry himself did the scamp in a 
 manner so joyless and sad, 
 
 That many a good-natured man to pity had 
 found himself moved ; 
 
 And Lampen the hare was especially grieved. 
 Are we now compelled. 
 
IS8 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Dear Lampen, the villain remarked, ' to bid 
 
 to each other adieu? 
 I would th'at your pleasure it were, you and 
 
 dear Belly n the ram, 
 To travel with me on my road a little bit 
 
 further to-day ! 
 By doing so you would confer the greatest 
 
 of favors on me, 
 For pleasant companions you are, and good 
 
 honest people withal; i6o 
 
 Of you only good is e'er said, and honor 
 
 to me would it bring. 
 You are saintly and moral of life, and live 
 
 just precisely the same 
 As I, when a hermit, did live; content are 
 
 you ever with herbs, 
 Are wonted with grasses and leaves your 
 
 hunger to still, and you ask 
 Not either for bread or for meat, or other 
 
 things special to eat. 
 Thus was he able with praise the two little 
 
 weaklings to fool ; 
 And both went together with him, till up 
 
 to his dwelling they came 
 
CANTO VI. 159 
 
 And saw Malepartus the fort, and Reynard 
 
 remarked to the ram : 
 You, Bellyn, outside here remain ; the herbs 
 
 and the grasses you can 
 Here relish as much as you please; these 
 
 mountainous regions produce 170 
 
 Vegetation abundant and rare, wholesome 
 
 and good to the taste. 
 Within I'll take Lampen with me; now 
 
 beg him, I pray, to console 
 My wife, who in sadness is plunged, and 
 
 who, upon coming to find 
 That I, as a pilgrim, am going to Rome, 
 
 will be in despair. 
 Sweet words brought the fox into usCj in 
 
 order the two to deceive. 
 Lampen then led he within, and found his 
 
 disconsolate wife 
 There lying with both of her cubs, with 
 
 grief in excess overcome. 
 For hope she had quite given up that Rey- 
 nard would ever again 
 Return from, the court, and now she him 
 
 saw with wallet and staff, 
 
l6o REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Which almost miraculous seemed. She said 
 
 to him: Reinhart, my dear, i8o 
 
 Pray tell me, how fared it with you, and 
 
 what have you had to go through? 
 And he said: I guilty was found, and 
 
 even imprisoned and bound. 
 But merciful turned out the king, and again, 
 
 after all, set me free; 
 And I, as a pilgrim, came off, leaving 
 
 behind as my bail 
 Bruin and Isengrim both. Thereafter the 
 
 king, of his grace. 
 For atonement, gave Lampen to me ; to do 
 
 with him just as we will. 
 For thus said the king at the last, in the 
 
 justice of his decree : 
 Lampen it was who made the complaint; 
 
 thus truly has he 
 Infinite punishment earned, and now shall 
 
 he answer for all. 
 Lampen was struck with dismay at the 
 menacing words of the fox, 190 
 
 And, puzzled, himself tried to save by hur- 
 rying out of the house. 
 
CANTO VI. l6l 
 
 Reynard blocked tip his way to the door, 
 
 and quickly the . murderer seized 
 The poor wretched thing by the throat, who, 
 
 loud and with horror, for help 
 Cried: help me, O Bellyn, or I am undone! 
 
 The pilgrim, indeed, 
 Is murdering me! His cry was, however, 
 
 not long; for his throat 
 Had Reynard apace bitten through. And 
 
 thus he entreated his guest. 
 Come now, he exclaimed, and let us eat 
 
 fast, for fat is the hare, 
 And good to the taste. At present, indeed, 
 
 for the very first time. 
 Is he of some use, silly fool! I promised 
 
 him this long ago. 
 But now it is past, and now may the traitor 
 
 his charges produce. 200 
 
 Then Reynard at once set to work with his' 
 
 children and wife, and they tore. 
 Full quickly, the skin from the hare, and an 
 
 excellent dinner enjoyed. 
 To the vixen delicious it was, and again 
 
 and again she excla,imed: 
 
l62 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Thanks to the king and the queen, by 
 whose condescension we have 
 
 Obtained this magnificent feast. May God 
 them reward for the deed! 
 
 Keep eating, said Reynard to her, enough 
 for the present is that; 
 
 Today let us all have our fill; much more 
 I'm expecting to get. 
 
 For all, at the last, shall be forced to fully 
 adjust their accounts. 
 
 Who Reynard presume to accost, with inten- 
 tion of doing him harm. 
 
 Dame Ermelyn said upon this: How was it 
 
 you came, I would ask, 210 
 
 To get yourself out of their hands? Thereto 
 
 he replied: Many hours 
 I should need, were I to relate with how 
 
 much adroitness the king 
 I twisted about as I would, and him and 
 
 his consort befooled. 
 I will not between us deny that slender 
 
 indeed is the love 
 
CANTO VI. 163 
 
 That exists between me and the king, and 
 
 not very long to endure. 
 When he the whole truth ascertains, he 
 
 fiercely indignant will be; 
 If he get me again in his power, nor silver 
 
 nor gold will avail 
 Me to save; he certainly will me pursue 
 
 and try to arrest. 
 I then can no mercy expect, that know I 
 
 as well as can be; *• 
 
 Unhanged will he not let me go, so let us 
 
 get out of his way. 220 
 
 Let us flee to the Swabian hills, there is 
 
 nobody knowing us there; 
 We'll walk in the ways of the land, and 
 
 find, if but God give us help, 
 A plenty of savory food and abundance of 
 
 all that is good. 
 Chickens and geese, and rabbits and hares, 
 
 and sugar and dates, 
 And figs and raisins and birds of every 
 
 species and size ; 
 
164 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And there all the bread that is used is 
 
 seasoned with butter and eggs. 
 The water is limpid and pure, the air is 
 
 delightful and clear; 
 Of iish can a plenty be caught, entitled 
 
 Galline, while some, 
 PuUus and Gallus and Anas are called ; 
 
 who can them all name? 
 These fish I enjoy very much ; and even 
 
 to catch them one need 230 
 
 Very deep in the water not plunge; I 
 
 always them greatly enjoy. 
 When there I would pass for a monk. 
 
 Yes, dear little wife, if we wish 
 At last to be free, we must hence, for 
 
 you must accompany me. 
 
 Now understand well what I say! The 
 
 king has permitted me now 
 To go free because of my lies concerning 
 
 mysterious things. 
 King Emmerich's glorious hoard I promised 
 
 for him to procure, 
 
CANTO VI. ' 165 
 
 And said that it over at Krekelborn lay; 
 
 if thither they go 
 To seek it, alas, they will find both one 
 
 and the other not there ! 
 In vain will they dig in the earth; and 
 
 lo! when our monarch shall find 
 Himself in this manner beguiled, then fright- 
 ful his fury will be. 240 
 Ji'or what I invented as lies, before I away 
 
 from him got. 
 You can think. For me of a truth next 
 
 door to a hanging it came ; 
 I was never in bitterer plight, nor ever in 
 
 greater dismay ; 
 Indeed, I should never desire again in such 
 
 danger to be. 
 In short, let happen what may, myself I 
 
 will never permit 
 To go any more to the court, and thus to 
 
 the power of the king 
 My life to surrender again ; it needed the 
 
 greatest of skill, 
 My thumb, by the sweat of my face, from 
 
 out of his mouth to extract. 
 
l66 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Then, troubled, dame Ermelyn said: What 
 
 profit thereby shall we gain? 
 Wretched and strange shall we be in 
 
 every country but this. 250 
 
 Here all we can wish we possess. You 
 
 master remain of your serfs. 
 And do you so terribly need new risks and 
 
 adventures to seek ? 
 Remember this truth: In order to follow 
 
 the bird in the bush. 
 The bird in the hand to release is neither 
 
 sagacious nor wise. 
 We here can live safely enough! Why, 
 
 look at our citadel's strength! 
 If the king with his army beleaguer us 
 
 here, or even resolve 
 The road with his forces to hold, we still 
 
 such a number possess 
 Of loopholes and passages hid, that we can 
 
 in safety effect 
 Our escape; but you know it better than I, 
 
 so why do I speak? 
 For him by main force to attempt to get 
 
 us again in his hands, 260 
 
CANTO VI. 167 
 
 Work without measure will take, and troubles 
 
 me not in the least. 
 But for you to have taken a vow to leave 
 
 me for over the sea, 
 That worries me much. It stuns me almost. 
 
 What good could it do? 
 
 Dear woman, affiict yourself not, said Rey- 
 nard to her in reply. 
 Just listen to me and note what I say: 
 
 far better forsworn 
 Than of life to be shorn! Thus said to 
 
 me once at confession a sage : 
 An oath of compulsion is nought. Not a 
 
 snap of the finger care I 
 For any such trifle as that! I speak of 
 
 the oath, understand. 
 It then shall be done as you say, and I 
 
 will continue at home. 
 But little I have, of a truth, to look for 
 
 in Rome, and if I 270 
 
 Myself by ten pledges had bound, I should 
 
 never Jerusalem see; 
 
l68 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 I mean to remain with you here, as is 
 
 certainly most to my mind ; 
 Other places I do not regard as better than 
 
 that which I have. 
 If mischief the king will me do, then 
 
 calmly I must it await; 
 He is strong and too mighty for me, yet 
 
 possibly I may succeed 
 In duping him yet once again, and slipping 
 
 the harlequin's cap 
 Over his ears with its bells. He shall, if 
 
 I live long enough, 
 Find matters far worse than he wants; of 
 
 that I will give him my oath. 
 
 Impatiently Bellyn began to grumble out- 
 side of the door: 
 
 Do you, Lampen, not mean to depart? 
 Come now and let us be gone! 280 
 
 His call Reynard heard and hurried outside, 
 and there to him said: 
 
 My dear, Lampen earnestly begs that you 
 will accept his regrets. 
 
CANTO VI. i6g 
 
 He is happy within with his aunt, and 
 thinks you will not grudge him that. 
 
 Go on very slowly ahead, for his aunt, 
 mistress Ermlyn, will not, 
 
 This instant, permit him to leave; their 
 pleasure you would not disturb. 
 
 Then Bellyn responded in turn : An out- 
 cry I heard, what was that? 
 Lampen I heard; and he called to me: 
 
 Help! O, Bellyn, come help! 
 Have you any harm to him done? Then 
 
 Reynard judiciously said : 
 Do not misconceive what I say; I spoke of. 
 
 the journey I've vowed, 
 And then was my wife overcome, it seemed 
 
 she was ready to faint; 290 
 
 Theire befell her a deathly affright, as if in 
 
 a swoon she appeared. 
 Now Lampen this saw with alarm, and, in 
 
 his distraction, he cried: 
 Come help me, O Bellyn, I beg! Oh, 
 
 tarry not long from my aid! 
 
170 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 My aunt will never, I'm sure, again to me 
 
 living come back. 
 So far as I know, Bellyn said, it was 
 
 terror that made him call out. 
 Not a hair of his body is hurt, protested 
 
 the villain with oaths; 
 I would very much rather that harm to 
 
 me, than to Lampen, occur. 
 Reynard then said: Did you hear? But 
 
 yesterday bade me the king. 
 As soon as I got to my home, him back 
 
 in some letters to send 
 My notions of what should be done - in cer- 
 tain important affairs? 300 
 Dear nephew, these take with - you now, I 
 
 have them all ready to send. 
 Therein pretty things do I say, and give 
 
 him most prudent advice. 
 Lampen is fully content, I heard him with 
 
 joy, as I left. 
 Recalling to mind with his aunt events of 
 
 the days long ago. 
 How they prattled! As if they never could 
 
 tire; they ate and they drank, 
 
CANTO VI. 171 
 
 And greatly eacli other enjoyed; meanwhile 
 my advices I wrote. 
 
 Dear Reinhart, said Bellyn to this, you 
 
 must the despatches be sure 
 To safely protect; no pocket have I in 
 
 which them to put, 
 And should I break open the seal, with me 
 
 very hard would it go. 
 Reynard said : That I know well enough 
 
 how to do; the wallet, I think, 310 
 
 That Bruin gave me from his hide, is fit- 
 ting exactly for that; 
 It is thick and also it's tough; in that I'll 
 
 the letters secure. 
 The king, in return, will bestow a special 
 
 reward upon you; 
 With honor receive you he will ; thrice 
 
 welcome to him will you be. 
 All this believed Bellyn the ram. Then 
 
 hastened the other again 
 Back into the house ; the wallet he took 
 
 and sprily stuck in 
 
172 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The head of the massacred hare, and also 
 
 bethought him of how 
 He Bellyn could manage to keep from getting 
 
 inside of the pouch". 
 
 He said, as he came out again : Your neck 
 
 hang the wallet around, 
 And nothing, my nephew, permit to move 
 
 you to make an attempt 320 
 
 Within the despatches to look; such prying 
 
 would be a disgrace. 
 With care have I fastened them up, and 
 
 thus you must let them remain. 
 Not even unfasten the bag; I heedful have 
 
 been that the knot 
 Shall be skillfully tied, for such is my way 
 
 in important affairs 
 That pass between me and the king; and, 
 
 should the king find that the thongs 
 Are entwined in the usual way, it then 
 
 will be granted that you 
 His grace and his presents deserve, as a 
 
 messenger whom he can trust. 
 
CANTO VI. 173 
 
 When once you put eyes on tlie king, if 
 
 you in still higher esteem 
 By him would in future be held, then let 
 
 him imagine that you, 
 Have me with discretion advised what I in 
 
 the letters should put, 330 
 
 And even in writing them helped; this 
 
 profit and honor will bring. 
 And Bellyn was mightily pleased, and 
 
 bounded above from the place 
 High up in the air with delight; ran hither 
 
 and thither, and said: 
 Reynard, my nephew and lord, I now that 
 
 you love me perceive. 
 And honor on me would bestow. Before 
 
 all the lords of the court 
 It will add very mvtch to my fame, that I 
 
 such transcendent ideas. 
 In language so choice and refined, have 
 
 composed; for I, in good truth, 
 Know not, as do you, how to write, but 
 
 ^ they shall imagine I do ; 
 And you have I only to thank. It truly 
 
 turned out for my good 
 
174 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 That hither I travelled with you. Pray, tell 
 
 me what further you wish ! 340 
 
 Is Lampen not going with me, now that 
 I'm starting from here? 
 
 No, coolly the villain replied, just now that 
 
 impossible is ; 
 You slowly go on in advance, and he shall 
 
 come after, as soon 
 As I some momentous affairs to him have 
 
 entrusted and charged. 
 God with you remain, Bellyn said, I now 
 
 will walk on as you say. 
 And he hastened away from the place, 
 
 arriving at noon at the court. 
 
 As on him the king cast his eyes, and also 
 
 the wallet espied. 
 He exclaimed: You Bellyn, pray whence 
 
 do you come? And where is the fox? 
 You carry his wallet, I see, pray what is 
 
 the meaning of that? 
 
CANTO VI. 175 
 
 Then Bellyn as follows replied: He begged 
 
 me, most gracious of kings, 350 
 
 Two letters to you to convey, which we 
 
 had together composed. 
 In these you will find some matters of 
 
 weight with acumen discussed ; 
 And as to the contents indeed, therein my 
 
 advice has been sought; 
 Here in the knapsack they are ; the knots 
 
 quite securely he tied. 
 
 The monarch commanded forthwith, that 
 
 summoned the beaver should be, 
 Who notary was and scribe to the king, 
 
 and Bockert was called; 
 His business it was to receive all letters of 
 
 weight and finesse. 
 And decipher aloud to the king, as he 
 
 many languages knew. 
 And the king sent for Tybert as well, who 
 
 also was present to be. 
 When Bockert the knots had untied, with 
 
 Tybert his comrade to help, 360 
 
176 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 He drew from the wallet the head of 
 
 Lampen, the poor murdered hare, 
 And cried with astonishment great: And 
 
 this is a letter, indeed! 
 It truly is queer ! Who has it compiled ? 
 
 Who can it explain? 
 Lampen's head this undoubtedly is; mistake 
 
 about that there is none. 
 
 With horror were stricken the king and 
 
 the queen; and then did the king 
 Bend forward his head and exclaim : Oh 
 
 fox, that I had you again ! 
 The king and the queen were distressed, 
 
 beyond any words to express. 
 Reynard on me has imposed! The monarch 
 
 cried out. Oh, that I 
 To his wicked and scandalous lies had not 
 
 given heed as I did ! 
 Confounded appeared he to be, and also the 
 
 beasts were perplexed. 370 
 
 Lupardus, however, began, who was closely 
 allied to the king: 
 
CANTO VI. 177 
 
 I cannot conceive, in good sooth, why you in 
 
 such trouble should be, 
 Nor either your consort the queen. Such 
 
 notions away from you drive ! 
 Take courage, or you may indeed be covered 
 
 with shame before all. 
 Are you not our ruler and lord? Then all 
 
 who are here must obey. 
 
 On that score alone, said the king, you 
 
 need not at all be amazed 
 That I am thus grieved to the heart. In 
 
 duty, alas, I have failed! 
 For me has the traitor induced, with 
 
 shameful and scandalous tricks. 
 To punish my comrades and friends. At 
 
 present there lie in disgrace 
 Bruin and Isengrim both; repent should I 
 
 not from my heart? 380 
 
 No glory to me does it bring, that I to 
 
 the best of the lords 
 Of my court have so wickedly done, and 
 
 then in the liar himself 
 
178 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 So fully my trust have reposed, and so 
 
 indiscreetly behaved. 
 I followed too quickly my wife, who suffered 
 
 herself to be duped. 
 And begged and entreated for him. Oh, 
 
 had I but firmer remained! 
 But now is repentance too late, and all 
 
 admonition in vain. 
 
 And thus did Lupardus reply: Lord king, 
 
 lend an ear to my prayer. 
 And suffer no longer regret. The evil 
 
 that's done can be squared. 
 For atonement deliver the ram at once to 
 
 the wolves and the bear; 
 Bellyn has frankly confessed, intrepidly too, 
 
 that he gave 390 
 
 His counsel that Lampen should die. Now 
 
 let him pay for it back! 
 And we, after that has been done, together 
 
 for Reynard will make. 
 And catch him if well it turn out; then 
 
 can he quickly be hanged. 
 
CANTO VI. 179 
 
 If permitted to speak, he'll talk himself 
 
 free, and never will hang. 
 
 I know that the wolf and the bear can 
 
 surely be reconciled thus. 
 
 This heard with much pleasure the king, 
 
 and unto Lupardus he said: 
 Your counsel is grateful to me ; so now 
 
 with despatch go and fetch 
 Both of the barons to me, and they shall 
 
 with honor again 
 With me in my council have seats. ■ And 
 
 see that the animals all 
 In a body together be called, who here at 
 
 the court may have been. 400 
 
 They all shall be duly informed how Rey- 
 nard hath shamefully lied. 
 How out of my hands he escaped, and 
 
 Lampen with Bellyn's aid slew; 
 And all shall the wolf and the bear with 
 
 due veneration receive. 
 So I, for amends, give up to my lords, as 
 
 you have advised, 
 
l80 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Bellyn, the traitor, and all his relations for 
 time without end. 
 
 Lupardus no rest himself gave till he had 
 
 the prisoners both, 
 Bniin and Isengrim, found; they then were 
 
 set free, and he said: 
 Consolation accept at my hands! I bring 
 
 you our prince's good- will, 
 And also free convoy from here. I wish 
 
 to inform you, my lords, 
 That his majesty suffers regret if harm 
 
 upon you he has brought. 410 
 
 He bids me assure you of this, and wishes 
 
 to satisfy both. 
 To expiate what has been done, you Bellyn, 
 
 with all of his race, 
 Yea, every one of his kin, for ever shall 
 
 have as your own. 
 Attack them with more ado, be it either 
 
 in forest or field 
 That on them you happen to come; they 
 
 are all of them given to you. 
 
CANTO VI. l8l 
 
 And still, in addition, to this, our monarch 
 
 has deigned to permit 
 That Reynard, who you has deceived, you 
 
 may in all manners despoil ; 
 And him, with his offspring and wife, and 
 
 all of his kindred as well. 
 Wherever they be, may pursue, and none 
 
 shall with you interfere. 
 This freedom so dear I proclaim in the 
 
 name of our master the king; 420 
 
 He, and all who may after him rule, these 
 
 rights will respect and uphold. 
 You now have to only . forget the worries 
 
 you've had to endure. 
 And swear to him service and truth, and 
 
 this you with honor can do. 
 He never will harm you again ; I advise 
 
 you the offer to grasp. 
 
 Thus was atonement decreed ; and by it 
 
 the ram was compelled 
 To pay the account with his life; and all 
 
 of his kindred and kind 
 
1 82 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Have, down to this day, been pursued by 
 
 Isengrim's vigorous stock. 
 Thus the hate everlasting began. Even 
 
 now continue the wolves, 
 Without any shyness or shame, the lambs 
 
 and the sheep to revile. 
 And have not the shade of a doubt that 
 
 justice is wholly with them ; 430 
 
 Nothing assuages their wrath, and placated 
 
 they never can be. 
 But for Bruin and Isengrim's sake, in order 
 
 them honor to pay. 
 The king had proceedings at court prolonged 
 
 for twelve days, as he wished 
 To openly show how eager he was these 
 
 lords to appease. 434 
 
CANTO VII. 183 
 
 CANTO SEVEN 
 
 And now was the court to be seen in 
 
 splendor adorned and prepared ; 
 Many knights were arriving thereat, and the 
 
 beasts, who together had come, 
 Were followed by numberless birds; high 
 
 honor did all in one breath 
 To Bruin and Isengrim give, who began 
 
 their mishaps to forget. 
 There festively sported itself the grandest 
 
 assembly by far. 
 That ever together was brought; trumpets 
 
 and kettle-drums clanged. 
 The stately dance of the court was started 
 
 with dignified grace, 
 And abundance was furnished for all of 
 
 whatever by each could be wished. 
 Herald on herald was sent through the land 
 
 to summon the guests. 
 The birds and the beasts made ready them- 
 selves and in couples arrived. 10 
 
1 84 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 They traveled by day and by night, the 
 whole of them eager to come. 
 
 But Reynard, the fox, was not there; he 
 
 was lying in wait at his home, 
 And meant not to go to the court, that 
 
 pilgrim abandoned and false ; 
 Little favor expected he there. According 
 
 to habit of old. 
 To practice his villainous tricks was the 
 
 pleasantest thing to the scamp. 
 And now at the court could be heard the 
 
 most beautiful songs of the day ; 
 Sweet food and fine wines to the guests 
 
 with unsparing hand were supplied, 
 And tilting and fencing were shown. Of 
 
 those who had come to the feast. 
 Attached himself each to his own, and in 
 
 singing and dancing engaged; 
 While at intervals, now and again, the reed- 
 pipe and flute might be heard. 20 
 And the king, from his hall up above, 
 
 looked affably down on the scene ; 
 
CANTO VII. 185 
 
 The unwieldy disorder him pleased, and to 
 gaze on it gave him delight. 
 
 Eight days had thus flown to the past (the 
 
 king had come down to the feast, 
 And taken his seat at the board among 
 
 the supreme of his lords, 
 With his consort, the queen, at his side) 
 
 when bloody the rabbit arrived, 
 And, stepping in front of the king, said 
 
 he, in most sorrowful tones : 
 
 Oh, mastef! oh, king! and all of you 
 
 here ! on me pity bestow ! 
 For cruel deception so base and murderous 
 
 actions so vile. 
 As now from the fox I endure, have seldom 
 
 been brought to your ken. 
 About six o'clock yesterday morn I came on 
 
 him seated alone, 30 
 
 As, taking a stroll on the road, before 
 
 Malepartus I passed ; 
 
1 86 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 I expected to go on my way without moles- 
 tation or fear; 
 But, clad in a pilgrim's attire, as though 
 
 morning prayer he perused. 
 He was sitting in front of his gate. When 
 
 eyes I put on him I tried 
 To pass nimbly by on my road, that I to 
 
 your court might proceed. 
 But he spied me and instantly rose ; to meet 
 
 me, stepped right in my path. 
 And I thought that he wished me to greet; 
 
 he seized me, however, instead. 
 With murd'rous intent in his grasp, and 
 
 between my ears I could feel 
 His claws in my flesh, and 'I certainly 
 
 thought that my head I should lose. 
 For long and sharp are his nails; he pressed 
 
 me below to the earth. 40 
 
 I luckily got myself free and, as I'm so 
 
 spry, I escaped ; 
 He snarled as I left him behind, and swore 
 
 he would find me again. 
 I bridled my tongue and made off; alas, he, 
 
 however, retained 
 
CANTO VII. 187 
 
 An ear that he tore from my head; and I 
 
 come with a blood-covered scalp. 
 See, from it four holes have I borne! You 
 
 will easily grasp in your minds 
 The force of the blows that he struck; 
 
 'twas a chance that I ever got up. 
 Now consider, I pray, my distress, and reflect 
 
 on your wardship as well ; 
 For who can a journey attempt, or who 
 
 can come here to your court. 
 If the robber stands guard on the roads 
 
 and - damages all who approach ? 
 
 He scarcely had drawn to a close when 
 
 alighted the talkative rook, 50 
 
 Sir Corbant, who said : Most worshipful lord 
 
 and beneficent king. 
 The tidings are sad that I have to impart; 
 
 I am not in a state 
 To say much, on account of my woe and 
 
 alarm ; and I fear very much 
 That my heart it will break, so wretched a 
 
 thing has just happened to me. 
 
1 88 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 My wife, mistress Keenbeak, and, I were 
 
 walking together today, 
 Betimes in the morn, and Reynard found 
 
 lying as dead on the heath ; 
 Both eyes were turned up in his head, and 
 
 lifeless was hanging his tongue 
 Far out of his wide open mouth. Then, 
 
 from sheer fright, I began 
 To lustily scream ; he moved himself not ; 
 
 I cried and bemoaned ; 
 Exclaimed: Woe to me! and alas! And 
 
 then I repeated the plaint: 60 
 
 Alas, he is dead ! How sorry for him and 
 
 afflicted I am ! 
 My wife was in sadness as well, and voice 
 
 gave we both to our grief. 
 I fingered him belly and head; my wife in 
 
 like manner drew near. 
 And placed herself close to his chin, to 
 
 find if his breathing at all 
 Gave indication of life, but she waited and 
 
 listened in vain ; 
 We both to this fact could have sworn. 
 
 Now, please, the calamity hear! 
 
CANTO VII. 189 
 
 As without apprehension and sad, to the 
 mouth of the treacherous scamp 
 
 She nearer put forward her beak, the mon- 
 ster took note of the act. 
 
 And at her with suddenness snapped and 
 savagely bit off her head. 
 
 How stricken with terror I was, I will not 
 attempt to describe. 70 
 
 Woe, woe ! I shouted and screamed ; then 
 darted he forth and, at once. 
 
 Snapped also at me, when backwards I 
 started and hastened to fly; 
 
 If I not so nimble had been, he would like- 
 wise have me firmly caught. 
 
 The murderer's clutches, indeed, I hardly 
 escaped as it was; 
 
 In haste I flew into a tree. Oh, had I my 
 sorrowful life 
 
 Not preserved ! My wife I could see held 
 fast in the miscreant's claws. 
 
 Alas! the dear creature he quickly devoured, 
 and to me he appeared 
 
 Voracious and famished, as if yet another 
 he gladly would eat; 
 
I go REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 He left not a bone unconsumed, not even 
 
 a knuckle remained. 
 Such was the blow I sustained. He hurried 
 
 away from the place, 80 
 
 But I was not able to leave; I flew, with 
 
 a sorrowful heart. 
 Again to the spot, where all I could find 
 
 was some feathers and blood 
 Of my wife's, and these I bring hither to 
 
 you, as a proof of the crime. 
 Have pity, beneficent lord ; for should you 
 
 at present again 
 With this dastardly traitor forbear, and legit- 
 imate vengeance defer ; 
 Should you to your safe-guards and peace 
 
 not force and due emphasis give. 
 About it much talk there might be, that 
 
 would not be much to your mind ; 
 For 'tis said, he is guilty himself of the 
 
 deed, who to punish hath power 
 And punisheth not; each then, with high 
 
 hand, tries to carry things on. 
 Your dignity it would affect; to give it 
 
 some thought would be well. 90 
 
CANTO VII. 191 
 
 Thus had the plaint of the crow and the 
 
 good little rabbit been brought 
 Before the assembled court. Then Leo, the 
 
 king, was enraged. 
 And he cried: I now, by my nuptial troth, 
 
 before all of you swear 
 That I will so punish this crime, that long 
 
 it remembered shall be. 
 My rule and safe-conduct to scoflf! That 
 
 will I never endure. 
 Too lightly by far put I trust in the scamp 
 
 and let him escape ; 
 As a pilgrim him even equipped, and saw 
 
 make his exit from here. 
 As if he were going to Rome. What 
 
 indeed did the liar not make 
 Us believe ! How well he contrived a word 
 
 in advance from the queen. 
 With ease, to secure. On me she prevailed 
 
 and now he is free. 100 
 
 But not the last one shall I be, whose heart 
 
 with repentance is wrung. 
 Through taking a woman's advice. And if 
 
 we shall longer allow 
 
192 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The villain unpunished to go, we soon 
 
 shall be covered with shame; 
 He never was aught but a knave, and such 
 
 will he ever remain. 
 Now consult you together, my lords, how 
 
 to catch him and bring him to book; 
 If about it we earnestly set, the matter 
 
 will surely succeed. 
 
 Most highly these words of the king did 
 
 Bruin and Isengrim please. 
 At last we our vengeance shall see ! Such 
 
 was the thought of them both; 
 Yet express not a word did they dare, for 
 
 clearly they saw that the king 
 Was greatly disturbed in his mind, and all 
 
 boiling over with wrath. no 
 
 And after a time said the queen: For 
 you, my dear lord, it is bad 
 
 So heavy to be in your wrath and so light 
 in the use of bad words; 
 
CANTO VII. 193 
 
 Your consequence suffers thereby, and the 
 
 value of what you may say. 
 The facts of the case have as yet by no 
 
 means been brought to the light. 
 Has yet the accused to be heard; and, 
 
 should he before us be brought. 
 Would silent be many a one, who now 
 
 against Reynard declaims. 
 Both parties should always be heard, for 
 
 many a venturesome knave 
 Brings charges to cover misdeeds of his 
 
 own. As learned and wise 
 I Reynard esteemed, without wicked 
 
 thoughts, who always, indeed. 
 Had only your good in his mind, though 
 
 now this may not so appear. 120 
 
 To follow his counsel is good, yea, even 
 
 though true that his life 
 Be such as to merit much blame. And 
 
 then it is well to reflect 
 On the ample extent of his family ties. 
 
 The matter will not 
 Be improved by precipitate haste, and 
 
 whatever it be you decide 
 
194 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 You certainly can, in the end, as lord and 
 commander, enforce. 
 
 Hereat sir Lupardus remarked: To many 
 
 you've given your ear. 
 Now also give ear unto me. He yet may 
 
 appear and what you 
 Decide upon then, at once shall be done; 
 
 so probably think 
 These lords who assembled are here, and as 
 
 well ydur illustrious queen. 
 
 Broke Isengrim in upon this: What each 
 
 may think best let him say, 130 
 
 Give ear, sir Lupardus, to me. If at this 
 
 very moment, indeed, 
 Reynard were here and himself should 
 
 acquit of this twofold complaint. 
 Still easy for me would it be, to make it 
 
 ■ as clear as the day 
 That the law has a claim on his life. But 
 
 silence I'll keep about all. 
 
CANTO VII. 195 
 
 Till we him have secured. Can you have 
 forgotten how much he the king 
 
 Deceived with that treasure of his, which 
 he should in Hiisterlo, near 
 
 Unto Krekelborn find, and the other great 
 falsehoods besides that he told ? 
 
 To all the deceiver he's played, and Bruin 
 and me has disgraced; 
 
 My life I will risk upon this. Thus now 
 is the liar engaged 
 
 On the heath; he is roving about, commit- 
 ting foul murders and thefts: 140 
 
 Seems it good to the king and his lords, 
 there matters, of course, as they are 
 
 May go on. Yet, were he in earnest him- 
 self to present at the court, 
 
 We him had here seen long ago. The 
 scouts of the king were despatched 
 
 All over the land, to summon the guests, 
 yet at home he remained. 
 
 To this said the king in reply: By wait- 
 ing so long for him here 
 
196 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 What good do we get? Let each be pre- 
 pared (thus do I command) 
 
 To go with me ofif in six days; for I, let 
 me tell you, will see 
 
 An end to these charges and grievances 
 brought. What say you, my lords? 
 
 Would the rascal not manage, at last, a land 
 to destruction to bring ? 
 
 Make ready as best you know how, and 
 come in your armor arrayed; 150 
 
 Come furnished with bow and with spear, 
 and all other weapons you have. 
 
 And show yourselves gallant and brave; 
 and before me let each of you bear. 
 
 For knights I may dub on the field, with- 
 out loss of honor his name. 
 
 Malepartus, the castle, we'll seize, and what 
 he may have in the place 
 
 We will then overhaul. Then shouted 
 they all in accord: We'll obey. 
 
 Thus did the king and his knights deter- 
 mine sir Reynard's strong fort. 
 
caNto VII. 197 
 
 Malepartus, to storm, and the fox to chas- 
 tise. But Grimbart, at this, 
 Who one of the council had been, went 
 
 stealthily out and made haste 
 .Reynard, his uncle, to find, in order to 
 
 take him the news. 
 In sorrow his road he pursued, and thus 
 
 he bemoaned to himself: 160 
 
 My uncle, what now may take place? Alas! 
 
 with good reason for thee 
 Do all of thy kindred lament, thou head of 
 
 the whole of our race. 
 When our causes were pleaded by you we 
 
 felt ourselves perfectly safe. 
 For no one could stand before you and 
 
 your varied supply of resource. 
 
 Thus going, the castle he reached and Rey- 
 nard found sitting outside, 
 
 Who had managed, just prior to this, two 
 tender young pigeons to catch, 
 
 That out of their nest had escaped, to 
 make an endeavor to fly; 
 
1 98 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 But short were their wings for the task, 
 
 and down they had fallen to earth, 
 Unable again to arise ; in this way had Rey- 
 nard them seized, 
 For he prowled about often to hunt. Just 
 
 then in the distance he saw 170 
 
 Coming Grimbart, and did him await. In 
 
 giving him greeting he said: 
 My nephew, more welcome you are than 
 
 anyone else of my blood. 
 But why are you running so hard? You 
 
 gasp! Are you bringing me iiews? 
 And Grimbart replied to him thus: The 
 
 tidings I have to announce, 
 When heard, will no solace convey; you see, 
 
 I come running through fear. 
 Your life and. estates are all lost. The 
 
 wrath of the king I have seen; 
 He swears that you now he will catch and 
 
 put to an infamous death. 
 He even has ordered us all, the sixth day 
 
 from now, with our arms 
 To march to this place, with bow and with 
 
 sword, with wagons and guns. 
 
CANTO VII. 199 
 
 Against you is everything now, so think on 
 
 the matter betimes; 180 
 
 For Bruin and Isengrim both are again hand 
 
 and glove with the king; 
 More trusted by him of a truth than I was 
 
 e'er trusted by you; 
 And all comes to pass as they wish. A 
 
 horrible cut -throat and thief 
 You Isengrim openly called, and in this 
 
 way excites he the king. 
 He has our high sheriff been made, as you, 
 
 in some weeks, will find out. 
 The rabbit appeared, and also the crow, 
 
 and they brought in the court 
 The gravest complaints against you. If 
 
 only the king have success 
 In catching you now, your life is not long 
 
 that can I but fear. 
 
 Nothing further? responded the fox. For 
 all that you, so far, have said 
 
 I care not a snap of my thumb. If the 
 
 king and his council complete 190 
 
200 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Had doubly and trebly aifirmed, and taken 
 
 inviolate oaths, 
 Yet I, when I come in theii* midst, will 
 
 raise myself up above all. 
 They advise and still they advise, yet never 
 
 can speak to the point. 
 Dear nephew, all this never mind, but 
 
 come with me now and find out 
 What you I am able to give. These 
 
 pigeons just now I have caught. 
 Young and fat; they still of all dishes I 
 
 know are the most to my taste ; 
 For easy they are to digest, one has but 
 
 to swallow them down ; 
 And sweet do the little bones taste, they 
 
 verily melt in the mouth. 
 Composed of half milk and half blood. 
 
 Spoon-meat agrees with me well. 
 And it's also the same with my wife; so 
 
 come and she will, I am sure, 200 
 
 To greet us be pleased ; yet let her not know 
 
 for what purpose you've come, 
 A trifle sinks into her heart and worries 
 
 her almost to death. 
 
CANTO VII. 201 
 
 Tomorrow with you I will go to the court, 
 
 and I hope that you there 
 Will give me, dear newhew, such help as 
 
 becomes a relation to give. 
 
 My life and my goods I engage at your 
 
 service to cheerfully place, 
 Said the badger, and Reynard replied: Be 
 
 sure I shall bear this in mind; 
 So long as I live, it shall tend to your 
 
 gain. The other rejoined; 
 Go boldly your judges to face, and your 
 
 cause do your best to defend. 
 What you have to urge they will hear; 
 
 Lupardus himself has declared 
 That punished you ought not to be, till you 
 
 have been given the chance 210 
 
 To fully put in your defence, and the 
 
 queen doth herself think the same. 
 This circumstance note and endeavor to use. 
 
 Then Reynard remarked : 
 Be only composed and all will go well. 
 
 The irascible king, 
 
202 REYNARD TitE FOX. 
 
 When lie hears me, will alter his mind; 
 it all will come right in the end. 
 
 And thus went the two within doors, and 
 
 there they with kindness were met, 
 And well by the housewife received; 
 
 whatever she had she brought forth. 
 Among them the pigeons were shared, and 
 
 tasteful and good they were found; 
 And each ate his share, still they had not 
 
 enough and undoubtedly would 
 Have well a half-dozen consumed, if but 
 
 they had been to be had. 
 
 To the badger then Reynard remarked: 
 
 You must, my dear uncle, admit 220 
 That I've children of qualities rare, with 
 
 whom every one must be pleased. 
 Now tell me how Rossel you like, and 
 
 Reinhart, the little one, too. 
 Some day they our race will augment; they 
 
 little by little begin 
 
CANTO VII. 203 
 
 Themselves to improve, and to me are a 
 
 pleasure from morning to night. 
 The one can lay hold of a fowl and the 
 
 other a chicken ensnare; 
 And well to the water they take, in order 
 
 young ducklings to fetch, 
 Or a plover, perchance. To send them more 
 
 often to hunt I should like. 
 But taught must they be, above all, with 
 
 prudence and caution to act, 
 That springes and hunters and dogs they well 
 
 may know how to avoid; 
 And then, if right methods they learn, and 
 
 reliable evidence give 230 
 
 That they are well trained, as is fitting 
 
 they should, then daily they ought 
 Provisions to find and bring in, and nought 
 
 should be wanting at home. 
 For both of them take after me and join 
 
 in the fiercest of sports; 
 And, when they begin so to play, all others 
 
 come oflF second best; 
 Their rival them feels at his throat and 
 
 struggles not long after that; 
 
204 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Which is Reynard's own manner of sport. 
 
 They also are swift in their grip, 
 And sure is the spring that they give, 
 
 which methinks is precisely the thing. 
 
 To this Grimbart said: To honor it tends, 
 
 and one may rejoice. 
 Young' children to have such as one would 
 
 desire, and who in their craft 
 Get early adroit, their parents to help. I 
 
 am very much pleased 240 
 
 To know them to be of my race, and hope 
 
 for the best at their hands. 
 That matter we'll leave for today, said 
 
 Reynard, and now let us go 
 To our rest, for we all are fatigued, and 
 
 Grimbart's completely worn out. 
 At this' they lay down in the room, which, 
 
 over the whole of its floor. 
 Was covered with hay and with leaves, and 
 
 there all together they slept. 
 
 But Reynard, through fear, kept awake; the 
 matter appeared to him now 
 
CANTO VII. 205 
 
 Of counsel the best to demand, and morn- 
 ing still found him in thought. 
 
 He got himself yp from his couoh, and unto 
 his wife he observed: 
 
 You will not be worried, I trust, but Grim- 
 bart has come to entreat 
 
 That I go with him back to the court. 
 You tranquilly rest here at home. 250 
 
 Should any one speak about me, make the 
 best of the case that you can. 
 
 And lock up the castle with care; this do, 
 and then all will go well. 
 
 And Ermelyn said: It seems to me 
 
 strange that you dare to present 
 Yourself any more at the court, where you 
 
 are so lowly esteemed. 
 Is it so that you must? I can't make it 
 
 out. Consider the past. 
 Indeed, said Reynard to this, no jesting 
 
 affair was it then ; 
 For many were seeking my harm, and I 
 
 came into terrible straits. 
 
206 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 But very diverse are the things that, under 
 
 the sun, come about. 
 Against expectation, at times, we of this 
 
 and of that have a taste; 
 And who thinks that he anything has, may 
 
 suddenly find that it's gone. 260 
 
 So let me, I pray you, depart; for I there 
 
 have a great deal to do. 
 Keep calm! That I earnestly beg; there 
 
 is not any reason for you 
 To worry yourself. The issue await, for, 
 
 my dear, you will see, 
 If only I can it effect, me in five or six 
 
 days again back. 
 And then went he forth on his way, with 
 
 Grimbart, the badger, as guard, 265 
 
CANTO VIII. 207 
 
 CANTO EIGHT 
 
 And now both together they went gtill. 
 
 further on over the heath, 
 Grimbart and Reynard the fox, direct to 
 
 the court of the king; 
 And Reynard remarked on the road: Let 
 
 matters turn out as they may, 
 I now a presentiment feel that our trip 
 
 advantageous will prove. 
 Dear uncle, attend to me, pray! Since last 
 
 unto you I confessed 
 New slips have I made again back into 
 
 culpable actions and thoughts; 
 The grave and the minor things hear, as 
 
 well as what then I forgot. 
 
 From the body and hide of the bear I 
 
 caused to be cut for my use 
 A large and available piece, and to me 
 
 have the wolf and his wife 
 Been forced to relinquish their shoes; in 
 
 this way I vented my spleen. 10 
 
208 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 All this was by lying procured; I knew 
 
 very well how the king 
 To- provoke, and him in this manner have 
 
 duped to a frightful extent, 
 For I told him a wonderful yarn and fan- 
 ciful treasures devised. 
 But that did not make me content, so 
 
 Lampen I sent to his death. 
 And Bellyn packed o£f. with the murder'd 
 
 one's head. The king was enraged 
 As soon as he noticed the ram, and made 
 
 him the reckoning pay. 
 The coney I pinched as hard as I could 
 
 at the back of his ears. 
 And nearly deprived of his life, and then 
 
 out of temper became, 
 Because he made good his escape. I must 
 
 also confess that the crow 
 Not at all with injustice complained, for 
 
 Keenbeak, his dear little wife, 20 
 
 I devoured. Such are the deeds I have 
 
 done since last I confessed. 
 But there's one thing which then I forgot, 
 
 and which to you now I will tell; 
 
CANTO VIII. 209 
 
 An infamous trick that I played, and whicli 
 
 it is right you should know, 
 For I do not desire any more such a burden 
 
 to bear. On the back 
 Of the wolf I saddled it then; we were 
 
 walking together one day, 
 Elvarden and Houlthulst between, when, a 
 
 short distance off, we espied 
 A mare in a field with her foal, and each 
 
 of the two were alike 
 As black as a raven in hue; in age the 
 
 young foal might have been 
 Approaching four months. With hunger 
 
 was Isengrim racked, so he begged 
 Me to go and enquire of the mare if she 
 
 would not sell us the foal, 30 
 
 And also the price. So to her I proceeded 
 
 and ventured the thing. 
 My dear mistress mare, to her I observed, 
 
 the foal is your own. 
 As I know; will you sell it to me? To 
 
 ascertain that is my wish. 
 She replied: If enough you will pay I with- 
 out it can very well do, 
 
210 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And the sum for its purchase required, 
 
 that you may see for yourself; 
 Behind, upon one of my feet, you will find 
 
 it engraved. Then I saw 
 What, she meant, and thereto I replied: 
 
 I must to you freely confess 
 That reading and writing with me are not 
 
 the success I could wish. 
 Nor indeed do I covet the child for myself; 
 
 it was Isengrim wished 
 Your terms with exactness to learn, and 
 
 sent me to you to find out. 40 
 
 She said in reply : Let him come ; he then 
 can find out what he wants. 
 
 I left her and Isengrim found where still he 
 was waiting for me. 
 
 ,If you would your hunger appease, just go, 
 I announced, and the mare 
 
 Will give you the colt ; the price can be 
 found on one of her hoofs. 
 
 Engraved on the frog. I could, she re- 
 marked, • try to find it myself ; 
 
If you would your hunger appease, just go,' I announced, 
 'And the mare will give you the colt.' " 
 
CANTO VIII. 211 
 
 But I, to my shame and chagrin, many- 
 things am compelled to let slip, 
 
 For reading and writing I never was 
 taught. My uncle, you try, 
 
 And look at what there is inscribed; you 
 may it decipher, perhaps. 
 
 Quoth Isengrim then: Not read it you say? 
 
 To me that were strange ! 
 German, Italian, and French, and Latin I 
 
 thoroughly know, 50 
 
 For a steady attendant I've been at the 
 
 schools which in Erfurt are found. 
 With the learned and wise of ' the place^ 
 
 including the masters of law, 
 Have judgments and questions exchanged^ 
 
 and also my license received 
 In regular form; and of writings, all kinds 
 
 that can ever be found 
 I can read with the ease of my name; I 
 
 therefore today shall not fail. 
 Wait here! I will go and the letters. 
 
 peruse, and then we shall see. 
 
212 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 He went and enquired of the mare : How 
 
 much do you ask for the foal? 
 Make it cheap! She thereupon said: The 
 
 amount you can read for yourself; 
 You will find it on one of my feet, a hind 
 
 one, distinctly engraved. 
 Let me see it, responded the wolf. She 
 
 said: I will do as you wish. 60 
 
 Then up from the grass went her foot, on 
 
 which had been fastened a shoe, 
 Beset with a half-dozen nails; straight 
 
 out flew her hoof, and went wide 
 Not so much as a hair; hit him plump on 
 
 his skull, and he fell to the earth. 
 And lay there as though he were dead. 
 
 She galloped, however, from there 
 As fast as she could. Thus wounded he 
 
 lay and long so remained. 
 An hour passed away, to move then again 
 
 he began, and he howled 
 Like a dog. I trotted then up to his side 
 
 and sir uncle, I said. 
 Pray, where is the mare ? How tasted the 
 
 colt? You feasted yourself 
 
CANTO VIII. 213 
 
 And me quite forgot^ that was" wrong, for 
 I it was brought you the news ; 
 
 After eating, a nap you enjoyed; now tell 
 
 me, I beg you, how ran 70 
 
 The writing found under the hoof? An 
 eminent scholar you are. 
 
 Said he : Are you bantering still ? Just 
 
 now have gone matters with me 
 111 . enough ! In truth, would a stone 
 
 some pity upon me bestow, 
 f hat longrleggdd jade of a mare! May 
 
 the hangman pay it her back ! 
 For clouted with iron was her foot; and 
 
 these were the letters I found: 
 Some nails newly forged! From which I 
 
 received six wounds in my head. 
 
 He, hardly, got off with his life.' I now 
 
 have confessed to you all, 
 And pardon, dear nephew, I crave for 
 
 these my iniquitous works. 
 
214 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 How things may turn out at the court is 
 
 not sure; however, I have 
 My conscience relieved of a load, and 
 
 washed myself clean from my sins. 80 
 Now tell me how I may reform, in order 
 
 remission to gain. 
 
 Then Grimbart replied: I find you encum- 
 bered afresh with misdeeds; 
 Still, the dead cannot live any more. Far 
 
 better, indeed, would it be. 
 If life you'd allowed them to keep. Yet, 
 
 uncle, I now am disposed. 
 On account of the terrible hour, and because 
 
 of the nearness of death. 
 That menaces you, your- sins to remit, as 
 
 the servant of Christ; 
 For relentless they follow you up, and I 
 
 tremble with fear for the worst. 
 Above all, for the head of the hare will 
 
 vengeance against you be sought; 
 Extremely audacious it was, I must own, 
 
 our monarch to vex, 
 
CANTO VIII. 215 
 
 And is of more damage to you than you, 
 in your foolishness, thought. 90 
 
 Not a scrap, responded the scamp. Here's 
 something I wish you to hear: 
 
 To live without sin in the world is some- 
 thing uncommonly rare, 
 
 One cannot so holy be kept, as when in a 
 cloister, you know ; 
 
 If a man has with honey to deal, his 
 fingers he licks now and then. 
 
 Now Lampen me greatly annoyed, for back- 
 wards and forwards he skipped 
 
 In front of my eyes all about; his fat little 
 body I liked. 
 
 And love I let go to the dogs. To Bellyn 
 I'd reason to wish 
 
 But little that's good. The damage is 
 theirs, the sin is mine own. 
 
 But they were in measure so coarse, and in 
 all, whatsoever they did. 
 
 So stupid and dull. Needed I, then, observe 
 strict decorum with them? 100 
 
2l6 REYNARD THE FOX; ' • - 
 
 Small liking had I for such things; myself, 
 
 at that time, from the court 
 I had with anxiety saved, and taught them 
 
 in this and in that, 
 But 'twas all of no use. Each ought, it 
 
 is true, his neighbor to love. 
 That I',m constrained to admit, still I held 
 
 them in little esteem; 
 And dead is dead, as you your, own self 
 
 have remarked; then permit 
 Us of other things now to converse. In 
 
 truth, these are dangerous times! 
 In • high^ life and low what is now going 
 
 on? But talk we must not; 
 Yet cannot help using our eyes and having 
 
 some thoughts of our own. 
 
 The .king himself steals, as we know, lil^e 
 
 all the rest of the crowd ; 
 What, he does not. lay hands, on, hirps^lf he 
 
 orders the bears and the wolves ; no 
 To secure, and believes that so doing is 
 
 right. There is none to be found 
 
CANTO VIII. 217 
 
 Who will venture to tell him the truth, 
 
 not even confessor or priest, 
 So deep has the evil struck root. They 
 
 are dumb! and why is this so? 
 With him they the plunder enjoy, no mat- 
 ter how small is the gain. 
 Should any one go and complain, with equal 
 
 advantage he might 
 Rea,ch out for the air; he squanders his 
 
 time, and had better employ 
 Himself in some other pursuit. For gone 
 
 is gone, and when once 
 f'rom .yo^ ^ more potent one takes what 
 
 you have possessed, to your plaint 
 But little attention is paid, and wearisome 
 
 gets it at last, 
 ^he lion's our monarch and lord, and all 
 
 things to seize for himself. 120 
 
 He considers as due to his rank. As a 
 
 rule, us his people he calls, 
 And certainly all that is ours appears -to 
 
 belong unto him. 
 
2l8 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Wilt allow me, my uncle, to speak? Our 
 
 king is the fondest, by far. 
 Of those with full hands who approach, and 
 
 who, in accord with the tune 
 That is piped, understand how to dance; 
 
 too clearly is that to be seen. 
 That the wolf and the bear have obtained 
 
 access to his council again 
 Is to many a wrong; they steal and they 
 
 rob, yet are loved by the king. 
 All see it, and yet nothing say, each hoping 
 
 that his turn will come. 
 Over four there are thus to be found, hav- 
 ing place at the side of the king, 
 Who favored are more than the rest, and 
 
 greatest of all are at court. 130 
 
 But if a poor devil like me put hands 
 
 upon even a chick, 
 Upon him, they pounce all at once and 
 
 follow till he has been caught; 
 And then, with one voice, they condemn the 
 
 fellow with clamor to death. 
 Petty robbers are hanged on the spot, the 
 
 bigger ones get for themselves 
 
CANTO VIII. 219 
 
 Advantages great. They govern the land 
 and the castles possess. 
 
 See; uncle, I notice all this, and upon it 
 can't help but reflect. 
 
 My own game I thereupon play and, more- 
 over, I think very oft 
 
 That right it assuredly is, since such a great 
 number so act. 
 
 To be sure, then my conscience wakes up 
 and pictures to me, from afar, 
 
 The anger and justice of God, and makes 
 me reflect on the end. 140 
 
 For injustice, no matter how small, compen- 
 sation at last must be made. 
 
 Repentance at heart I then feel; it lasts, 
 however, not long. 
 
 Indeed, what good does it do to belong to 
 the best? For the best 
 
 From slander's vile tongue, in these times, 
 remain not in safety exempt. 
 
 The people now think it their right into 
 all kinds of things to enquire. 
 
 And no one they lightly forget; they invent 
 even this thing and that. 
 
220 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Little good in the commons is found, but 
 
 few of them really deserve 
 To have for their rulers and lords such 
 
 men as are honest and just; 
 For of that which is evil they sing, and 
 
 ever and ever they talk; 
 They know what is good in their lords, bje 
 
 high or be low their degree, 150 
 
 Yet this they say nothing about, and seldom 
 
 we find it discussed. 
 Worst of all is, however, to me the conceit 
 
 of that notion so false, 
 Which gets, such a hold of mankind, tha^ 
 
 any one can, in the strife 
 Of a vehement, turbulent will, direct the 
 
 affairs of the, world. 
 Should each one his children and yni&^ 
 
 however, in order maintain, 
 Or his insolent servants contrive to subdue, 
 
 then in, calmness ,he coulfi, 
 Wliile fools are e:^pending their me^ns, 
 
 rejoice in a temperate life. . 
 But how shall the world be improved, 
 
 when each allows all to himself, 
 
CANTO VIII. 221 
 
 And determines the rest of mankind by- 
 force to bring under his rule? 
 
 Thus deeper, and deeper, for aye, into all 
 that is wicked we sink. i6o 
 
 Slander and treason and lies, and taking of 
 oaths that are false, 
 
 Embezzlement, murder, and theft, one hears 
 nought of anything else; 
 
 False prophets and hypocrites both are 
 shamefully cheating mankind. 
 
 Thus every one passes his life ; and, if they 
 
 be faithfully warned. 
 They receive it with scorn, and remark: 
 
 Oh yes! but if sin were, indeed. 
 So painful and hard to be borne as learned 
 
 men here and there preach. 
 Then surely the parsons themselves would 
 
 try from all faults to be free. 
 Bad example they plead as excuse, and in 
 
 that are precisely allied 
 To the whole of the simian race, which, 
 
 formed but to mimic and mock, 
 
222 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Yet having nor reason nor choice, must 
 suffer ineffable harm. 170 
 
 Of a truth, ought the men of the cloth 
 
 themselves to more fitly demean. 
 Very much could by them be achieved, if 
 
 it only in private they did; 
 But they care not a tittle for us outside of 
 
 their calling and craft. 
 And practice whatever they please in front 
 
 of our eyes, as if we 
 Were stricken with blindness complete; too 
 
 clearly however we see 
 That their vows rejoice the good Lord to 
 
 fully as small an extent 
 As suit they their fallible friends, whose 
 
 lives by the world are absorbed. 
 
 Thus do the priests, as a rule, on the 
 
 opposite side of the Alps, 
 Their own precious darlings enjoy; in these 
 
 regions also there are 
 
CANTO VIII. 223 
 
 As many who sinfully act. But I shall be 
 
 told that they have 180 
 
 Their children like those who in wedlock 
 
 are joined; and them to maintain 
 They struggle with ardor and zeal, and 
 
 raise them high up in the world. 
 But afterwards these can reflect no more 
 
 whence their fathers arose, 
 And to none will precedency yield, but 
 
 proudly and haughtily walk 
 As if they were noble of race, and always 
 
 are firm in the thought 
 That the matter is strictly correct. A custom 
 
 of yore it was not 
 So high to regard the children of priests, 
 
 but now are they all 
 As my lords and my ladies addressed. Yes, 
 
 money can do what it will. 
 It is seldom a princely estate can be found, 
 
 where the parsons do not 
 Make a levy of taxes and rents, and extort 
 
 from the village and mill. 190 
 
 They turn topsy-turvy the world, and com- 
 mon folk wickedness learn ; 
 
224 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 For 'tis plain when the clergy thus do, 
 
 that all in their sins will indulge, 
 And the. blind will be leading the blind 
 
 away from whatever is good. 
 Indeed, who has ever remarked the good 
 
 works of these heaven-born priests, 
 And how they the holy church, by example 
 
 of goodness, build up? 
 Who ever lives now in such way ? We 
 
 are simply confirmed in our sins. 
 Thus it now with the people befalls, so 
 
 how can the world then improve ? 
 
 But listen still further to me! If one 
 
 out of wedlock is born. 
 Then let him thereover be still. What 
 
 more can he do in the case? 
 Now I mean only this understand: If ariy 
 
 such one shall himself 200 
 
 But simply with meekness conduct, and not 
 
 with an air of conceit 
 His fellows provoke, no offence is received, 
 
 and one would be wrong 
 
CANTO VIII. 225 
 
 To make it a subject of talk. Our birtli 
 
 has no power us to make 
 Either good or exalted in mind, nor can it 
 
 be held for reproach; 
 But virtue and vice are the things that 
 
 make true distinctions in man. 
 Men of learning and worth in the church 
 
 are ever with justice esteemed 
 And honored by all ; but the wicked a 
 
 wicked example present. 
 Should such a one preach at his best, yet 
 
 at length will the laity say : 
 When he righteousness talks and wickedness 
 
 does, how are we to select? 
 Nor is he of use to the church; to each 
 
 in his sermons he says: 210 
 
 Give money to keep up the church ; that, 
 
 beloved, is what I advise. 
 If indulgence and mercy you wish to obtain. 
 
 ,Thus his discourse he ends. 
 And does precious little to help, indeed, not 
 
 a thing; and, for all 
 That he cares, might the church tumble 
 
 down. Still further to go, he esteems 
 
226 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The best kind of life to be this: in costly 
 
 attire to be clothed, 
 And to eat of the daintiest food. And in 
 
 worldly affairs if he finds 
 Himself overwhelmed with concern, how can 
 
 he in worship engage? 
 Good parsons in serving the Lord are daily 
 
 and hourly employed. 
 And put into practice the good; and thus 
 
 to the holy church 
 Of the greatest of service , they are ; and, 
 
 through good example, their flocks, 220 
 To the gate of salvation they lead, by the 
 
 way that is narrow and strait. 
 
 But I know the behooded as well; they 
 
 prattle and jabber and prate 
 Ever concerning their forms, and are always 
 
 in search of the rich; 
 The people to flatter know how, and love 
 
 to be called as their guests. 
 Invite you but one, then a second arrives, 
 
 and you further will find 
 
CANTO viir. 227 
 
 Yet two or three others appear. Then 
 
 again, in the convent the one 
 Who well understands how to talk the 
 
 quickest promotion will gain ; 
 The lector is sure to become, or may be 
 
 the custos or prior. 
 The others are pushed to one side. The 
 
 dishes are furnished and served 
 In quite a dissimilar way; for some must, 
 
 of nights, in the choir 230 
 
 Sing and read, and visit the haunts of the 
 
 dead, while others obtain 
 Great favors, and rest can procure, and eat 
 
 the most costly of food. 
 
 The legates likewise of the pope, the abbots 
 
 and prelates and monks. 
 The beguins and even the nuns, of all a 
 
 great deal might be said. 
 Everywhere is the cry : Give me what is 
 
 yours and touch not what's mine. 
 In truth, there are few to be found, not 
 
 seven, who live in accord 
 
228 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 With the brotherhood's precepts and rules, 
 
 as a pattern of virtuous life. 
 The priesthood is thus to be found most 
 
 thoroughly rotten and weak. 
 
 My uncle, the badger replied, I see you 
 
 minutely confess 
 Exotical sins. What advantageth that? 
 
 Methinks there must be 240 
 
 Enough of your own. And tell me, my 
 
 uncle, why you should concern 
 Yourself with the clergy's affairs and this 
 
 thing and that, as you do? 
 Let each his own burden take up, and each 
 
 and every one give 
 Account of himself, how he in his station 
 
 of life doth attempt 
 His duty to do, which is something that 
 
 no one on earth may neglect, 
 Not either the old or the young, in cloister 
 
 or out in the world. 
 You talk altogether too much about things 
 
 of all kinds, and at length 
 
CANTO VIII. 229 
 
 Might me into error seduce. So thoroughly 
 
 well you're aware 
 How now is directed the world, and all its 
 
 affairs are ordained, 
 That none for a parson is better endowed. 
 
 With the rest of the sheep, 250 
 
 I would come to confess at your house, and 
 
 ■ under your teaching would sit. 
 Of your wisdom a knowledge to get; for I 
 
 am compelled to admit 
 That stupid and rough the most of us are, 
 
 and need good advice. 
 
 When they, in such converse as this, had 
 
 come pretty near to the court, 
 Reynard said: Thus now is the Rubicon 
 
 passed! and he roused himself up. 
 And they came upon Martin the ape, who, 
 
 just at that time, had set forth. 
 With intention to travel to Rome. He 
 
 gave a good day to them both. 
 Dear uncle, stand well to your guns, he 
 
 sagely remarked to the fox. 
 
230 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And asked about this thing and that, 
 
 although the whole matter he knew. 
 Ah ! how in these lattermost days does fort- 
 une against me take sides, " 260 
 Said Reynard to him in reply; some thieves 
 
 have been at it again 
 And accused me once more, I know not of 
 
 whom they consist, but. in chief 
 Are the wretched young rabbit and crow; 
 
 the one is bereft of his wife. 
 And the other of one of his ears. Now 
 
 what do I care about that? 
 Could only I speak with the king, then 
 
 smart should they both for their pains. 
 But most I'm impeded by this, that under 
 
 the ban of the pope 
 I still, to my sorrow, remain. The dean 
 
 has full power in the case, 
 And he is esteemed by the king. Now 
 
 the ban has upon me been put 
 Entirely for Isengrim's sake, who once had 
 
 become a recluse, 
 But ran from the convent away, wherein he 
 
 sojourned at Elkmar. 270 
 
CANTO VIII. 231 
 
 He swore that he could not so live, for he 
 
 was too strictly confined, 
 From food had too long to abstain, nor 
 
 could so much reading endure ; 
 So I helped him away from the place. It 
 
 repents me the deed to have done. 
 For he slanders me now to the king and 
 
 ever me seeks to disgrace. 
 To Rome must I go? In the meantime at 
 
 home will my family be 
 At loss what to do for themselves, for the 
 
 wolf cannot leave them alone, 
 But molests . them where meet them he may. 
 
 Then again, very many there are 
 Who think nought but evil of me, and 
 
 seize on whatever is mine. 
 If I were released from the ban, in far 
 
 better state should I be. 
 My fortune again at the court to follow 
 
 with comfort and ease. 280 
 
 Then Martin replied: I can help you in 
 this; it happens that I, 
 
232 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Just now am departing for Rome, and you 
 
 with some dodges can serve. 
 Oppressed will I not let you be! As clerk 
 
 to the bishop, methinks 
 I know how the work should be done. I 
 
 surely will see that the dean , 
 Forthwith shall be cited to Rome, and then 
 
 I against him will fight. 
 Mind, uncle, the business I'll push, and 
 
 how to direct it I know. 
 I'll see that the judgment's enforced ; you 
 
 doubtless through me, will obtain 
 Your discharge; I will fetch it- myself, and 
 
 then shall your enemies all 
 Laugh the wrong side of their face; both 
 
 money and pains they shall lose. 
 I well understand how matters are managed 
 
 at Rome, and I know 290 
 
 What ought and ought not to be done. 
 
 My uncle, lord Simony's there. 
 Well regarded and mighty he is, and help 
 
 gives to all who well pay; 
 Sir Pluralist too, such a lord! Doctor 
 
 Skinflint and others beside; 
 
CANTO VIII. 233 
 
 And Turncoat and Trimmer to boot, I have 
 
 the whole lot for my friends. 
 My funds I have sent on ahead, for thus, 
 
 you must know, does one there 
 The best of impressions produce. Of cita- 
 tions, indeed, they discourse, 
 But money alone they desire; and let the 
 
 whole matter be found 
 How crooked soever it may, with good pay 
 
 I will straighten it out. 
 If money you bring, then grace you'll 
 
 obtain, but let you it lack. 
 The doors then against you closed. You 
 
 tranquilly rest here at home ; 300 
 
 Your business I'll take on myself, and 
 
 loosen its knottiest knots. 
 You now go your way to the court. Dame 
 
 Riickenau there you will find. 
 My spouse, who is held in the highest 
 
 esteem by our master the king. 
 As also she is by the queen. She is 
 
 quick in the use of her wit, 
 So tell her the case; she is wise and 
 
 intercedes gladly for friends ; 
 
234 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Many relatives there you will find. It 
 does not, at all times, avail 
 
 The right of a matter to have. Two sis- 
 ters with her you will find. 
 
 And three of my children as well, besides 
 many more of your race. 
 
 To render you service prepared in whatever- 
 way you desire. 
 
 And should you your rights be denied, you 
 then will some knowledge obtain 310 
 
 Of what I can do; and if you're oppressed, 
 let me quickly it know. 
 
 And I'll have the whole land placed under 
 the ban, the monarch and all 
 
 Of the women and children and men. An 
 interdict I will have sent. 
 
 And no one shall sing any more, nor cele- 
 brate mass, nor baptize, 
 
 Nor bury, whatever it be. Take comfort, 
 my nephew, in this! 
 
 For aged and sick is the pope; himself he 
 no longer concerns 
 
CANTO VIII. 235 
 
 With affairs, and is little esteemed. Also 
 
 now at the court of the king 
 Has cardinal Querulous absolute power, and 
 
 he is a young 
 And a vigorous man, a mettlesome man, 
 
 with a mind of his own. 
 He's in love with a woman I know, and 
 
 she him a letter shall take, 320 
 
 And what it may be she demands she 
 
 knows very well how to get; 
 And his writer John Faction is there, who 
 
 is most precisely informed 
 In coins, whether ancient or new; then 
 
 Jonathan Pry, his compeer. 
 Is a gay hanger on of the court; and the 
 
 notary, Slippery Dick, 
 A bachelor is of both kinds of law, and if 
 
 he shall remain 
 Yet longer a year, then in practical writings 
 
 he perfect will be. 
 Beyond these, two judges are there, who 
 
 go by the names of Lovegold 
 And Palmitch; and if they any ruling pro- 
 nounce, then as law it remains. 
 
236 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Thus put into practice in Rome are many 
 
 a prank and a trick 
 That knows the pope nothing about. 
 
 Friends must we make for ourselves, 330 
 For by them are forgiven our sins, and also 
 
 are persons released 
 From the ban. My dearest of uncles, you 
 
 may surely rely upon this! 
 For long has the king been aware that I 
 
 will not allow you to fall. 
 Your case I will see to its end, and that 
 
 I am able to do: 
 He would also do well to reflect that many 
 
 there are, to the apes 
 And the foxes connected by ties, who best 
 
 him with counsel assist ; 
 And that will you certainly help, go mat- 
 ters however they may. 
 
 Reynard then spake: This comforts me 
 much; I shall bear it in mind, 
 
 Should now I but get myself free. Then 
 each of the other took leave. 
 
CANTO VIII. 237 
 
 Under safeguard of Grimbart the badger 
 
 alone now Reynard pursued 
 His way to the court of the king, where 
 
 bitter against him they felt. 341 
 
238 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 CANTO NINE 
 
 Sir Reynard had come to the court, believing 
 
 that he could avert 
 The actions which threatened him there, 
 
 yet as he went in and perceived 
 Together his numerous foes, as all stood 
 
 about in the place. 
 Each eager himself to avenge, and him to 
 
 see punished with death, 
 His courage gave way ; he began to distrust, 
 
 yet boldly he walked 
 Right in through the midst of the lords, 
 
 with Grimbart along at his side. 
 They came to the throne of the king, and 
 
 Grimbart there whispered and said : 
 Now Reynard, give way to no fear; to the 
 
 timid, remember, be sure, 
 Will fortune her favors not grant; the 
 
 daring do danger invite. 
 And joy in its presence to be ; it helps 
 
 them again to escape. 10 
 
 Reynard said: You tell me the truth, and 
 
 I give you my heartiest thanks 
 
CANTO IX. 239 
 
 For the splendid support of your words; if 
 
 ever again I get free. 
 I shall bear them in mind. He looked! 
 
 now around, and many of kin 
 Could in the assemblage be seen, yet few 
 
 as supporters to claim. 
 Nearly all he was wont to ill-treat; with 
 
 the otters and beavers, indeed, 
 Alike both the great and the small, he had 
 
 practiced his villainous tricks; 
 Yet discovered he plenty of friends inside 
 
 of the hall of the king. 
 
 In front of the throne he bowed to the 
 
 earth and soberly said : 
 May God, from whom nothing is hid, and 
 
 who ever mighty remains, 
 Preserve you, my lord and my king, and 
 
 also preserve, none the less, 20 
 
 Our sovereign lady the queen, and jointly 
 
 may he on you both 
 Perception and wisdom bestow, so that you 
 
 with discretion may now 
 
240 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Distinguish the right from the wrong, for 
 
 much of deception there is 
 In vogue among men in these days. Thus 
 
 outwardly many things seem 
 What, in matter of fact, they are not. 
 
 Had each on his forehead engraved 
 "What he thinks, and the king should it 
 
 see, it then would be clearly revealed 
 That utter untruths I do not, and to serve 
 
 you am always prepared. 
 The wicked, I know, do me gravely accuse, 
 
 and would greatly delight 
 To disgrace, and out from your favor to 
 
 oust, as if of the same 
 I had unworthy been found. But of justice 
 
 I know the strong love 30 
 
 Of my sovereign master and king, for him 
 
 has none ever induced 
 The way of the law to obstruct, and thus 
 
 will it ever remain. 
 
 Now all of them came and pressed in, 
 and every one there was bewitched 
 
CANTO IX. 241 
 
 By Reynard's intrepid display, and him was 
 
 each aching to hear. 
 His criminal deeds wer.e all known, how 
 
 then could he think to escape? 
 
 Reynard, you knave, said the king, think 
 not any more that your words. 
 
 So glibly pronounced, will you save ; no 
 longer are they of avail 
 
 To cover deception and lies; your game 
 has now come to an end. 
 
 Your faithful devotion to me, you have, I 
 believe, well evinced 
 
 On the rabbit as well as the crow! Suffi- 
 cient were that of itself;. 40 
 
 But treason you bring into play, whether 
 home or abroad you may be, 
 
 Your strokes are malicious and prompt, yet 
 not any further will they 
 
 Be endured, your measure is full; but I 
 will no longer reprove. 
 
 Reynard thought: What now can I do? 
 Oh, could I again but succeed 
 
242 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 In getting once more to my home! But 
 
 where shall I look for the means? 
 
 However it goes, .through with it I must. 
 Let us everything try. 
 
 Most noble sovereign, mighty king, he began 
 
 to hold forth, 
 If you think I have merited death, then 
 
 my case you assuredly have 
 Beheld from a wrong point of view; I 
 
 therefore implore that you will 
 At least hear me through. Till now I 
 
 have you to your profit advised, 50 
 
 In need I have stood at your side, when 
 
 some, as you know, fell away. 
 Who between us are pushing themselves, 
 
 my ruin to try to effect, 
 And their chances improve while I am 
 
 away. With them you might well, 
 Noble king, when I have to speak been 
 
 allowed, the matter adjust. 
 After that, if guilty I'm found, my fate I 
 
 of course must endure. 
 
CANTO IX. 243 
 
 But little of me have you thought, while I, 
 all over the land', 
 
 In different places about, have the closest 
 of watches maintained. 
 
 Think you that I now should come to the 
 court, if I myself knew 
 
 To be guilty of great or e'en little mis- 
 deeds? With prudence I should 
 
 Have fled from the place where you are, 
 and my enemies tried to avoid. 60 
 
 No indeed, from my stronghold at home, 
 most assuredly would 
 
 Not all the world's gold have me here been 
 able to tempt, for I there 
 
 Was free on my own ground and soil. 
 But in fact I no consciousness have 
 
 Of one evil deed that I've done, so here 
 my appearance have made. 
 
 I was staying for nought but to watch ; 
 there brought me my uncle the news 
 
 That I was required at the court. I had 
 just been thinking afresh 
 
 How might I get rid of the ban, and there- 
 over, with Martin the ape. 
 
244 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Much converse have recently had, who 
 
 sacredly promised he would 
 From the incubus get me set free. I, 
 
 myself, am in transit to Rome, 
 He remarked, and from now to its end the 
 
 matter I fully will take 70 
 
 On myself; go you to the court and you 
 
 shall get rid of the ban. 
 Lo! thus me did Martin advise, and what 
 
 he's about he must know. 
 For the eminent bishop, lord Waver, him 
 
 constantly has in employ; 
 For fully five years has Martin him served 
 
 in judicial affairs. 
 And thus come I here to your court, com- 
 plaint on complaint but to find. 
 The coney backbites me, the toad; now 
 
 Reynard, however, is here 
 In person himself, so let him come forward 
 
 and speak to my face; 
 For indeed 'tis an easy affair complaints of 
 
 the absent to bring; 
 But the opposite • side must be heard, ere 
 
 the matter to judgment shall come. 
 
CANTO IX. 245 
 
 Those treacherous comrades of mine! By 
 
 all that is holy, they have 80 
 
 Themselves well enjoyed at my hands, the 
 
 rabbit as well as the crow. 
 The day before yesterday morn, ere the 
 
 sun had got up, I was met 
 By the rabbit, who greeted me fair; at 
 
 that very moment myself 
 I in front of my castle had placed, for 
 
 reading the prayers of the day; 
 He made me aware that he was en route 
 
 to the court; then I said: 
 May God you attend! At this he com- 
 plained of how hungry and tired 
 He had grown. Then friendly I asked: 
 
 Desire you not something to eat? 
 With thankfulness I will accept, he replied. 
 
 I said in response: 
 I will gladly it give. So I went with him 
 
 in and, quick as could be, 
 I cherries and butter produced; for on 
 
 Wednesdays I never eat meat. 90 
 
 And he ate, to his heart's content, of bread 
 
 and of butter and fruits. 
 
24-6 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 But now the last born of my sons stepped 
 
 up to the table, to see 
 If anything over remained, for children do 
 
 always love food. 
 At something the lad made a grab, when 
 
 the rabbit him gave such a blow, 
 With suddenness over his mouth, that from 
 
 lips and from teeth ran the blood. 
 Now Reinhart, my other young son, saw 
 
 the blow and the hypocrite seized 
 Direct by the throat, played well his own 
 
 game, and his brother avenged. 
 That happened ; not more and not less. I 
 
 tarried not long from the spot, 
 But ran and chastised the two boys, and 
 
 managed with trouble them both 
 Away from the rabbit to get. His punish- 
 ment let him endure, lOO 
 For he merited more than he got, and the 
 
 youngsters could well, I am sure. 
 Had I any evil desired, have thoroughly 
 
 finished him up. 
 And thus he now gives me his thanks! 
 
 He says that I pulled off his ear; 
 
CANTO IX. 247 
 
 Yet he was with honor received, a token 
 of which he has kept. 
 
 To me, after this, came the crow, and his 
 
 lamentation poured forth ; 
 His wife he had lost, who had eaten 
 
 too much and herself had thus killed, 
 For a fish of a passable size, with all of its 
 
 bones, she had gulped. 
 As to where the misfortune occurred, that 
 
 he can best tell; but he says 
 That I have her slain. I'll wager he did 
 
 it himself, and if he 
 Were earnestly asked if I had it done, his 
 
 tune he would change. no 
 
 Crows fly up too far in the air, no 
 
 jump can attain such a height. 
 
 If any "One wish to accuse me of actions 
 
 forbidden like these, 
 Let him do it with evidence lawful and 
 
 just, for thus is it fit 
 
248 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 To prosecute worshipful men; this ought I 
 
 at least to expect. 
 But if none of this kind can be found, yet 
 
 another resource is at hand; 
 Here! I am prepared for a tilt! Let the 
 
 day be appointed and place, 
 Then let an opponent of worth himself 
 
 introduce in the list, 
 With me a full equal by birth, then each 
 
 can proceed with his claim ; 
 Who honor shall gain in the strife, with 
 
 him let it ever remain ; 
 Things always have thus been set right, 
 
 and I nothing better demand. 120 
 
 All stood there and heard what he said, 
 
 and everyone at the words 
 Of Reynard was greatly surprised, which he 
 
 had so boldly pronounced. 
 And as to the rabbit and crow, they both 
 
 were confounded with fright; 
 They quitted the court and ventured not 
 
 further to utter a word; 
 
CANTO IX. 249 
 
 But each to the other remarked: 'Twould 
 
 not quite advisable be 
 With him any more to dispute; all means 
 
 that we know we might try, 
 And then not be near to success. Who is 
 
 there that saw what he did? 
 Alone with the rascal we were, for witness 
 
 then whom could we get? 
 After all the disgrace would be ours. For 
 
 all of his numberless crimes 
 May the hangman upon him await, and 
 
 pay him as he has deserved! 130 
 
 He would like us in combat to meet? 
 
 That might with us badly turn out. 
 No, in truth! that's a thing we would rather 
 
 avoid; for nimble and false, 
 Deceitful and base, we know him to be. 
 
 Indeed we, all five, 
 Should not against him be enough, and 
 
 dearly therefor should we pay. 
 
 But Bruin and Isengrim both were ill at 
 their ease; they observed, 
 
250 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 With annoyance, the two sneak away from 
 the place. The monarch then said: 
 
 If any one yet has complaint, let him come! 
 We will hear what it is. 
 
 So many but yesterday blamed, here stands 
 the accused! Where are they? 
 
 Quoth Reynard at this: Thus it commonly 
 
 goes; either this one or that 
 Is impeached, yet, when he comes, here his 
 
 accusers remain at their homes. 140 
 
 These two little mischievous rogues, the 
 
 rabbit and likewise the crow, 
 Would gladly have brought me to shame, 
 
 and damage and punishment too. 
 But now they apologies make, and I them 
 
 forgive ; for, indeed, 
 They hesitate, now that I'm here, and slip 
 
 aside out of the way. 
 How I should have made them ashamed! 
 
 You see how with danger 'tis fraught. 
 Your ear to the wretched defamers of 
 
 servants not present to lend. 
 
CANTO IX. 251 
 
 The law they do naught but pervert, and 
 are hateful to all of true worth. 
 
 For the rest only pity I feel, and care 
 not about^ them a straw. 
 
 Attend! said the king upon this, you traitor 
 
 malicious and mean ! 
 Pray tell us what ^ urged you to this, that 
 
 Lampen, the trusted and true, 150 
 
 Who used my despatches to bear, you killed 
 
 in so shameful a way? 
 Had I not forgiven you all, so far as you 
 
 ever had sinned? 
 From me you received both a wallet and 
 
 staff, thus provided you were 
 For a journey to Rome and over the sea; 
 
 you nothing I grudged. 
 And hoped for amendment from you; but 
 
 now I find out, at the start. 
 How Lampen of life you deprived, and 
 
 Bellyn as messenger made 
 You to serve, to bring in the knapsack his 
 
 head; and who, when he came, 
 
2 52 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Said out, before all, that despatches lie 
 
 brought, which together had you 
 Indited and penned; and you, to the best 
 
 of his power, he had helped; 
 And I found in the knapsack the head, no 
 
 more and no less than the head. i6o 
 This was done in defiance of me, and Bel- 
 
 lyn at once I retained 
 As a pledge, his life was the price, and 
 
 now we will see about yours. 
 
 Reynard said: What's this that I hear? 
 Lampen is killed? And I find 
 
 My Bellyn no more? What of me will 
 become? Oh, dead that I were! 
 
 Ah me! With them I have lost a trea- 
 sure unequalled in worth. 
 
 I sent you some jewels by them, none better 
 nor finer than which. 
 
 All over the world, can be found. Who 
 could have believed that the ram 
 
 Would Lampen have murdered like this, 
 and you of those riches have robbed? 
 
CANTO IX. 253 
 
 One must be on one's guard, even when 
 no suspicion of danger exists. 
 
 In fury, the, king would not hear the whole 
 
 of what Reynard would say; 170 
 
 To his chamber he turned himself off, not 
 
 having with clearness, indeed, 
 Reynard's words understood; and him he 
 
 intended to punish with death. 
 And, as soon as he came to his room, he 
 
 found in his presence the queen, 
 Who there, with dame Riickenau, stood. 
 
 Now the ape was especially dear 
 To king, as well as to queen, which useful 
 
 to Reynard would be. 
 Accomplished and prudent she was, and 
 
 very proficient in speech ; 
 Where'er she appeared, a sensation she 
 
 made, and was honored by all. 
 The king's indignation she saw, and to 
 
 him circumspectly she said: 
 When you, gracious master and king, have 
 
 hearkened at times to my suit. 
 
2 54 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 No cause have you had for regret; you 
 always my boldness condoned i8o 
 
 In speaking a quieting word when some- 
 thing your anger had roused. 
 
 At present be likewise disposed to listen 
 to me; it concerns 
 
 My own proper race, of a truth ! And 
 who can one's own disavow? 
 
 Now Reynard, whate'er he may be, is a 
 kinsman of mine, and if I 
 
 Shall frankly confess how his conduct 
 appears unto me, -I must say. 
 
 Since now to the law he submits, I think 
 very well of his case. 
 
 His father, like him, was compelled, not- 
 withstanding the favor of yours. 
 
 Much evil from venomous tongues and per- 
 jured accusers to bear; 
 
 Yet always he put them to shame. So 
 soon as more closely his case 
 
 Was examined, quite clear it became; but 
 yet did the envious knaves 190 
 
 Try even his merits to make as heinous 
 transgressions appear. 
 
'Now Reynard, whate'er he may be, is a kinsman of mine." 
 
CANTO IX. 255 
 
 Thus ever himself he maintained in greater 
 esteem at the court 
 
 Than Bruin and Isengrim now; indeed, 
 'twere of these to be wished 
 
 That they should be able to cast the griev- 
 ances all on one side, 
 
 That are constantly heard about them; but 
 little do they apprehend 
 
 Of justice and right, as is shown by their 
 counsel as well as their life. 
 
 Here answered, however, the king: But 
 
 how can it cause you surprise. 
 That I am with Reynard provoked? The 
 
 thief who, a short time ago, 
 Put Lampen to death, led Bellyn astray, 
 
 and with insolence now 
 All flatly denies; and himself, as a servant 
 
 straightforward and true, 200 
 
 Has boldness enough to extol! In the 
 
 meantime do all as one man 
 Raise .with loud voices complaints, and only 
 
 too clearly show forth 
 
256 REYNARD THE FOX. , 
 
 How he my safe-conduct defies, and also 
 
 how he, with his thefts, 
 His robbings and murders, the land and my 
 
 faithful retainers despoils. 
 Indeed, I'll no longer it bear! In answer 
 
 thereto said the ape: 
 In truth not to many is granted the gift, 
 
 in things of all kinds, 
 To act with discretion and counsel with 
 
 skill, and he who succeeds 
 Will certainly coniidence earn but the en- 
 vious try all they can 
 To covertly do him a hurt; and, soon as 
 
 their numbers increase, 
 They openly make their attempts. With 
 
 Reynard it often has thus 210 
 
 Of yore come about; they cannot, however, 
 
 efface from our minds 
 How he has you wisely .advised in cases 
 
 where others were dumb. 
 You know (it but lately took place) how the 
 
 man and the serpent came here 
 To solicit your aid, and the case there was 
 
 none who knew how to decide; 
 
CANTO IX. 257 
 
 But Reynard discovered a way, and you 
 lauded him then before all. 
 
 To this did the monarch rejoin, after brief 
 
 meditation thereon : 
 I remember the matter quite well, yet now 
 
 it has gone from my mind 
 How in detail it all came about; it was 
 
 somewhat entangled, methinks. 
 If you can still say how it was, I gladly, 
 
 shall hear your account. 
 She answered the king: As my lord has 
 
 commanded so shall it be done. 220 
 
 Just two years ago or about, a dragon 
 
 appeared and complained, 
 With turmoil, to you, gracious lord, that a 
 
 peasant could not be induced 
 Himself to submit to the law; a man against 
 
 whom the decree 
 Had twice been pronounced. To the court of 
 
 your highness the peasant she brought. 
 
258 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And Stated the matter at lengtli, with, 
 numerous violent words. 
 
 Through a hole, that she found in a hedge, 
 
 the serpent intended to crawl, 
 But got herself caught in a cord, that in 
 
 front of the breach had been hung; 
 Ever tighter was getting the loop, and there 
 
 she her life would have lost, 
 Had not, at the opportune time, a vagrant 
 
 been passing along. 
 In anguish to him she cried out: Have 
 
 pity and help me get free, 230 
 
 I entreat! To this the man said: Released, 
 
 I will see that you are. 
 For your misery causes me grief; but first 
 
 you must give me your word. 
 No mischief on me to inflict. The serpent 
 
 agreed to his terms. 
 And swore the most solemn of oaths that 
 
 she, in no manner or way, 
 Would harm to her rescuer do, and thus 
 
 did the man set her free. 
 
CANTO IX. 259 
 
 Awhile on together they walked; but the 
 
 serpent was feeling, at length, 
 The gnawings of hunger, and flew at the 
 
 man, with intent him to choke 
 And devour; and in fear and alarm the 
 
 poor fellow sprang from her side. 
 Is this my reward? This have I deserved? 
 
 Jie cried, and did you 
 Not swear the most sacred of oaths? The 
 
 serpent then said in reply: 240 
 
 My hunger impels me, alas ! I have no 
 
 control of myself; 
 No law does necessity know; it constitutes 
 
 right of itself. 
 
 In turn then responded the man : Keep off 
 
 from me only so long 
 As we to some people may come, who us 
 
 will impartially judge. 
 And thereupon answered the worm : Till 
 
 then I will patience preserve. 
 
 Thus further a distance they went, and 
 over the water they found 
 
26o REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Cutpurse, the raven, along with his son, 
 
 who Croker was called; 
 And the serpent invited them both to draw 
 
 near, and thus them invoked : 
 Come here, we have something to say. 
 
 The raven them soberly heard, 
 And judgment at once he pronounced, the 
 
 man to ingest. Thus he hoped 250 
 A morsel to get for himself. Much pleased 
 
 was the serpent at this; 
 Lo! now I have triumphed, she said, and 
 
 none can the blame lay on me. 
 Not so, then responded the man, my case 
 
 is not utterly lost; 
 Shall a robber pass sentence of death, or 
 
 one judge alone try the case? 
 I demand that it further be heard, as equity 
 
 me doth allow ; 
 By four, or by ten if you please, let the 
 
 matter be brought to be heard. 
 
 The serpent then said: Let us go. They 
 went, and were met, on the road. 
 
CANTO IX. 26 I 
 
 By the wolf and the bear, and together 
 
 they all of them walked. 
 The peasant now everything feared; for him 
 
 in the midst of the five 
 It dangerous was to remain, seeing what 
 
 kind of fellows they were. 260 
 
 The serpent, the ravens, the wolf, and the 
 
 bear hemmed him in all around; 
 And anxious enough he became, for soon 
 
 did the wolf and the bear 
 Make up both together their minds, in this 
 
 way their judgment to give : 
 The serpent might slaughter the man, as a 
 
 ravenous craving for food 
 Acknowledged no maxim or law; one's 
 
 needs would absolve from an oath. 
 Now fear and concern on the traveller 
 
 seized, for they all in accord 
 Were after his life. Then the serpent flew 
 
 out with a furious hiss. 
 Spitting upon him her spleen, and in terror 
 
 he sprang to one side. 
 Great wrong, he exclaimed, you commit; 
 
 who you has seen fit to assign. 
 
262 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 As master and lord of my life? You heard 
 
 what was said, she replied, 270 
 
 Decided the judges have twice, and as often 
 
 your case you have lost. 
 To her then responded the man: They 
 
 plunder and pilfer, themselves; 
 I acknowledge them not in the least, the 
 
 case we will take to the king; 
 When he speaks, I'll submit to his words, 
 
 and if I the loser come out, 
 In bad enough plight shall I be; I will 
 
 it, however, endure. 
 The wolf and the bear then mockingly 
 
 said : This plan you can try ; 
 The serpent will certainly win, and better 
 
 can she nothing wish. 
 They thought that the lords of the court, in 
 
 session, would surely decide 
 As had they; and they went in good cheer, 
 
 the peasant escorting along. 
 Before you they came, the serpent, the 
 
 ravens, the wolf, and the bear; 280 
 
 Yea, a triplet of wolves was disclosed, for 
 
 two of his children he brought; 
 
CANTO IX. 263 
 
 AUbelly was one of them called, and Glutton 
 
 the other. These two 
 Most trouble occasioned the man ; for with 
 
 the intent had they come 
 Their own proper share to consume, for 
 
 ever rapacious they are. 
 With rudeness unbearable then, before you 
 
 they bellowed and howled, 
 Until you expelled from the court both of 
 
 the ill-mannered churls. 
 Then the man to your mercy appealed, and 
 
 proceeded his tale to relate: 
 How to kill him the serpent had thought; 
 
 and how she his generous act 
 Had forgotten, and broken her oath ; so 
 
 safety he sought at your hands. 
 And the snake contradicted him not: My 
 
 hunger's omnipotent need, 290 
 
 Which knows not the meaning of law, 
 
 irresistibly me did compel. 
 
 Good lord, you were greatly perplexed; the 
 matter in hand to you seemed 
 
264 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 To the brim with suspicion to be, and judi- 
 cially hard to decide; 
 For to you very harsh it appeared, the 
 
 kind-hearted man to condemn, 
 Who himself had beneficent shown; on the 
 
 other hand still, you bethought 
 Of the mischievous hunger as well; you 
 
 therefore the council convoked. 
 Alas! the opinion of most the claim of the 
 
 man was against. 
 For they had an eye to the feast, and 
 
 thought they the serpent would help. 
 But heralds to Reynard you sent, for all 
 
 of the others, indeed. 
 Uttered more words than enough, yet the 
 
 case could not rightly resolve. 300 
 
 Reynard came and the evidence heard; to 
 
 him the decision you left; 
 As he on the matter should rule, even so 
 
 should the law be enforced. 
 
 Reynard, with prudence, then said: It need- 
 ful I find, before all, 
 
CANTO IX. 265 
 
 Myself to betake to the place, that the 
 
 snake in her bonds I may see, 
 Just as the peasant her found; after that, 
 
 my decision I'll give. 
 The serpent was bound then afresh in the 
 
 self-same position and way 
 As across her the peasant had come, when 
 
 her in the hedge he had found. 
 
 When this had been done, Reynard said: 
 Here now we find each of the two 
 
 In former condition again, not either has 
 won or has lost; 
 
 Yet the right is made perfectly plain, as 
 seems it to me, of itself; 310 
 
 For, provided the man shall see fit, he now 
 can the serpent once more 
 
 Release from her place in the cord; if not, 
 he can there let her hang; 
 
 He free and with honor can go, his busi- 
 ness to seek and transact. 
 
 Since she so untrue has become, when his 
 kindness she deigned to accept. 
 
266 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The man has now fairly the choice; to me 
 
 that appears the intent 
 Of the law; who it better conceives, may 
 
 now let us hear what it is. 
 
 The verdict was pleasing to you, and all of 
 
 your council as well; 
 Reynard was eulogised much ; you were 
 
 thanked by the peasant; and all 
 ■The wisdom of Reynard extolled; the queen 
 
 also praised him herself. 
 Much talk there was made at the time, how 
 
 formerly you had, in war, 320 
 
 Both Bruin and Isengrim used ; and how, far 
 
 and wide, they were feared, 
 For always were they to be found where 
 
 plenty there was to devour. 
 Burly and daring and strong, none could 
 
 deny that they were. 
 Yet often in counsel was felt the lack of 
 
 some much needed sense, 
 For they are accustomed too much on phy- 
 sical force to rely. 
 
CANTO IX. 267 
 
 When work in the field is approached, 
 
 much lameness and halting there is. 
 Bolder can one not appear, than show they 
 
 themselves when at home; 
 Outside they are ready in ambush to lie; 
 
 but, if once are exchanged 
 Sturdy blows, they then will be found neither 
 
 better nor worse than the next. 
 The bears and the wolves destroy the 
 
 whole land, and little they care 330 
 
 Whose house is consumed by the flames. 
 
 They ever accustom themselves 
 To go and get warm at the coals, and 
 
 pity for none do they feel, 
 If only their maws they can fill. The eggs 
 
 they all swallow themselves. 
 And leave but the shells to the poor, and 
 
 think such division is fair. 
 On the other hand Reynard, the fox, and 
 
 all of his race comprehend 
 What wisdom and counsel imply; and, if 
 
 now he has done something wrong. 
 Gracious lord, yet is he no stick. Be sure 
 
 that no other will you 
 
268 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Ever give any better , advice. For this, 
 grant him pardon, I beg. 
 
 To this then responded the king: Upon it 
 
 I'll think. The decree 
 Was given as you have described; the 
 
 serpent the penalty paid. . . 340 
 
 Yet remains he a scamp, every inch, without 
 
 any chance to reform. 
 If a compact with him should be made, 
 
 deception at last will result. 
 For in proving that black is but white, 
 
 who is there can match him in skill? 
 The wolf and the bear and the cat, the 
 
 rabbit and even the crow, 
 Are not for him agile enough, he brings 
 
 them to shame and disgrace; 
 From this one he snatches an ear, from 
 
 another he tears out an eye, 
 And» a third he deprives of his life. I 
 
 certainly cannot conceive 
 How you can thus favor the scamp, and 
 
 speak in defence of his acts. 
 
CANTO IX. 269 
 
 Gracious lord, then responded the ape, it 
 
 impossible is to deny- 
 That his race is exalted and great. There- 
 on it is well to reflect. 350 
 
 Then up rose the king to go out, and all 
 
 of those who were there, 
 In a body awaiting him stood. In the 
 
 circle thus formed he observed 
 A number to Reynard most closely allied 
 
 who all had arrived 
 Their kinsman to shield and protect; so 
 
 many to name would be hard. 
 And he the great family saw ; he then, on 
 
 the other side, saw 
 The enemies Reynard had made ; divided it 
 
 seemed was the court. 
 
 In this way the monarch began : Give ear 
 
 to me, Reynard! Can you 
 An excuse for such wickedness find, as, with 
 
 Bellyn's assistance, to put 
 
270 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 My innocent Lampen to death and, in your 
 
 audacity, too, 
 His head in the wallet to thrust, as if to 
 
 me letters you sent? 360 
 
 To mock me that deed you performed; I 
 
 have punished already the one. 
 The penalty Bellyn has paid, and you may 
 
 the same now expect. 
 
 Ah, me! answered Reynard thereto; oh, 
 would that I also were dead! 
 
 Pray hearken to me, and then you can do 
 as the case may demand. 
 
 If guilty, then slay me at once; I shall 
 never, however, get free 
 
 From my burden of grief and distress; for- 
 lorn I must always remain. 
 
 For Bellyn the traitor's purloined the choic- 
 est of treasures from me, 
 
 The equal of which never yet has mortal 
 his eyes set upon. 
 
 Ah, life to poor Lampen they've cost! 
 These treasures I had to them both 
 
CANTO IX. 271 
 
 Committed in charge; now Bellyn has stolen 
 
 the costly effects. 370 
 
 But let them yet further be sought; how- 
 ever, I very much fear 
 
 That none will e'er find them again; they'll 
 rest for eternity lost. 
 
 To this did the monkey reply: Why give 
 
 you thus way to despair? 
 Be they but on top of the ground, to 
 
 recover them yet there is hope; 
 Both early and late will we go, and of 
 
 laymen and clerics with zeal 
 Will enquire. But first let us know, of 
 
 what did the treasures consist? 
 
 Reynard said: So precious they were, that 
 ne'er can we find them again. 
 
 Who possesses them now will guard them 
 with care. How much at the loss 
 
 Will my wife, dame Ermelyn, grieve ! She 
 will never forgive me for this, 
 
2/2 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 For me she tried hard to dissuade from 
 
 entrusting such riches to them. 380 
 
 Now lies are against me trumped up, and 
 
 I am most basely accused; * 
 
 But still I my rights will defend, and the 
 
 issue await; and if then 
 Acquitted I am, I will travel about through 
 
 kingdoms and lands, 
 And endeavor the treasures to find, even 
 
 though it shall cost me my life. 384 
 
CANTO X. 273 
 
 CANTO TEN 
 
 My king, furthermore said the fox, that 
 
 villain so crafty in speech, 
 Permit me, illustrious prince, in the ears of 
 
 my friends to relate 
 What comprised all the sumptuous things 
 
 that I had transmitted to you; 
 Though them you may not have received, 
 
 yet laudable was my intent. 
 Go ahead then, responded the king, and 
 
 whatever you say, make it short. 
 
 Well-being and honor are lost! And every- 
 thing now you shall learn. 
 
 Said Reynard, with sadness of tone. The 
 first of the beautiful gems 
 
 Was a ring, which to Bellyn I gave, and 
 he should the same to the king 
 
 Have brought and surrendered from me. 
 In a most unaccountable way 
 
 This ring was designed and composed, and 
 worthy it was in the wealth 10 
 
274 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Of my sovereign's treasure to shine, being 
 made of the finest of gold. 
 
 On the innermost side of this gem, that 
 next to the finger would be, 
 
 Were letters engraved to be seen, enamelled 
 in blue and in black; 
 
 Three Hebrew cognomens they formed, of 
 significance special and great; 
 
 And none in this land could explain what 
 meaning lay hidden therein; 
 
 Master Abrion only, of Treves, could deci- 
 pher the symbols for me. 
 
 Now he is an erudite Jew, and every lan- 
 guage and tongue 
 
 He knows, that is spoken by man from 
 Liineberg unto Poitou ; 
 
 And is also especially skilled in the virtues 
 of herbs and of stones. 
 
 When placed I before him the ring, he said 
 that most precious of things 20 
 
 Were hidden within its embrace; that the 
 names, which therein were engraved. 
 
CANTO X. 275 
 
 Were carried by Seth, the devout, from 
 
 Paradise down to the earth, 
 When the oil of compassion he sought; and 
 
 who on his finger it wears, 
 Finds free from all dangers himself; not 
 
 thunder nor lightning nor all 
 The mage's enchantments can hurt, while 
 
 this on his person he keeps. 
 And further the master observed that, at 
 
 some time or other, he'd read 
 That who kept on his finger the ring, could 
 
 not, in the fiercest of cold, 
 Be frozen to death, but would certainly live 
 
 to a peaceful old age. 
 Outside it a gem had been set, a carbuncle 
 
 brilliant and clear, 
 Which glistened so brightly at night, that 
 
 things could be seen as by day. 30 
 
 Many virtues belonged to this stone; all 
 
 kinds of diseases it healed ; 
 Who came into contact therewith, was 
 
 exempt from all want and distress; 
 Death was the only thing it had not the 
 
 power to subdue. 
 
276 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Still further the master disclosed the magni- 
 ficent gifts of the stone ; 
 
 Its owner in safety can go throughout all 
 the lands of the earth ; 
 
 Neither water nor fire can him hurt ; im- 
 prisoned, or even betrayed, 
 
 He never can be, and from all the assaults 
 of a foe he escapes. 
 
 If, fasting, he looks on the stone, in battle 
 he certainly will 
 
 A hundred and more overcome ; by the 
 potency too of the stone. 
 
 Is the action of poisons annulled, and 
 malignant secretions as well. 40 
 
 So also it hatred destroys; how many soever 
 there be. 
 
 Who do its possessor not love, they shortly 
 a change undergo. 
 
 But who could enumerate all the virtues 
 
 and powers of the stone. 
 That I found in my father's reserve, and 
 
 I, to my master, the king. 
 
CANTO X. 277 
 
 Now thought in all safety to send? For 
 
 of such a magnificent ring 
 I worthy was not ; I knew it right well ; it 
 
 ought to belong, 
 I thought, to the one who, of right, is held 
 
 as the noblest of all. 
 On him, and none other, depend our welfare 
 
 and property both ; 
 And I cherished the hope that his life I 
 
 might from all evil protect. 
 
 Moreover was Bellyn, the ram, in addition 
 
 thereto, to the queen, 50 
 
 A mirror and comb to present, to keep in 
 
 remembrance of me. 
 These both had I once, out of sport, from 
 
 my father's collection removed, 
 And not on the face of the earth could a 
 
 work of art finer be found. 
 How oft has endeavored my wife them both 
 
 to obtain for herself! 
 For nothing so much did she long, of all 
 
 that there is in the world ; 
 
278 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And about them contentions we had, but 
 
 my purpose she never could change. 
 At length both the mirror and comb, with 
 
 best of intention, I sent 
 To my gracious lady, the queen, who 
 
 always and ever to me 
 The utmost of favor has shown, and 
 
 shielded from harm of all kinds. 
 She often has spoken for me a mild and 
 
 benevolent word ; 60 
 
 She is noble, exalted in birth, by virtue 
 
 enrobed and adorned. 
 And her ancient descent is proclainfed by 
 
 actions as well as by words. 
 She was worthy the mirror and comb, on 
 
 which, to my sorrow and shame, 
 She has not been allowed to set eyes. For 
 
 ever, alas, they are lost! 
 
 Now to say a few words of the comb: 
 The artist, this comb to construct. 
 
 Had the bones of a panther employed, a 
 glorious creature's remains. 
 
CANTO X. 279 
 
 Whose place of abode is the land from 
 Paradise unto the Ind. 
 
 All species of colors are shown in its skin, 
 and the sweetest of scents 
 
 Are thence' given out, wherever it turns; 
 and thus do the beasts 
 
 Instinctively follow its tracks, wherever it 
 be that it goes; 70 
 
 For healthy they grow from this scent and, 
 without an exception, they all 
 
 Are imbued with a knowledge of this. Of 
 sinews and bones such as these 
 
 Was the beautiful comb, that I sent, con- 
 structed with wonderful skill ; 
 
 Like silver in whiteness and ' gleam, of 
 ineffable purity too ; 
 
 And better, by far, was its scent than cin- 
 namon even and cloves. 
 
 •When the animal passes from life, the aroma 
 goes into its bones, 
 
 Remains everlastingly there, and always them 
 keeps from decay ; 
 
 It drives all distempers away, and against 
 all the poisons is proof. 
 
ZSO REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Again, on the back of the comb could 
 
 excellent pictures be seeii, 
 Quite high in relief, with delicate tendrils of 
 
 gold interlaced, 80 
 
 And lazuli, azure and gules. In the middle- 
 most part of the field 
 Was the story insculptured with art, how 
 
 Priam's son, Paris of Troy, 
 Was sitting one day at a brook, and three 
 
 women, seraphic and fair, 
 Before him he saw, who Pallas and Juno 
 
 and Venus were called. 
 In strife they had long been engaged, for 
 
 each of them wished to possess 
 An apple that, up to this time, conjointly 
 
 to them had belonged. 
 At length an agreement was made, that 
 
 Paris this apple of' gold 
 Should on the most lovely bestow, and she 
 
 should alone it retain. 
 
 The youth regarded them all with the 
 greatest attention and care. 
 
CANTO X. 281 
 
 Now Juno remarked: If the apple I get, 
 
 and if me you adjudge 90 
 
 The fairest to be, you the richest of all in 
 
 the world shall become. 
 And Minerva rejoined: Deliberate well, and 
 
 the apple give me ; 
 Then you the most potent of men shall 
 
 become, and dreaded by all 
 Wherever your name may be known, alike 
 
 by your friends and your foes. 
 Venus spake: What want you with power? 
 
 And riches, what good will they do? 
 Are you not the ransomed one's son? And 
 
 as to your brothers, are they. 
 Hector and all of the rest, not wealthy and 
 
 strong in the land? 
 Is Troy not secured by its hosts, and I 
 
 also may ask if you have 
 Not conquered the land round about, as well 
 
 as more far away folk? 
 If me you the fairest pronounce, and the 
 
 apple confer upon me, 100 
 
 You then shall have cause to rejoice in a 
 
 treasure the greatest on earth. 
 
282 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 This prize is an excellent wife, of women 
 
 the fairest of all, 
 So virtuous, noble, and wise, that none can 
 
 too highly her praise. 
 Give the apple to me, and you shall the 
 
 wife of the king of the Greeks, 
 The beautiful Helen I mean, that treasure 
 
 of treasures, possess. 
 
 Then gave he the apple to her, and 
 adjudged her the fairest of all. 
 
 And she aided him, in return, to elope with 
 the beautiful queen, 
 
 The great Menelaus's wife, whom he had 
 in Troy for his own. 
 
 This story was seen in relief, in the mid- 
 dlemost part of the field; 
 
 And all round about it were shields, with 
 writings insculptured with art; no 
 
 And only had one them to read, the gist 
 of the fable to know. 
 
 Of the mirror I further will speak; in 
 lieu of a surface of glass. 
 
CANTO X. 283 
 
 A reflector of beryl was used, of wonderful 
 
 beauty and sheen ; 
 All things thereupon were revealed, even 
 
 though a mile off they occurred. 
 Were it either by day or by night. And 
 
 if, in one's face, there should be 
 A blemish, whatever it was, if naught but a 
 
 fleck in the eye, 
 Should one in the mirror but look, from 
 
 that very instant there fled 
 Imperfections away of all kinds, and every 
 
 extrinsic defect. 
 Can you marvel that I am sore grieved at 
 
 having the mirror thus lost? 
 For setting" the plate was employed the 
 
 costliest wood to be found, 120 
 
 Which shittim is called, so named from its 
 
 solid and glittering growth; 
 It is never infected by worms, and also, in 
 
 justice, it is 
 More highly regarded than gold, with ebony 
 
 only as next. 
 There once out of this was contrived, by an 
 
 artist of skill and renown, 
 
284 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 In the time of Krompardus the king, a 
 
 horse of remarkable powers, 
 Which its rider, in less than an hour, conM 
 
 take for a hundred good miles. 
 I find it impossible now to tell all there is 
 
 to be told. 
 For not such a steed has been known, so 
 
 long as the world has endured. 
 
 For the space of a foot and a half, entirely 
 
 around, was the frame, 
 Of the mirror embellished with work, all 
 
 carved in the best style of art; 130 
 
 And in letters of gold could be seen, under 
 
 each of the pictures inscribed. 
 The meaning and purport thereof; and I 
 
 will these stories to you 
 Concisely relate. The first was regarding 
 
 the envious horse. 
 Who thought that he would, for a bet, 
 
 compete in a run with a stag. 
 But was left far behind in the race, which 
 
 gave him inordinate pain ; 
 
CANTO X. 285 
 
 And a speedy occasion he took with a 
 
 shepherd about it to talk. 
 He said: It shall profit you much, if me 
 
 you will quickly obey; 
 If you mount, I will give you a ride; there 
 
 has, but a short time ago, 
 A stag hid himself in the wood, and him 
 
 you shall surely obtain ; 
 His flesh and his antlers and skin you can 
 
 sell at a very high price ; 1 40 
 
 Get up, and we will him pursue. All 
 
 right! I am ready to go, 
 Said the rustic, and sprang on his back. 
 
 They galloped away from the place, 
 And shortly got sight of the stag; then 
 
 followed they on at full speed 
 In his track, and gave him pursuit. But 
 
 the stag was the lighter of foot, 
 And the pace was too much for the horse, 
 
 who finally said to the man : 
 Get down for a while, I am tired, and greatly 
 
 have need of some rest. 
 No thank you, responded the man, you now 
 
 will have me to obey. 
 
286 REYNARD THE FOX-. 
 
 And my spur you shall feel in your flank, 
 
 for me you invited yourself 
 To get on your back for a ride ; and thus 
 
 him the rider subdued. 
 Lo! thus with much ill is repaid the one 
 
 who doth others design 150 
 
 To lead into harm ; himself he but loads 
 
 with evil and pain. 
 
 I now will still further explain what yet 
 
 on the mirror was shown ; 
 How together an ass and a dog into 
 
 service with Dives had gone. 
 The dog had, without any doubt, the pet of 
 
 his master become. 
 For he sat at his table at meals, and par- 
 took of the food that was served ; 
 And was also permitted to snuggle and rest 
 
 in his guardian's lap, 
 Who him was accustomed to feed with the 
 
 finest of bread ; in return. 
 The dog was incessantly licking his master, 
 
 and wagging his tail. 
 
CANTO X. 287 
 
 Now Baldwin observed the good luck of 
 
 the dog and, grieving at heart, 
 The donkey then said to himself: Oh, 
 
 why does my master incline 160 
 
 That indolent creature to treat in a way so 
 
 excessively kind ? 
 Upon him the animal springs and licks him 
 
 all over his beard, 
 While I must the labor perform, and to 
 
 carry the sacks am compelled. 
 Just let him make trial but once, and see 
 
 if, with five or with ten 
 Dogs, as much in a year he can do, as I 
 
 can get done in a month. 
 Yet the best is provided for him, while I 
 
 have to feed upon straw. 
 And on the hard ground must repose; and,' 
 
 wherever it be that they drive 
 Me or ride, I am scoffed at and mocked. 
 
 I can, and I will, such abuse 
 No longer endure ; my master's affection I 
 
 too will acquire. 
 
2 88 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Now just as he ended this speech, his 
 master appeared in the street. 170 
 
 The donkey erected his tail and kicked up 
 his heels; with a spring 
 
 At his master he leaped, braying and sing- 
 ing and blaring with might ; 
 
 Licked his beard and displayed a desire, in 
 the manner and way of a dog. 
 
 To nestle up close to his cheeks, and 
 bruised him somewhat with his kicks. 
 
 In terror his master ran off, and cried : 
 Oh, catch me the ass! 
 
 Strike him dead ! His servants then came, 
 and thickly upon him fell blows. 
 
 Him into his stable they drove, and there 
 he a donkey remains. 
 
 There many are still to be met, of the 
 selfsame assinine breed. 
 
 Who the welfare of others begrudge, with- 
 out doing good to themselves. 
 
 However, should any such one to a state of 
 great riches attain, 180 
 
CANTO X. 289 
 
 At once he resembles a pig, who should try 
 
 to eat soup with a spoon; 
 Not very much better, in truth. The 
 
 donkey let carry the sacks. 
 Have nothing but straw for his bed, and 
 
 find among thistles his food. 
 If one shall him otherwise treat, he will 
 
 still ever be as of old. 
 When an ass to dominion attains, it can 
 
 meet with but little success ; 
 His welfare he seeks to advance, and what 
 
 beyond this does he care? 
 
 My king, there is more you should know, 
 
 and at the recital I beg 
 That you take not offence; on the frame 
 
 of the mirror could also be seen, 
 Well fashioned and clearly described, how 
 
 my father did, once on a time. 
 Himself with our Tybert engage upon some 
 
 adventures to go; 190 
 
 And how they both sacredly swore that, in 
 
 all kinds of danger, they would 
 
ago REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 One another with valor support, and all of 
 
 their booty divide. 
 As forward they went on their way, they 
 
 noticed some hunters and hounds. 
 Not very far off from the road; and Tybert, 
 
 the cat, then remarked: 
 Good counsel seems costly to get! To 
 
 this did my pater respond: 
 Though odd it may very well seem, yet 
 
 with excellent counsel have I 
 My pocket already made full; and we must 
 
 remember our oath, 
 Together to steadfastly hold ; of all, most 
 
 important is that. 
 On the other hand, Tybert replied : However 
 
 the thing may turn out, 
 There remains yet a means to me known, 
 
 and that I intend to employ. 200 
 
 And thus up a tree he with liveliness 
 
 sprang, in order to save 
 Himself from the rage of the dogs; and 
 
 thus he his uncle forsook. 
 In terror my father stood there, and the 
 
 hunters were coming apace. 
 
CANTO X. 291 
 
 Quoth Tybert: Now, uncle, how goes it 
 
 with you? Throw open the sack. 
 Of counsel it's full, make use of it now, 
 
 for Aur time has arrived. 
 The huntsmen sounded their horns, and one 
 
 to another they called; 
 My father then ran, so also the hounds; 
 
 they followed with yelps. 
 And he sweated all over with fear, enriching 
 
 the ground as he went. 
 He thus was relieved of some weight, and 
 
 so he escaped from his foes. 
 
 Most basely, as you have just heard, 
 
 deceived him his nearest of kin, 210 
 
 The one whom he trusted the most. His 
 
 life in great jeopardy was, 
 For the dogs were swifter than he ; and, 
 
 had he not quickly bethought 
 Himself of a hole that he knew, he certainly 
 
 would have been killed; 
 But he slipped himself nimbly within, and 
 
 thus to his foes he was lost. 
 
292 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Many more of such fellows there are, as 
 Tybert was then, to his shame. 
 
 To my father so clearly revealed ; how 
 could I him honor and love? p- , 
 
 I have it half pardoned indeed, yet some- 
 thing still rankles behind. 
 
 This all on the mirror was carved, with 
 ~ pictures and writings thereon. 
 
 In addition to this was displayed an accu- 
 rate scene of the wolf; 
 Showing what kind of return for favors he's 
 
 ready to give. 220 
 
 He found in a meadow a horse, nothing of 
 
 which but the bones 
 Had been left; but ahungered he was, and 
 
 greedily nibbled at these; 
 Till a pointed one stuck in his throat, and 
 
 askew in his gullet got fixed. 
 A deplorable figure he cut; for him it had 
 
 badly turned out. 
 Runner on runner he sent, th^ surgeons to 
 
 call to his aid ; 
 
CANTO X. 293 
 
 But no one could give him relief, notwith- 
 standing gigantic rewards 
 
 He offered to all who should try. The 
 crane, in the end, was announced, 
 
 With the red-colored cap on his head, and 
 him did the sick one implore: 
 
 Oh, doctor, relieve me at once of the fear- 
 ful distress I am in ; 
 
 If the bone you pull out of my throat, I 
 will give you whatever you wish. 230 
 
 So trusted the crane in his words, that he 
 
 pluckily stuck in his beak. 
 With his head, in the jaws of the wolf, and 
 
 pulled out the bone. 
 Oh, dear! howled the wolf, how you hurt! 
 
 you are doing me damage, I know. 
 Let it not happen again! For the present, 
 
 I will it forgive. 
 Had it been any other than you, I would 
 
 it not patiently bear. 
 Be tranquil, responded the crane, for now 
 
 you again are quite well; 
 
294 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Give me the fee that I've earned; to you 
 
 I have been of great help. 
 Now hark to the fool, said the wolf, 'tis I 
 
 who have suffered the harm. 
 Yet he makes a claim for reward, forgetting 
 
 the favor that I, 
 This instant, have granted to him. Have I 
 
 not his noddle and beak, 240 
 
 Just now that I had in my mouth, released 
 
 without doing him harm? 
 Has the hoyden not given me pain? I had 
 
 very good reason indeed, 
 If reward is our subject of talk, to demand 
 
 it myself in advance. 
 Thus knaves are accustomed to deal with 
 
 those who them faithfully serve. 
 
 All graven with excellent skill, these stories, 
 
 with others, adorned 
 The frame of the mirror all round, with 
 
 many an ornament carved, 
 And many inscriptions in gold. Of the 
 
 priceless jewel, myself 
 
CANTO X. 295 
 
 As unworthy I thought, too ignoble I am, 
 
 and it therefore I sent 
 To my sovereign lady, the queen. I was 
 
 hopeful, by means such as this, 
 To her and her consort, the king, myself 
 
 reverential to show. 250 
 
 My children were very much grieved, those 
 
 two little well-mannered boys. 
 When gave I the mirror away; to jump 
 
 and to play they were used. 
 In front of the glass, where liked they to 
 
 look at themselves and their tails. 
 Hanging below from their backs, and laughed 
 
 at their own little mouths. 
 Of the trustworthy Lampen, alas!- I little 
 
 expected the death. 
 When I unto Bellyn and him the treasure, 
 
 in fullness of faith, 
 Without reservation consigned, for as honest 
 
 I looked on them both ; 
 No better or worthier friends did I think 
 
 that I ever could have. 
 Let us woe on the murderer call ! I've made 
 
 up my mind to find out 
 
296 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Who has the treasures concealed; no slayer 
 shall hidden remain. . 260 
 
 More than one in this circle, perhaps, is 
 able to give us the name 
 
 Of the spot where these riches were put, 
 and tell us how Lampen was slain. 
 
 My beneficent king, I'm aware that daily 
 
 before you are brought 
 So many important affairs, that -you cannot 
 
 remember them all. 
 Yet, haply, you still bear in mind the emi- 
 nent service which he, 
 My father, once rendered to yours, in the 
 
 place where at present I speak ; 
 Your father lay sick unto death, and mine 
 
 his life managed to save; 
 And yet you here freely assert that neither 
 
 my father nor I 
 To you any good ever did. Be pleased me 
 
 still further to hear; 
 And permit me, I beg, to relate how 
 
 always, at your father's court, 270 
 
CANTO X. 297 
 
 Mine was at all times received with honor 
 
 and dignity great, 
 As a worthy physician of skill. The patient's 
 
 condition he. knew, 
 With cleverness, how to inspect ; and nature 
 
 could always assist ; 
 And whatever was wroiig, with eyes or 
 
 aught else, he was able to heal. 
 Well knew of emetics the gifts, and more- 
 over did well understand 
 All matters concerning the teeth, and the 
 
 aching extracted with ease. 
 I gladly imagine it's gone from your mind; 
 
 that would cause no surprise. 
 As you then were but three years of age. 
 
 To his bed was your father confined, 
 In winter, in exquisite pain, nigh greater 
 
 than he could endure ; 
 And he of himself could not move. Then 
 
 all the physicians he had 280 
 
 Convoked between Rome and this place ; 
 
 and they, with unanimous voice. 
 Had given him up as past aid. My father 
 
 was summoned at last. 
 
*' If health you desire to regain, determine, without loss of time, 
 From ofB a wolf's liver to dine." 
 
CANTO X. 299 
 
 You dare not refuse it to do, for your life 
 
 is concerned in the act, 
 The glass contains nothing but blood, so 
 
 make up your mind with despatch. 
 
 With those round about was the wolf, 
 
 whom this did no pleasure afford. 
 Your father now spoke in this wise: You 
 
 all have heard what is required ! 
 Now listen, sir Wolf! That I may get 
 
 well, you will not, I am sure. 
 Your liver refuse to give up. To him then 
 
 responded the wolf : 
 Not yet am I five years of age; what good 
 
 will my liver effect? 300 
 
 Sheer nonsense, my father replied, we will 
 
 not be obstructed by that; 
 I soon by your liver can tell. The wolf 
 
 was commanded to take 
 His place in the kitchen below, and useful 
 
 his liver was found. 
 Your father devoured it forthwith and, as 
 
 soon as he swallowed it down, 
 
300 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Relieved from his sickness he was, and all 
 
 other ailments as well. 
 My father profusely he thanked, and all at 
 
 the court were compelled 
 Him as Doctor henceforth to address, and 
 
 none should it ever forget. 
 
 My father was constantly now at the right 
 
 of the king to be found. 
 To him did your father present, as I most 
 
 reliably know. 
 Very shortly, a locket of gold, and also a 
 
 crimson barette, 310 
 
 To wear before all of the lords; and thus, 
 
 from that time until now. 
 Have all held him high in esteem. With 
 
 his son, however, have things 
 Assumed an unfortunate change ; his father's 
 
 great virtues and gifts 
 In remembrance no longer are held. The 
 
 most avaricious of knaves 
 Are advanced, and all thought is bestowed 
 
 on advantage and gain ; 
 
CANTO X. 301 
 
 Wisdom and justice are pushed to the rear, 
 
 and our servants become 
 Our most arrogant lords, while the poor, as 
 
 a rule, must suffer for this. 
 If such gets dominion and power, he strikes 
 
 out blindly, all round. 
 Among all the people he rules, and his 
 
 birth he completely forgets; 
 His profit he seeks to extract from every 
 
 game that is played. 320 
 
 Among the exalted we see not a few such 
 
 as those I've described ; 
 To entreaty they never give ear, if donations 
 
 are not to be found • 
 
 Profusely connected therewith ; and, if they 
 
 the people instruct, 
 It means only pay, no matter the number 
 
 of times, you must pay. 
 
 These covetous wolves ever seek the daintiest 
 
 morsels to keep 
 For themselves; and, had they the means, 
 
 with even the smallest of loss, 
 
302 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The life of their master to save, about it 
 
 they scruples would have. 
 His liver the wolf would not yield, not e'en 
 
 to do good to the king! 
 A liver, indeed! I say it right out! 
 
 Twenty wolves, of a truth, 
 Should be ready to sacrifice life, that the 
 
 king and our idolized queen 330 
 
 Possession of theirs might retain ; much 
 
 smaller the damage would be. 
 If a seed be of potency void, what good 
 
 can therefrom be derived? 
 The things that occurred in your youth, 
 
 yoii cannot retrace in your mind; 
 But I can remember them well, as though 
 
 they of yesterday were 
 On the mirror the story was told, just as 
 
 my father desired ; 
 The work was embellished with gems, and 
 
 garnished with tendrils of gold. 
 If I could the mirror but find, I would 
 
 hazard possessions and life. 
 
CANTO X. 303 
 
 Reynard, the monarch observed, I have well 
 
 comprehended your speech, 
 Have listened to every word of the stories 
 
 that you have rehearsed. 
 So great were your father at court, and had 
 
 he so many, forsooth, 340 
 
 Commendable actions performed, that still 
 
 was in years long ago. 
 I remember them not in the least, and no 
 
 one has told me thereof; 
 Whereas the transactions of yours are con- 
 stantly brought to my ears; 
 You are ever at some kind of game, at 
 
 least so I hear it affirmed. 
 If injustice is done you in this, and all are 
 
 but fabulous yarns. 
 Some good I for once would fain learn ; 
 
 not often to happen this seems. 
 
 My lord, answered Reynard thereto, I now 
 
 shall make bold, about this. 
 To explain myself fully to you; for the 
 
 matter me closely concerns. 
 
304 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Good service to you I have done ; think 
 
 not, I implore you, that I 
 This cast in your teeth ! God forbid ! I 
 
 know that in duty I'm bound 350 
 
 To obey you so far as I can. One story, 
 
 at least, you have hot 
 Let utterly slip from your mind: how, with 
 
 Isengrim, I, by good luck, 
 A grunter had once hunted down ; it squealed, 
 
 and we bit it to death; 
 You came, making bitter complaint, and said 
 
 that your consort as well 
 Was coming, a short way behind ; if some 
 
 one would only divide 
 With you a small portion of food, of help 
 
 it would be to you both. 
 Give us whereof you have caught, was the 
 
 claim that you made of us then. 
 And Isengrim said, indeed, yes; yet mut- 
 tered he under his beard. 
 So that one could him scarce understand. 
 
 But I, on the contrary, said: 
 My lord, I would grudge you it not, though 
 
 herds of swine were concerned. 360 
 
CANTO X. 305 
 
 Say, who is the one to divide? The wolf, 
 
 you responded again. 
 Now Isengrim greatly rejoiced, and according 
 
 to habit, he shared 
 Without any shyness or shame, and gave 
 
 but a quarter to you. 
 And your consort a piece of like size, while 
 
 he set to work on the half. 
 This greedily swallowed he down and, out- 
 side the two skinny ears. 
 He offered me nought but the snout and 
 
 just about half of the lights; 
 He kept all the rest for himself, and all 
 
 the transaction you saw. 
 Little chivalry showed he us there; my 
 
 king, you know it quite well! 
 Your portion you quickly devoured, yet I 
 
 noticed, however, that you 
 Had your hunger not fully assuaged; though 
 
 Isengrim would it not see, 370 
 
 But his gnawing and chewing kept up, and 
 
 offered you nothing at all. 
 But then you inflicted a blow so hard with 
 
 your claws on his ears, 
 
306 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 That some of his hide was torn ofif; and 
 
 then, with his bloody bald pate, 
 He ran from the place with bumps on his 
 
 head, and howled with the pain. 
 And you to the cormorant called: Come 
 
 back, and learn to be shamed ! 
 When next you divide, deal better with 
 
 me, or I'll know what it means. 
 Now make yourself off with all speed, and 
 
 bring something further to eat. 
 Sire, order you that? I replied, then fol- 
 low him will I at once. 
 And I know that I something can fetch; 
 
 and you were contented with this. 
 Most doltishly then did Isengrim act; he 
 
 bled and he groaned 380 
 
 And murmured to me; yet urged I him on, 
 
 and together we chased 
 And caught a young calf, you are fond of 
 
 the food, and when we it brought, 
 It proved to be fat; at it heartily laughing, 
 
 you said in my praise 
 Full many an affable word; I should be, 
 
 you imagined, first-rate 
 
CANTO X. 307 
 
 To send out at the time of one's need, and 
 
 likewise, still further you said: 
 Apportion the calf! Then quoth I: One 
 
 half is already your own. 
 And a half belongs to the queen; what 
 
 inside the carcase is found. 
 As heart, and liver, and lights, belongs, as 
 
 in reason it should, 
 To your children; the feet I will take, 
 
 which to nibble I very much like; 
 And the head may be kept by the wolf, the 
 
 savory meat that it is. 390 
 
 The gist of these words having got, you 
 answered: Who, pray, has you taught 
 
 To allot in so courtly a way? That, I 
 should like to find out. 
 
 I answered: My teacher is near; this scamp, 
 with the red-colored head, 
 
 And bloody bald pate, has himself the intel- 
 ligence opened to me. 
 
 I exactly observed what he did, when the 
 porker this morning he carved; 
 
308 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Then learnt I the meaning to seize, of such 
 
 a division as that; 
 Veal or pork matters not, I shall now find 
 
 it easy and make no mistake. 
 
 With shame and disgrace were the wolf 
 
 and his greed overwhelmed. 
 Of his like are enough to be found! They 
 
 swallow the plentiful fruits 
 Of all the estates in the land, as well as 
 
 the vassals thereof. 400 
 
 All, indeed, that is good they destroy, and 
 
 not the least spark of remorse 
 Can any one ever expect, and woe to the 
 
 land where they dwell. 
 
 Take notice, my master and king, thus oft 
 
 you in honor I've held. 
 All I at this moment possess, or may in 
 
 the future obtain, 
 I gladly devote to your use, and that of 
 
 your consort, the queen; 
 
CANTO X. 309 
 
 Be it little or ever so much, the most of 
 
 it all you shall take. 
 If you think of the calf and the pig, you 
 
 will see, without shadow of doubt. 
 Where faithful allegiance resides. Would 
 
 Isengrim, any way, dare 
 With Reynard to measure himself? But 
 
 still, to our sorrow, the wolf 
 As chief of your stewards is held, and 
 
 harasses every one. 410 
 
 Not much for your profit cares he; but 
 
 well he knows how the whole way, 
 In promoting his own, to proceed. Thus 
 
 now he with Bruin, indeed. 
 Has your majesty'? ear, and what Reynard 
 
 may say is but little esteemed. 
 
 My liege, it is true that I'm under a cloud, 
 
 but I will not give way, 
 For through with it now I must go; and 
 
 therefore permit me to say: 
 If any one thinks he has proofs, let him 
 
 now with his witnesses come. 
 
3IO REYNARD TI|E FOX. 
 
 Himself to the subject confine, and judicially 
 
 pledge, on a bond, 
 His goods, or his ear, or his life, in case 
 
 it may be that he lose; 
 And I will pledge mine against his. Thus 
 
 has it been valid in law. 
 From time out of mind ; thus let it be 
 
 now, and the whole of the case, 420 
 As argued both for and against, in just 
 
 such a manner can be. 
 In honor, conducted and judged. This now 
 
 I make bold to demand. 
 
 However it be, responded the king, from 
 justice's path 
 
 I can, and I will, not detract; that is some- 
 thing I've never endured. 
 
 Of a truth, the suspicion is strong, that 
 particeps criminis you 
 
 In the murder of Lampen became, that 
 messenger faithful whom I 
 
 So much loved, and whose loss I deplore; 
 grieved beyond measure I was 
 
CANTO X. 311 
 
 When drawn was his blood-covered head 
 from the wallet I'd given to you ; 
 
 Bellyn atoned on the spot, that wicked 
 attendant and base ; 
 
 You now may, however, the case still fur- 
 ther defend at the bar. 430 
 
 In what I myself am concerned, I Reynard 
 all freely forgive ; 
 
 For he firmly has stood at my side in 
 many a critical case. 
 
 Has any one further complaint, we are 
 ready to hear what it is; 
 
 Let him trustworthy witnesses bring, and 
 prosecute all of his claims 
 
 Against Reynard in order and form; here, 
 awaiting your charges, he stands. 
 
 Most gracious my lord! Reynard said, I 
 give you my heartiest thanks. 
 
 To each you give ear and dispense the 
 benefits all of the law. 
 
 Let me now with solemnity say, with what 
 a disconsolate heart 
 
312 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 I Bellyn and Lampen dismissed; I had a 
 
 foreboding, I think, 
 Of what was to happen to both; with 
 
 tenderness loved I them well. 440 
 
 Thus Reynard's narration and words were 
 
 garnished with skill so adroit, 
 That all were enforced to believe; he the 
 
 treasures so neatly described, 
 And conducted so gravely himself, that 
 
 truth to be speaking he seemed; 
 And to comfort him even they tried. And 
 
 thus he deluded the king. 
 Who much with the riches was pleased, and 
 
 gladly would them have possessed. 
 To Reynard he said: Be content, you 
 
 shall go on a journey and try. 
 Far and wide, to discover the lost, so all 
 
 that is possible do. 
 If need you may have of my help, it will 
 
 at your service be found. 
 
CANTO X. 313 
 
 Said Reynard in answer to this: Your 
 
 goodness I gratefully feel; 
 These words are a comfort to me, and rea- 
 son they give me to hope. 450 
 To punish foul murder and theft is the 
 
 highest of rights you possess. 
 The matter to me is obscure, yet clear as 
 
 the day shall become. 
 With care will I after it look, and travel 
 
 by day and by night. 
 Without any thought of repose, and question 
 
 all people I see. 
 If I learn where the goods can be found, 
 
 and them am not able again 
 To get in my hands, for lack of due 
 
 strength, for aid I shall ask, 
 Which you to me then will vouchsafe, and 
 
 the matter will surely succeed. 
 If the treasures to you I safely restore, I 
 
 ■shall find at the last 
 My trouble requited in full, and my loyalty 
 
 proved beyond doubt. 
 
314 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The king with enjoyment this heard; and, 
 
 without reservation, he gave 460 
 
 Assent to what Reynard had said, who had 
 
 woven his lies with such art 
 That the rest all believed him as well; he 
 
 now had permission, once more. 
 To go and to come he as pleased, and that 
 
 without question or check. 
 
 Lost Isengrim now all control of himself, 
 
 and, gnashing his teeth, 
 He said : Gracious lord, you mean thus 
 
 again to put trust in the thief, 
 Who you two and threefold befooled? Who 
 
 can help being struck with surprise? 
 See you not that the scamp you deceives, 
 
 and damage to all of us does? ' 
 He never gives voice to the truth, and 
 
 nothing devises but lies. 
 But I, with such ease, will not let him 
 
 off! You ought to know well 
 That he is a rascal and false. I know of 
 
 three capital crimes 470 
 
CANTO X. 315 
 
 Committed by him; get off shall he not, 
 
 even though we must fight. 
 We are witnesses told to produce, what 
 
 good would it do if we did? 
 If they came and their evidence gave, for 
 
 the sitting entire of the court, 
 Would that be of any effect? He still 
 
 would do just as he pleased. 
 Very oft can no witness be had, ought the 
 
 scallawag then to go on 
 Committing his crimes as before? Who 
 
 would venture to go on the stand? 
 Some stigma he fastens on each, and each 
 
 from such injury shrinks; 
 You and yours it experience too, and in 
 
 the same boat are we all. 
 Today I will keep him in hand, he 
 
 neither shall waver nor skulk; 
 But shall answer to me for his deeds, so 
 
 now let him be on his guard. 480 
 
3l6 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 CANTO ELEVEN 
 
 His charges brought Isengrim forth, and said: 
 
 Pray attend while I speak! 
 Reynard, most gracious of kings, the villain 
 
 that ever he was. 
 Remains to the present unchanged; on 
 
 infamous things he dilates. 
 My kindred and me to disgrace; and thus 
 
 has he ever for me. 
 And even more still for my wife, caused 
 
 nigh unendurable shame. 
 He tempted her, once on a time, to wade 
 
 through a marsh to a pond, 
 By making her firmly believe that, every 
 
 day she was there. 
 Great numbers of fish she could catch. If 
 
 she in the water should put 
 Her tail, and allow it to hang, then sure 
 
 would the fish be to bite 
 So well that, if four of them tried, not all 
 
 to be got could they eat. lo 
 
 She went upon this on her way, and found 
 
 herself swimming, at last, 
 
CANTO XI. 317 
 
 Toward the sluice-end of the pond, where 
 
 deeper the water was massed, 
 And there he induced her to let her tail 
 
 in the water hang down. 
 The cold towards eve was intense, and 
 
 to freeze so hard it began, 
 That longer she scarce could hold out; and 
 
 thus, very shortly, her tail 
 Had frozen become in the ice, so fast that 
 
 she could not it raise; 
 And heavy, she thought, were the fish, that 
 
 she had thus managed to catch. 
 Reynard, the dastardly thief, observed this, 
 
 and then what he did 
 I can trust not myself to disclose; he had 
 
 her, alas, at his will. 
 He shall not escape from us now ! His 
 
 villainous conduct shall cost 20 
 
 One of us two, as you'll see, his life before 
 
 close of the day. 
 This time shall his tongue not prevail; I 
 
 caught him, indeed, in the act. 
 As I was, by accident, led to the top 
 
 of a hillock near by. 
 
3l8 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 I heard her call loudly for help, the poor 
 
 cheated thing that she was; 
 Fast in the ice she was caught, and 
 
 him was not able to check; 
 And I, coming there, was compelled the 
 
 whole of his doings to see ; 
 In truth, an amazement it is that my heart 
 
 was not broken thereat. 
 Reynard, I cried in dismay, what, in God's 
 
 name, are you at? 
 He heard me and fled on his way. I came 
 
 with a sorrowful heart, 
 Was driven to shiver and wade in the cold, 
 
 frozen water, and could 30 
 
 The ice but with trouble break up, in order 
 
 my wife to release. 
 Alas! we prospered not well; she tugged 
 
 with the whole of her might. 
 And a quarter, at least, of her tail remained 
 
 firmly held by the ice. 
 Long and aloud she bemoaned; the peasants, 
 
 at hearing the noise, 
 Rushed forward and came on our track, and 
 • one to another they called. 
 
CANTO XI. 319 
 
 They hotly ran over the dam, with axes and 
 
 pikes in their hands; 
 With distaff the women came too, all making 
 
 a terrible din ; 
 Catch them, they all of them cried, and 
 
 give them a taste of your clubs. 
 I never had felt so affrighted as then, and 
 
 the same was confessed 
 By Greedimund too ; we found it hard work 
 
 to get off with our lives, 40 
 
 By running till skin fairly smoked. Then 
 
 rushing along came a scamp, 
 A devilish fellow he was, and armed with 
 
 a long, wicked pike, 
 And light on his feet, who after us 
 
 stabbed, and pressed us quite hard. 
 If night had not come to our aid, out lives 
 
 we had certainly lost. 
 The women still kept up their cry, the 
 
 vixenish beldams, that we 
 Some of their sheep had devoured. Fain 
 
 had they added their blows 
 To the horrible insults they cast ; our foot- 
 steps, however, we turned 
 
320 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 From land to the water again; and, quick 
 
 as the lightning, we slipped 
 Back into the rushes at hand, where dared 
 
 not the clowns to pursue ; 
 For now it quite dark had become, so back 
 
 they returned to their homes. 50 
 
 We hardly escaped as it was. You see, 
 
 gracious king, in this case, 
 Treason and murder and rape; of infamous 
 
 crimes such as these 
 The question is now, and these you will 
 
 punish severely, my king. 
 
 When the king this arraignment had heard, 
 he said: A case such as this 
 
 Shall be by us righteously judged; let Rey- 
 nard thereover be heard. 
 
 Reynard spake: If it were as described, 
 then certainly would the affair • 
 
 Not much to my honor redound ; but God, 
 in his mercy, forbid 
 
 That facts should be found as set forth ; I 
 will not, however, deny 
 
CANTO XI. 321 
 
 That fish I have taught her to catch, and 
 
 also have showed her the path 
 That best to the pond would conduct, and 
 
 her to the water would take ; 60 
 
 But on she so greedily ran, so soon as I 
 
 spoke of the fish. 
 That both moderation and road, and instruc- 
 tion as well, she forgot. 
 If she in the ice was held fast, then had 
 
 she, without any doubt, 
 Been sitting too long at her post, for if 
 
 she had pulled in good time, 
 Enough she of fish would have caught to 
 
 serve for a dainty repast. 
 Desire in too high a degree is always 
 
 malign. When the heart 
 To dissatisfaction inclines, it always must 
 
 miss very much. 
 Who harbors the spirit of greed, has life 
 
 with anxiety filled, 
 For no one can give him enough. This 
 
 lesson dame Greedimund learned, 
 When frozen she got in the ice. Poor 
 
 thanks for my trouble she gives; 70 
 
322 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 But this consolation I have, that help her 
 
 I honestly did, 
 And pushed with the whole of my strength,. 
 
 in trying her safely to lift. 
 But she was too heavy a weight; and, 
 
 while I was doing my best, 
 Isengrim chanced to draw near, in walking 
 
 along by the shore. 
 There, standing above, he called out and, 
 
 horribly cursing, came down. 
 Yes, I was in truth much alarmed, his 
 
 beautiful blessings to hear; 
 Not once, but e'en twice and three times, 
 
 his terrible curses he flung 
 At me there; and to scream he began, 
 
 urged on by a fury so wild, 
 That I thought: You had better be off, 
 
 and not any longer wait here; 
 Far better to fly than be flayed. The nail 
 
 on its head I had hit, 80 
 
 For he would me to pieces have torn. 
 
 Whenever two dogs shall begin 
 To fight with themselves for a bone, with 
 
 absolute certainty must 
 
CANTO XI. 323 
 
 The one or the other it lose. Thus seemed 
 
 it to me for the best 
 To scamper away from his wrath and utter 
 
 confusion of mind. 
 That ferocious he was and remains, how 
 
 can he deny? Only ask 
 Of his wife; for I will have nothing to say 
 
 to a liar like him. 
 So soon as he fastened his eyes on his 
 
 wife, frozen fast in the ice, 
 He viciously swore and reviled, and came 
 
 and assisted her out. 
 If the peasants made after them then, it 
 
 certainly was for their good. 
 For thus got in motion their blood, and 
 
 cold they no longer could feel. 90 
 
 Now what is there further to say? It 
 
 mean and contemptible is 
 For him to dishonor his wife with lies such 
 
 as these which he tells. 
 Herself you can ask, she is here; and, if 
 
 what he says is the truth,. 
 Would surely not fail to complain. Mean- 
 while I beg humbly to ask 
 
324 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 That the case he continued a week, in order 
 
 my friends to consult, 
 As to what kind of answer is due to the 
 
 wolf and this charge that he brings. 
 
 Greedimund thereupon said: In all of your 
 
 actions and thoughts 
 Can nothing be found, as we know, but 
 
 roguery, falsehood, and fraud. 
 Villainy, intrigue, and spite. Who your 
 
 cavilling words shall believe 
 Will surely be damaged at last; you always 
 
 take care to employ lOO 
 
 Confused and inconsequent words. I found 
 
 it like this at the well. 
 Two buckets were hanging therein ; in one 
 
 you had stationed yourself, 
 For what I have never found out, and down 
 
 to the bottom had gone ; 
 And, finding unable yourself to get again 
 
 back to the top, 
 You blackened the air with your groans. 
 
 By morning I came to the well. 
 
CANTO XI. 325 
 
 And asked : Who put you down there ? 
 You answered : You just in the nick 
 
 Of time, dear gossip, have come ! I yield 
 to you all of my gains; 
 
 Get into the bucket up there and down 
 you will come, and may eat 
 
 Down here all the fish you can want. At 
 an ill-fated moment I went, 
 
 For you I believed, when you said you had 
 eaten such numbers of fish, 1 10 
 
 That a pain in your belly you had. I suf- 
 fered myself to be fooled. 
 
 And stupidly got in the pail, which quickly 
 began to go down. 
 
 While the other began to go up, till oppo- 
 site me you arrived. 
 
 To me it quite wonderful seemed, and I, 
 in perplexity, asked : 
 
 How chanced it to come about thus? In 
 answer to me you replied : 
 
 Up and down, so it goes in the world, and 
 so goes it now with us two; 
 
 The course of things ever is thus, while 
 some must abasement endure. 
 
326 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Are others exalted in turn, in accord with 
 the virtues of each. 
 
 Then out of the bucket you jumped and, 
 fast as you could, ran away. 
 
 But, grieving, I sat in the well, and all 
 the day long was compelled 120 
 
 Therein to abide; and blows without num- 
 ber, at eve, to endure. 
 
 Before I made good my escape. Some 
 peasants then came to the well. 
 
 And spied me down there in the pail, as 
 I, with grim hunger annoyed. 
 
 Was sitting in sorrow and fear, and feeling 
 completely undone. 
 
 The peasants among themselves said : Now 
 see! Down below in the pail 
 
 Is sitting, at present, the foe that lessens 
 our number of sheep. 
 
 Haul him up, then one of them cried ; my- 
 self I in readiness hold 
 
 To greet him up here at the edge, and he 
 for our lambs shall now pay. 
 
 But the kind of a greeting I got! That 
 pitiful was, for there fell 
 
CANTO XI. 327 
 
 Blow after blow on my hide. Not once, in 
 the whole of my life, 130 
 
 Had I a more sorrowful day, and scarce 
 came I off with my life. 
 
 In answer to this, Reynard said: The sequel 
 
 more closely regard. 
 And you will assuredly find how healthful 
 
 that whipping has been ; 
 Although, with respect to myself, I prefer 
 
 to dispense with the like. 
 As then was the state of the case, was one 
 
 or the other compelled 
 To burden himself with the blqws, for both 
 
 of us could not escape. 
 It will aid you to bear this in mind; for 
 
 then, in a similar case. 
 You none will so easily trust. The world 
 
 is brim full of deceit. 
 
 Indeed, retorted the wolf, what evidence 
 more do we need? 
 
328 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 No one has damaged me more than this 
 
 rascally, treacherous scamp. 140 
 
 One matter not yet have I told: how he, 
 
 out in Saxony once, 
 In the midst of the tribe of the apes, me 
 
 led into shame and disgrace. 
 He there, on some pretext, induced me into 
 
 a pit to descend, 
 Knowing quite well in advance that mischief 
 
 on me it would bring. 
 If I had not quickly run off, my sight and 
 
 my hearing would there 
 Have been lost. Before I went in he had 
 
 said, with plausible words, 
 His aunt I should find in the place, mean- 
 ing by that the she-ape. 
 It irked him to see me escape, for he sent 
 
 me, with malice prepense, 
 Down into that horrible nest; I thought I 
 
 had got into hell. 
 
 Said Reynard in answer thereto, before all 
 the lords of the court: 150 
 
CANTO XI. 329 
 
 The wolf most distractedly talks, not quite 
 
 in his senses he seems; 
 If he of the ape would report, he plainly 
 
 should say what he means. 
 Two years and a half have gone by, since 
 
 into the Saxon confines 
 He led with carousal the way, and I thither 
 
 went in pursuit. 
 That is true; the rest is a" lie. An ape was 
 
 there not in the place. 
 He is talking about some baboons; and, 
 
 never at all, will I them 
 Acknowledge as kinsmen of mine. But 
 
 Martin the ape and his wife, 
 Dame Riickenau, relatives are; I both as 
 
 my cousins respect. 
 And of the connection am proud. The 
 
 life of a jurist he leads, 
 And knows the whole law like a book. 
 
 But as to those creatures of whom 160 
 Now Isengrim talks, he treats me with 
 
 scorn. With them, let me say, 
 I have nothing whatever to do, they never 
 
 were kinsmen of mine. 
 
330 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 They resemble the devil in hell, and if the 
 
 old lady I called 
 My aunt, at the time in dispute, I did it 
 
 with prudent intent; 
 And nothing thereby did I lose, this much 
 
 I will readily own ; 
 She treated me well as her guest; or else 
 
 might she well have been choked. 
 
 Behold you, my lords, we had gone a little 
 
 aside from the road. 
 And round to the back of a hill, where we 
 
 came on a cavernous pit. 
 Deep and gloomy and long. Now here, as 
 
 accustomed he is. 
 With hunger felt Isengrim ill. Whenever 
 
 has he, of a truth, 170 
 
 Been seen with his stomach so full, that he 
 
 has contented appeared? 
 And then, unto him I observed: Down 
 
 here, in this cave, may be found. 
 No doubt, food enough and to spare ; and, 
 
 doubtless, its inmates with us 
 
CANTO XI. 331 
 
 Will gladly divide what they have; we 
 come at an opportune time. 
 
 But Isengrim said in response: My uncle, I 
 much would prefer 
 
 To wait for you under this tree, for you 
 are, by far, the more apt 
 
 At making acquaintances new; and if food 
 be extended to you, 
 
 Let me be informed. The villain thus 
 thought that he would, at my risk, 
 
 The outcome await where he was. There- 
 upon I directed my steps 
 
 Down into the cavernous hole ; and, shudder- 
 ing, wandered I through 180 
 
 The lengthy and crooked approach, which 
 seemed as if never to end. 
 
 But that which I came upon then ! .Such 
 fright would I not undergo. 
 
 Twice in the course of my life, for a pile 
 of the ruddiest gold. 
 
 Such a nestful of horrible beasts, the 
 large intermixed with the small ! 
 
 The mother, indeed, of the brood I took for 
 the devil himself. 
 
332 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Capacious and broad was her mouth, with 
 
 its big and detestable teeth; 
 Big claws on her hands and her feet, with 
 
 long and most hideous tail 
 Set behind at the end of her back; a thing 
 
 so atrocious have I 
 Not seen, in the whole of my life. The 
 
 tawny, disgusting young cubs 
 Were all most remarkably formed, like noth- 
 ing but horrible spooks. 190 
 Upon me she grewsomely gazed; I wished 
 
 I was anywhere else. 
 She bigger than Isengrim was, and some of 
 
 her cubs were, indeed, 
 Her equal in stature almost. Imbedded in 
 
 festering hay, 
 I came on the sickening brood, all over and 
 
 over besmeared 
 With mire up as far as their ears; while 
 
 the stink that polluted the den 
 Was worse than the brimstone of hell. 
 
 To tell you the truth unadorned. 
 But little I liked it in there; for of them 
 
 such a number there was, 
 
CANTO XI. 333 
 
 While I was entirely alone; and dreadful 
 
 grimaces they made. 
 I gathered my scattering thoughts, and 
 
 sought for a way of retreat, 
 But greeted them well — though this was a 
 
 sham — and friendly behaved, 200 
 
 As if an acquaintance I was. As aunt I 
 
 the mother addressed. 
 And cousins the children I called, and bashful 
 
 was not in my speech. 
 May God in his mercy you spare to a long 
 
 and a prosperous life! 
 Are all these dear little ones yours? But 
 
 really, I need not have asked. 
 How pleasant to see them it is. Good 
 
 heavens ! how brim full of life. 
 And thoroughly handsome they are. For 
 
 sons of the king they would pass. 
 I give you, a thousand times, joy, that 
 
 you, with descendants of worth, 
 Thus are augmenting our race; I rejoice 
 
 beyond measure thereat. 
 I think myself now in good luck", to know 
 
 of such kinsmen as these ; 
 
334 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 In critical times it may be, that kindred 
 some help can supply. 210 
 
 When honor so great I bestowed, although 
 
 I in earnest was not, 
 She showed me, on her part, the same, and 
 
 me as her uncle addressed, 
 Aijd like a relation behaved; little indeed 
 
 as the crone 
 Is any connection of mine. Yet not for 
 
 this once could it do 
 Any harm to address her as aunt. Mean- 
 while, I was covered with sweat, 
 All over and over, through fright; and yet 
 
 she most affably said : 
 Reynard, dear kinsman and friend, most 
 
 heartily welcome you are; 
 I earnestly hope you are well. To you, my 
 
 whole life, I shall feel 
 Obliged for this visit of yours ; henceforth, 
 
 you can rational thoughts 
 To the minds of my children impart, that 
 
 they may to honor attain. 220 
 
CANTO XI. 335 
 
 Such was her manner of talk ; and this, in 
 
 a very few words, 
 By calling her aunt and sparing the truth, 
 
 I richly deserved. 
 I still had an earnest desire to get once 
 
 again to the air, 
 But allow me to go she would not, and 
 
 said: You, uncle, must not, 
 Without some refreshment, depart. Remain 
 
 till some food you have had. 
 And she brought me a plenty to eat; I 
 
 could not at present recall 
 The names of the dishes she set-, amazed to 
 
 the utmost I was 
 As to how she had come by it all. I 
 
 feasted on venison and fish 
 And other most relishing game ; the whole 
 
 of it just to my taste. 
 When all I could eat I had had, then for- 
 ward she furthermore brought 
 A hunk from a stag she had 
 wished me to carry it home. 
 For my wife and my children to 
 I took an affectionate leave. 
 
 
 230 
 
 got. 
 
 and 
 
 eat; 
 
 and 
 
336 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Reynard, she said once again, I hope you 
 
 will visit me oft. 
 I promised her all that she wished, and 
 
 managed to get from the place. 
 Inside so unpleasant it was, as well for the 
 
 eyes as the nose, 
 That I was near dying while there; tried 
 
 all I knew how to get out; 
 The passage ran nimbly along, till the open- 
 ing I reached at the tree, 
 And groaning found Isengrim there. How 
 
 are you, dear uncle? I said. 
 Quoth he : I am not at all well, with 
 
 hunger I soon shall be dead. 
 I him, out of sympathy, gave the delicate 
 
 coUop of roast, 240 
 
 That with me away I had brought. He 
 
 this "with voracity ate. 
 And thanked me again and again; but he 
 
 has forgotten it now. 
 When finished he was, he began : Now 
 
 let me know all about those. 
 Who make in the cavern their home. How 
 
 did you find things within? 
 
CANTO XI. 337 
 
 Good or bad? And I told him the truth, 
 
 and nought but the truth; 
 Exactly apprized him of all. The nest was 
 
 atrocious, but still. 
 Therein was much delicate food. So soon 
 
 as he felt a desire 
 His share of the same to receive, his 
 
 entrance he boldly could make ; 
 But he, above all, must avoid saying out 
 
 what exactly he thought. 
 If things you would have as you wish, be 
 
 careful to husband the truth! 250 
 
 I repeated it several times, for if it one 
 
 foolishly has. 
 For ever, at tip of the tongue, oppression 
 
 he everywhere finds ; 
 He stands, in all places, behind, and others 
 
 are called to the front. 
 In this way I bade him depart, and told 
 
 him, let happen what might, 
 That he must be careful to say what each 
 
 was desirous to hear. 
 And he then would be kindly received. 
 
 These were exactly the words. 
 
338 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Most noble monarch and lord, that conscience 
 
 impelled me to say. 
 But he just the contrary did; and, if he 
 
 got punished for that. 
 Then let him the punishment bear; he 
 
 should listen to what he is told. 
 In truth, are his shaggy locks gray, yet 
 
 wisdom beneath would be sought, 260 
 Without any chance of success. Such fellows 
 
 but little esteem 
 Good sense or ingenuous thoughts; the 
 
 worth of all wisdom is kept. 
 From gawky and blunt-witted folk, for ever 
 
 and always concealed. 
 I faithfully on him enjoined, this once to 
 
 be frugal of truth. 
 I know what is proper myself, he proudly 
 
 responded to that; 
 And trotted thus into the hole, and well 
 
 for his trouble got paid. 
 
 Behind sat the horrible wife, he] thought it 
 was Satan himself. 
 
CANTO XI. 339 
 
 That before him he saw. Moreover, the 
 
 cubs! Now, bewildered, he cried: 
 Oh, heavens! What horrible beasts! Are 
 
 these little wretches your whelps? 
 They have the appearance, indeed, of a 
 
 hellish young rabble of fiends; 270 
 
 To drown them would be the best thing, 
 
 so that the brood may itself 
 Not spread abroad over the earth. If 
 
 mine they should happen to be, 
 I would strangle them every one. With 
 
 them for a bait could be caught 
 Young devils, in numbers, with ease; in a 
 
 bog one would only require 
 To fasten them well to the reeds, the 
 
 odious, villainous brutes ; 
 Marsh-monkeys they ought to be called, the 
 
 name would exactly them fit. 
 
 With haste did the mother reply, and 
 
 uttered some violent words: 
 What demon has sent us this guest? Who 
 
 you has invited to come, 
 
340 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And greet us uncouthly like this? And 
 
 ■what with my children have you, 
 Good-looking or ugly, to do? Just now has 
 
 departed from us 280 
 
 That learned man, Reynard the fox, who 
 
 very well knows what he means; 
 And he did my children affirm, without 
 
 deviation, to be 
 Handsome, well-mannered, and good ; he was 
 
 perfectly ready and glad 
 To recognize them as of kin. Not more 
 
 than an hour has gone by 
 Since he, standing here in this place, us all 
 
 gave assurance of that. 
 If please you as him they do not, why 
 
 then I must tell you, in truth, 
 That no one has asked you to come. Pray, 
 
 understand, Isengrim, that. 
 
 At this he demanded of her, that dinner at 
 
 once she provide; 
 And said: Fetch it here, or I will it help 
 
 you to find, I desire 
 
CANTO XI. 341 
 
 No words any further to hear. And then 
 
 he attempted, by force, 290 
 
 To confiscate some of her stores; a thing 
 
 that was badly advised. 
 She threw herself on him forthwith, and 
 
 bit him and savagely scratched 
 His skin with her hideous nails, and vi- 
 ciously tore him and clawed. 
 Her children did also the same, they terribly 
 
 champed him and rent; 
 Then cried he blue murder and howled, his 
 
 cheeks covered over with blood; 
 Himself he tried not to defend, but ran with 
 
 quick strides to get out. 
 Wickedly bitten, I saw him emerge, all torn 
 
 and in tatters his skin ; 
 Split open was one of his ears, and blood 
 
 freely flowed from his nose ; 
 They'd nipped him with many a wound, and 
 
 also his pelt had contrived 
 To cram all together with filth. I asked, 
 
 as he trod from the place: 300 
 
 The truth have you spoken to her? And 
 
 thus he replied to my words: 
 
342 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 I said to her just what I thought, and 
 
 then did the wretched old shrew 
 Me badly disfigure and lame; I would I 
 
 could meet her outside, 
 She then should pay dear for it all. How, 
 
 Reynard, appears it to you? 
 Did you ever set eyes on such whelps? So 
 
 horribly filthy and vile? 
 No sooner I spoke, than it all came about; 
 
 and as I, in her eyes. 
 No more any favor could find, very badly 
 
 I fared in the hole. 
 
 Are you crazy? I answered thereto; I cau- 
 tioned you well against this. 
 
 I do you most heartily greet, is the proper 
 thing to have said. 
 
 Pray how, my dear aunt, do you do? I 
 would also ask after the health 310 
 
 Of those pretty children of yours. I am 
 glad both my little and big 
 
 Young cousins once more to behold. But 
 Isengrim said in reply: 
 
CANTO XI. 343 
 
 That -woman accost as my aunt? And 
 
 cousins, those hideous brats? 
 The devil may take the whole lot! Such 
 
 kinsmen a horror would be. 
 Oh, faugh! Such a damnable herd! I 
 
 never will see them again. 
 For this was he paid with such coin. Your 
 
 judgment now render, oh king! 
 With justice- can he now affirm that by me 
 
 he was tricked? Let him state 
 If the matter did not come about, as I have 
 
 this instant explained. 
 
 Then Isengrim firmly replied: We shall 
 
 not, I can readily see, 
 Determine this contest with words. From 
 
 chiding what good do we get? 320 
 
 Right is right, and wherever it dwells, 
 
 itself it will show in the end. 
 You, Reynard, now boldly step forth, if 
 
 you think its abode is with you. 
 We now with each other will fight, and 
 
 then we shall know where it is. 
 
344 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 So much you have found to report, as to 
 
 how, in the den of the apes. 
 The torments of hunger I bore, and you 
 
 me so faithfully fed; 
 Though how, I can't possibly think. It was 
 
 only a bit of a bone 
 That you brought ; most likely the meat you 
 
 had eaten already yourself. 
 You stand there and ridicule me, and boldly 
 
 you talk in a way 
 That closely my honor affects. And you, 
 
 with most scandalous lies, 
 On me a suspicion have cast, of having a 
 
 dastardly plot 330 
 
 To injure the king had in mind; and hav- 
 ing conceived the desire 
 Of putting an end to his life; no scruples, 
 
 however, have you 
 In bragging of treasures to him, which he 
 
 would be troubled to find. 
 You shamefully treated my wife, and that 
 
 you will have to atone. 
 These things I now lay at your door, with 
 
 a firm resolution to fight. 
 
CANTO XI. 345 
 
 Concerning the old and the new; and this 
 
 I say over: That you 
 Are a murderer, traitor, and thief; and 
 
 now, setting life against life, 
 We in combat will settle the thing, and 
 
 chiding and scolding will end. 
 I tender my gauntlet to you, as always 
 
 sufficient in law. 
 
 From every challenger, is. You may it 
 ■ 
 retain as a gage, 340 
 
 And soon can our meeting be had. Our 
 
 monarch my challenge has heard, 
 And all of his barons as well ; , and they, 
 
 I most earnestly hope, 
 This battle for right will attend. Not a 
 
 chance shall you have to escape. 
 Till the matter is finally closed; and then 
 
 we shall see what is what. 
 
 Reynard now thought to himself: At risk 
 
 are possessions and life! 
 He is big and but little am I, and this 
 
 time should matters with me, 
 
346 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 In any way, take a wrong turn, then all 
 
 my devices and tricks 
 Of but little avail will have been; yet let 
 
 us await the event. 
 I think some advantage I have; for lately 
 
 he lost his front paws. 
 If cooler the fool does not get, he surely 
 
 shall not, in the end, 350 
 
 His way in the matter obtain, let the cost 
 
 be whatever it may. 
 
 And then, Reynard said to the wolf: It 
 
 possible, Isengrim, is • 
 That you are a traitor to me; and all of 
 
 the sundry complaints. 
 You are thinking to bring against me, are 
 
 made up entirely of lies. 
 ' If combat you wish, I will risk if with 
 
 you, and never shall flinch. 
 I long such a thing have desired, and here 
 
 is my glove in exchange. 
 
 The monarch the pledges received, and both 
 did them boldly present. 
 
CANTO XI. 347 
 
 At the end of this function, he said: You 
 each must security give, 
 
 That tomorrow you fight without fail. Both 
 of the parties, I think, 
 
 Are sadly confused in their minds, I noth- 
 ing can make of their talk. 360 
 
 In an instant, as Isengrim's bail, came for- 
 ward the bear and the cat; 
 
 And then, upon Reynard's behalf, as vouch- 
 ers presented themselves 
 
 A son of old Martin, the ape, with Grim- 
 bart, the badger, conjoined. 
 
 At this, dame Riickenau said: You, Reynard, 
 
 must keep yourself calm. 
 You need all the senses you have. My 
 
 husband, who now is in Rome, 
 Your uncle, once taught me a prayer, the 
 
 subject of which was composed 
 By the abbot of Bolton himself; and he to 
 
 my consort it gave. 
 To whom he was kindly disposed, on a 
 
 small scrap of paper transcribed. 
 
348 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 This prayer, so the abbot maintained, has 
 
 very great virtue for those 
 About to engage in a fight; one, fasting, 
 
 must read it at morn, 370 
 
 And then shall one daily remain insured 
 
 against danger and want, 
 And fully exempted from death, as well as 
 
 from wounds and from pain. 
 Take comfort, my nephew in this: that I, 
 
 in the morning betimes. 
 Will it over you read, that hope you may 
 
 have, and freedom from fear. 
 Dear aunt, then responded the fox, I return 
 
 you my heartiest thanks; 
 I shall always be mindful of this. . Yet 
 
 help I must ever expect. 
 Most, from the right of my cause and the 
 "skill I can bring into play. 
 
 Together abode Reynard's friends the whole 
 
 of the night, and dispelled 
 His cares with hilarious talk. But anxious 
 
 dame Riickenau was, 
 
CANTO XI. 349 
 
 And busy with all he might need. With 
 
 alacrity had she him shorn, 380 
 
 From head to the tip of his tail, as well 
 
 as his belly and breast; 
 And covered with fat and with oil; and then 
 
 it was made to appear 
 That Reynard was fat and rotund, and very 
 
 well set on his legs. 
 Take heed, in addition she said, and con- 
 sider what you have to do. 
 Hark well to intelligent friends, for that 
 
 will avail you the most; 
 Drink well, and retain what you drink; and 
 
 to the arena be sure, 
 In the morning, as prudent, to come ; then 
 
 see that you moisten your brush 
 All over and over till soaked, and try your 
 
 opponent to hit. 
 If you manage his eyes to anoint, 'twill be 
 
 the best thing you can do, 
 For his sight will be clouded at once ; and 
 
 that will be useful to you, 390 
 
 While him it will greatly impede. At first 
 
 you must fearful appear. 
 
35° REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And at once, in the teeth of the wind, as 
 
 fast as you can, run away. 
 If he should give chase, then stir up the 
 
 dust, in order his eyes 
 To close with excretion and sand. Then 
 
 spring to one side, and yourself 
 Adapt to his every move ; and, while he is 
 
 wiping his eyes, 
 Improve the advantage obtained, and thor- 
 oughly sprinkle those eyes 
 With your aqua fortis again, till totally 
 
 blind he becomes, 
 And longer knows not where he is, then 
 
 yours shall the victory be. 
 Dear nephew, just sleep now a bit, and we 
 
 will you surely awake 
 When the requisite time has arrived. And 
 
 now I will over you read 400 
 
 The sanctified words I described, that braced 
 
 you may be by their aid. 
 Her hand on his head she imposed, and 
 
 recited the words that she had, 
 From Martin, her husband, received, as 
 
 stated above. Then she said: 
 
CANTO XI. 351 
 
 Good luck you attend! You now are 
 
 secure! The same were then said 
 By Grimbart, his uncle, as well; then led 
 
 they him off to his bed, 
 And he peaceably slept. At rise of the 
 
 sun, the otter arrived. 
 With the badger, their cousin to wake. 
 
 They gave him a friendly salute. 
 And told him himself to prepare. The otter 
 
 then brought to the room 
 A tender, delicious young duck and, handing 
 
 it to him, he said : 
 Pray eat; I have it for you, with many a 
 
 spring and a jump, 410 
 
 At the dam by Pimpernel, caught; I hope 
 
 it my cousin will please. 
 
 Good hansel is that, I declare, quite cheer- 
 fully Reynard replied, 
 
 A something not lightly to scorn. May God, 
 of his grace, you repay. 
 
 For thinking so kindly of me. Now him- 
 self up to eating he gave. 
 
352 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And drinking quite freely as well; and then, 
 
 with his kinsmen, he went 
 To the spot on the unwrinkled sand, where 
 
 they were intended to fight. 416 
 
CANTO XII. 353 
 
 CANTO TWELVE. 
 
 When eyes upon Reynard lie set, as now 
 
 in the ring he appeared, 
 With body clean shaven and smooth, and 
 
 over and over bedaubed 
 With oil and perfidious fat, with laughter 
 
 the king was convulsed. 
 You fox, who that has you taught? he 
 
 exclaimed. With justice, indeed. 
 You Reynard, the Fox, may be called; a 
 
 trickster incessant you are. 
 Some hole you in all places know, and how 
 
 to make use of it too. 
 
 Quite low Reynard bowed to the king, and 
 
 also especially low 
 To the queen, who sat by his side; then 
 
 came he, with spirited bounds. 
 Inside of the ring, where the wolf, with 
 
 numerous kinsmen and friends, 
 His appearance already had made, all 
 
 wishing defeat to the fox; lo 
 
354 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And many a choleric word, and many a 
 
 menace he heard. 
 But Lynx and Lupardus at length,' who 
 
 kept the arena, brought forth 
 The sacred mementos, on which now both 
 
 the contestants made oath. 
 The wolf and the fox, regarding the matter 
 
 which each would maintain. 
 
 Isengrim swore, with vehement words and 
 
 threatening looks. 
 That Reynard a traitor and thief, as well 
 
 as a murderer, was ; 
 Involved in all kinds of misdeeds; in rape 
 
 and adultery caught ; 
 In every matter was false ; and life against 
 
 life must be staked. 
 Then Reynard made oath, at once, in 
 
 return, that nothing he knew 
 Of one of these infamous crimes; as ever 
 
 did Isengrim lie, 20 
 
 And falsely, as usual, swore; but still he 
 
 would never succeed 
 
CANTO XII. 355 
 
 In passing his falsehoods for truth, at any 
 
 rate, now he would not. 
 As follows the stewards then spake: Let 
 
 each carry into effect 
 What now is incumbent on each, and soon 
 
 will the right be revealed. 
 The big and the little vacated the ring, 
 
 these two, by themselves. 
 Therein to confine. Then quickly to whisper 
 
 the she-ape began : 
 To what I have told you attend; forget not 
 
 my counsel to heed. 
 With cheerfulness, Reynard replied : The 
 
 good exhortation you gave. 
 More valorous makes me to feel. Rest 
 
 easy, for now I shall not 
 The tricks or the boldness forget, by which 
 
 I have managed to come 30 
 
 From many a peril more dire, into which 
 
 I have often been thrown. 
 When I this and that have acquired, for 
 
 which nothing yet has been paid, 
 And boldly my life has been risked. At 
 
 present then why should I not 
 
3S6 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Come forward the scoundrel to meet? I 
 
 certainly . hope to disgrace 
 Both him and his genus entire, and honor 
 
 to bring upon mine. 
 I him will serve out for his lies. At this, 
 
 they were both of them left 
 Together inside of the ring, and the others 
 
 looked eagerly on. 
 
 Isengrim wild and ferocious appeared; ex- 
 tending his claws. 
 Thenceforward he came with forcible springs 
 
 and jaws open wide. 
 But Reynard, more active than he, sprang 
 
 off from his furious foe, 40 
 
 And quickly his rough, shaggy tail with his 
 
 aqua fortis he soaked. 
 And whisked it about in the dust, in order 
 
 to fill it with sand. 
 Now, Isengrim thought, he is mine ; in a 
 
 moment the miscreant struck 
 Him over the eyes with his tail, when 
 
 vanished both hearing and sight. 
 
CANTO XII. 357 
 
 This trick was an old one of his; already 
 
 had many poor chaps 
 Given the virulent strength of his aqua 
 
 fortis a test. 
 He had blinded so Isengrim's cubs, as in 
 
 the beginning was told, 
 And now he their father would mark. 
 
 When he his antagonist's eyes 
 Had lathered like this with the stuff, he 
 
 sprang away sideways and put 
 Himself in the wind, then beat up the 
 
 sand, and much of the dust 50 
 
 Drove into the eyes of the wolf, who, 
 
 by whisking and rubbing it in 
 In his haste, did the worst he could do, 
 
 and greatly augmented his pain. 
 On the other hand Reynard contrived, with 
 
 acumen, his tail to employ; 
 He struck his opponent anew, and rendered 
 
 him thoroughly blind. 
 It wretchedly went with the wolf, for care 
 
 took . the fox to improve 
 The advantage he thus had obtained; and, 
 
 soon as he came to observe 
 
358 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The bedewed, smarting eyes of his foe, he 
 
 began, with impetuous bounds. 
 To assail him with powerful blows, and 
 
 bring into vigorous play 
 His nails as well as his teeth, and ever his 
 
 eyes to anoint. 
 Half crazed, the wolf scrambled about; then 
 
 him to make game of began 60 
 
 Reynard more boldly, and said: Sir Wolf, 
 
 you have oft, in the past. 
 Choked many an innocent lamb; and also, 
 
 in course of your life. 
 Gulped many immaculate beasts; I hope 
 
 they'll be able, henceforth. 
 The blessings of rest to enjoy; and that 
 
 you may, in any event. 
 Be willing to leave them in peace, and 
 
 take benediction for pay. 
 A penance like this will be good for your 
 
 soul, and strikingly so. 
 If calmly your end you await. This time, 
 
 rest assured, you will not 
 From me in escaping succeed; appease me 
 
 you must with your prayers; 
 
CANTO XII. 359 
 
 Then mercy extend you I will, and see 
 that your life is preserved. 
 
 Hastily Reynard said this, and had his 
 opponent, meanwhile, 70 
 
 Steadfastly seized by the throat, expecting 
 him thus to subdue; 
 
 But Isengrim, stronger than he, then sav- 
 agely roused himself up. 
 
 And tore himself suddenly free. Now 
 Reynard laid hold of his face, 
 
 Inflicted a terrible wound, and one of his 
 eyes he contrived 
 
 Adroitly to pluck from his head; and blood 
 ran below from his nose. 
 
 Reynard cried out : This pleases me well ! 
 This means my success! 
 
 The wolf to lose courage began ; his blood 
 and the loss of his eye 
 
 Him out of his mind nearly drove; forget- 
 ting his pain and his wounds, 
 
 Directly on Reynard he sprang, and forced 
 him below to the earth. 
 
360 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The fox now began to feel ill, and little 
 his wisdom availed, 80 
 
 For one of his foremost paws, which he 
 had made use of as hands, 
 
 Isengrim hurriedly seized, and held with his 
 teeth like a vice. 
 
 In pain Reynard lay on the ground, and 
 fear, at that instant, he felt 
 
 Of losing entirely his hand; and a thous- 
 and ideas conceived. 
 
 Then Isengrim bellowed these words, in 
 a deep and sepulchral voice : , 
 
 Your hour, you thief, has arrived! Sur- 
 render you now on the spot, 
 
 Or else you dead I will strike, for all of 
 your fraudulent deeds. 
 
 My debt to you now I will pay; to you 
 little help has it been. 
 
 The dust to stir up, your bladder to drain, 
 your hide to have shaved. 
 
 And body with grease to besmear. Woe 
 to you now! you have done 90 
 
CANTO XII. 361 
 
 Such evil to me with your lies, and ruined 
 
 the sight of my eye; 
 But now you shall not get away; surrender, 
 
 or else I will bite. 
 
 Thought Reynard at this: I am now in a 
 fix, and what can I do? 
 
 If give I not in, he puts me to death; and 
 if I give in. 
 
 Dishonor for ever is mine. This punish- 
 ment well I deserve. 
 
 For him I too badly have used, too grossly 
 offensive have been. 
 
 And then honeyed phrases he tried, in 
 order his foe to appease. 
 
 Dear uncle, to him he remarked, I shall, 
 with much pleasure, become 
 
 One of your vassals at once, with every- 
 thing I possess ; 
 
 And gladly will go as a pilgrim for you 
 to the sacred tomb, 100 
 
 To the Holy Land, into every church, and 
 bring you therefrom 
 
362 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Indulgences- plentiful back. The same will 
 
 undoubtedly tend 
 To the profit and good of your soul; and 
 
 over enough shall be left 
 For both of your parents, as well, that in 
 
 life everlasting they may 
 This benefit also enjoy; who does such 
 
 assistance not need ? 
 I honor you much as the pope; and now, 
 
 by the gods, do I swear 
 A sacred, inviolate oath, that from now till 
 
 futurity's end, 
 I will, with the whole of my kin, be ever 
 
 in bondage to you. 
 Without intermission we all at your service 
 
 will be. This I swear! 
 What I to the king would not. grant, is now 
 
 freely offered to you. 1 10 
 
 If you my proposal accept, one day shall 
 
 the kingdom be yours. 
 Then all I am able to catch will I order 
 
 to you to be brought, — 
 Geese and ducks and poultry and fish, — ere 
 
 I the least part 
 
CANTO XII. 363 
 
 Of any such food shall consume; to you 
 
 and your children and wife 
 Shall the pick of it always be left. I will, 
 
 in addition, with zeal, 
 Take care that your life is made safe, no 
 
 evil shall ever you touch. 
 I crafty am called, and you have the 
 
 strength, so together we can 
 Great deeds, I imagine, perform. If each 
 
 by the other we stand. 
 The one with his might, the other with 
 
 skill, who can us subdue? 
 If one with the other we fight, it only 
 
 vexation will bring. 120 
 
 This thing I should never have done, if I 
 
 but a decent excuse 
 Had known for refusing to fight; you 
 
 challenged, however, and I 
 Had nothing to do but accept, if only in 
 
 honor's behalf. 
 But courtly myself I have borne and, during 
 
 the course of the strife. 
 Not all of my strength have displayed; for 
 
 seemed it to me that it must 
 
364 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 To honor most fully redound, my uncle 
 
 forbearance to show. 
 If hatred to you I had borne, it otherwise 
 
 with you had gone. 
 Slight are the wounds you've received ; and 
 
 if, by unlucky mischance, 
 The use of your eye is impaired, for that I 
 
 am heartily grieved. 
 The best of the matter is this: that I a 
 
 restorative know, 130 
 
 And if it to you I impart, then thankful 
 
 to me you will feel. 
 Though even your eye should be gone, yet 
 
 well .if you otherwise get. 
 That always a comfort will be ; for, when 
 
 you lie down to your sleep, 
 One window alone you must close, while we 
 
 shall have double the care. 
 In order your anger to calm, my relatives 
 
 all, straight away. 
 Themselves shall before you prostrate; my 
 
 wife and my children, as well. 
 In the presence, at once, of the king, and in 
 
 this assemblage's sight. 
 
CANTO XII. 365 
 
 Shall make intercession for me, and beg that 
 
 you will me forgive, 
 And let me depart with my life. I then 
 
 will in public avow 
 That I have been telling untruths, and done 
 
 you much harm with ray lies, 140 
 
 Deceiving you all that I could. And further 
 
 I promise to swear, 
 That of you nothing evil I know, and will, 
 
 from the present time on. 
 Not injure you, even in thought. Now, how 
 
 could you ever deraand 
 Any greater atonement from me than what 
 
 I am ready to make? 
 If you put me to death, what get you by 
 
 that? There will always remain 
 My friends and relations to fear; and then, 
 
 beyond this, bear in mind 
 That, should you me spare, you will quit, 
 
 with glory and honor, the field, 
 And to all will seem noble and wise ; for 
 
 higher is capable none 
 Himself to exalt, than when he forgives. 
 
 A chance such as this 
 
366 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Will not again soon to you come. Take it 
 up! For the rest, it is now 150 
 
 The same altogether to me, whether I am 
 to live or to die. 
 
 Hypocrite ! answered the wolf, what pleasure 
 
 to you it would be. 
 If I should again set you free; but of gold 
 
 if the world were composed, 
 And it you should offer to me, now in the 
 
 hour of your need, 
 I would not again let you go. Thus oft 
 
 you have taken vain oaths, 
 Lying rascal, to me ! In truth, not the 
 
 shell of an egg should I get. 
 If I were to part with you now. Your 
 
 kinsmen not much do I reck ; 
 I am ready for all they can do, and think 
 
 it quite proper that I 
 Their enmity thus should acquire. Malevo- 
 lent rascal, how would 
 You not scoff, if you I let go oh these 
 
 protestations you make. 160 
 
CANTO XII. 367 
 
 Who you did not know would be duped. 
 
 You say you have spared me today, 
 You scurvy, detestable thief! And is there 
 
 not one of my eyes 
 Now hanging far out of my head? You 
 
 wretch, have you also my skin 
 Not damaged in places a score? The 
 
 chance should I ever have had 
 Again to recover my breath, if you the 
 
 advantage had gained ? 
 Most stupidly would it be done if I, for 
 
 this scandal and shame. 
 To you grace and pity now showed. You 
 
 traitor, on me and my wife 
 You harm and dishonor have brought, and 
 
 now you shall pay with your life. 
 
 As the wolf was addressing the fox, in 
 some way the rascal contrived 
 
 His paw that was free to ingraft between 
 his antagonist's thighs, 170 
 
 And clutch his most sensitive parts, inhu- 
 manly rending him there. 
 
368 REYNARD THE FOX . 
 
 But of this nothing more will I say, except 
 
 that the wolf now began 
 In a pitiful manner to cry and to howl, 
 
 with his mouth open wide. 
 Reynard now swiftly withdrew his paw 
 
 from the close pinching teeth ; 
 With both he held on to the wolf, with 
 
 ever more tightening grasp, 
 And pinched and grappled and pulled, till 
 
 cried the poor fellow so hard. 
 That blood he began to throw up. His pain 
 
 was so great that the sweat. 
 All over his body, broke out, and terror 
 
 now loosened his bowels. 
 The fox was delighted at this ; and, hoping 
 
 the contest to win. 
 Held on to him now with hands and with 
 
 teeth, till such awful distress, i8o 
 
 Such torture, came over the wolf, that he 
 
 gave himself over as lost. 
 The blood from his eye ran over his head, 
 
 and he fell in a swoon 
 To the ground. The fox, at this moment, 
 
 would not an abundance of gold. 
 
CANTO XII. 369 
 
 For a sight such as this, have exchanged; 
 
 and thus he continued to hold, 
 To drag, and to worry the wolf, that all 
 
 might behold his distress; 
 He pulled, he pinched, and he bit, and 
 
 clawed the poor impotent brute. 
 Till he with convulsions was seized, and in 
 
 his own filth and the dust, 
 He rolled with unearthly howls, in a truly 
 
 unmannerly way. 
 
 His friends now lamented aloud, and 
 
 proceeded the king to entreat 
 The combat to bring to an end, if so it 
 
 should please him to do. 190 
 
 The king thus replied to their prayer: So 
 
 soon as you all are agreed, 
 And it pleases you all that so it shall be, 
 
 then I am content. 
 
 The king then gave a command to the 
 keepers both of the ring, 
 
370 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Lupardus and Lynx, that they now to the 
 
 two belligerents go. 
 So within the arena they went, and to 
 
 Reynard, the victor, they said 
 That now it had gone far enough, and the 
 
 king had expressed a desire 
 The combat himself to assume, and the 
 
 quarrel see brought to an end. 
 He wishes that you, they went on, your 
 
 opponent surrender to him. 
 And now, to your overcome foe, be willing 
 
 his life to accord. 
 For if in this duel should one, by act of 
 
 the other, be killed, 200 
 
 Harm would on both sides be done. The 
 
 advantage you certainly have! 
 All, little and big, have it seen, and all 
 
 the best men of the state 
 Accord you support and applause. For ever 
 
 you've won them as friends. 
 
 Reynard, with feeling, then said : For this 
 I shall thankful be found! 
 
CANTO XII. 371 
 
 With pleasure I follow the will of the king, 
 
 and that which is fit 
 I gladly shall do; I have conquered, and no 
 
 greater honor than that 
 Can wish to achieve. But one thing I hope 
 
 the king will permit: 
 That counsel I take with my friends. Then 
 
 shouted aloud all the friends 
 Of Reynard, each one : It seems to us good 
 
 with the wish of the king. 
 At once, to comply; and running they came 
 
 to the victor in crowds; 210 
 
 His relatives all, the badger, the otter, the 
 
 beaver, the ape. 
 Now too could be classed the marten and 
 
 weasel as friends of the fox, 
 The ermine and squirrel as well, and many 
 
 who bore him ill-will, 
 And would not have uttered his name; they 
 
 all of them ran to him now. 
 There also appearance put in, those who 
 
 had charged him with crime. 
 As if now relations they were ; with wives 
 
 and with children they came. 
 
372 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 The big and the small and between, and 
 
 even their infants in arms. 
 They fondled and flattered him all, as if not 
 
 enough could they do. 
 
 It ever goes thus in the world. The fortu- 
 nate always are wished 
 
 Enjoyment of lasting good health, and 
 friends in abundance they find; 220 
 
 But he whom misfortune assails, in patience 
 his soul must possess. 
 
 Just so did it here come to pass; and, next 
 to the victor, was each 
 
 Himself fully ready to puff. Some played 
 on the flute and trombone ; 
 
 While others were singing with joy, or beat- 
 ing, at intervals, drums. 
 
 Said Reynard's adherents to him : Rejoice, 
 in that you have, today, 
 
 Exalted yourself and your race, by what you 
 have done in the ring; 
 
 Excessively troubled we felt, when it looked 
 as if you had succumbed; 
 
CANTO XII. 373 
 
 But the aspect was speedily changed, and 
 
 splendidly played was the piece. 
 Reynard remarked: I have won! and ten- 
 dered his thanks to his friends. 
 At this their departure they took, with 
 
 plenty of bustle and noise, 230 
 
 And Reynard in front of them all, by 
 
 both the ring stewards upheld, 
 Until they arrived at the throne, where 
 
 Reynard fell down on his knees. 
 The king bade him get on his feet, and 
 
 said, before all of his lords: 
 The day you have saved in good style ; 
 
 with glory and honor have you 
 This matter conducted all through, for 
 
 which I acquit you of guilt; 
 All penalties now are revoked, and about it 
 
 it I fully intend, 
 In my council of nobles, to speak, on the 
 
 very first day that again 
 Isengrim's health is restored; the matter is 
 
 closed for today. 
 
374 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Your advice, most gracious of lords, Rey- 
 nard discreetly replied, 
 
 Is good into practice to put; your knowl- 
 edge is best in the case. 240 
 
 When hither I came, so many complained; 
 they lied to the wolf. 
 
 My resolute foe to oblige, who thought he 
 would me overthrow, 
 
 And got me well-nigh in his power; then 
 also the others cried out: 
 
 To the cross ! and joined in complaint, in 
 order to compass my death; 
 
 And all to be pleasing to him, for clearly 
 it was to be seen, 
 
 That with you he stood better than I; and 
 none had the slightest idea 
 
 Of how it would end; nor where, perad- 
 venture, the truth might reside. 
 
 To yon dogs I compare them, indeed, the 
 which in great numbers were wont 
 
 In front of the kitchen to stand, in hope 
 that the goodnatured cook 
 
 Them would remember, perchance, with one 
 or two bones now and then. 250 
 
CANTO XII. 375 
 
 These wide-awake, open-mouthed dogs now 
 
 one of their fellows observed, 
 Who managed to steal from the cook a 
 
 portion of meat that was boiled, 
 And, haplessly, got not away sufficiently fast 
 
 from the place ; 
 For the cook, coming on him behind, hot 
 
 water upon him had thrown, 
 And badly had scalded his tail. Yet let he 
 
 his booty not fall. 
 But mingled himself with the rest, who one 
 
 to another remarked : 
 Just notice how him does the cook, above 
 
 all the others, befriend ; 
 And see what a precious tid-bit he him 
 
 gave! And then he replied: 
 You little the bearings perceive; you praise 
 
 and commend me in front. 
 Where possibly pleasure you get, by feasting 
 
 your eyes on the meat ; 260 
 
 But look at me now from behind; and, if 
 
 you me happy account. 
 You soon your opinion will change. They 
 
 fully examined him then. 
 
376 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 And found him so terribly burned, that fast 
 
 coming out was his hair, 
 And shrivelled was all of his skin. With 
 
 terror they all were now seized, 
 And went to the kitchen no more, but 
 
 bolted and left him alone. 
 My lord, it's the greedy I'm aiming at 
 
 here ; while mighty they are. 
 Quite ready and willing are all, to have 
 
 them as comrades and friends. 
 All hours of the day they are bearing off 
 
 meat in their mouths. 
 Who does not conform to their ways, will 
 
 for it to suffer be made. 
 Our praise they must always receive, how 
 
 badly soever they act, 270 
 
 And thus we encourage their criminal deeds. 
 
 In this way does each 
 Who does not reflect on his end. Such 
 
 fellows, however, become 
 Very frequently punished, indeed, and their 
 
 power has a sorrowful end. 
 No one will bear with them more; and 
 
 thus, to the right and the left, 
 
CANTO XII. 377 
 
 Falls off from their bodies the hair. Their 
 
 friends of the former days, 
 Both little and big, recede from them 
 
 now, and naked them leave, 
 As did in a body the dogs, at once their 
 
 companion forsake, 
 When they had his injury seen, and noticed 
 
 his badly used half. 
 
 Gracious lord, you know very well that none 
 
 can of Reynard so talk. 
 For me shall my friends never have any 
 
 reason whatever to blush. 280 
 
 Accept for your favor my thanks, and if 
 
 but I could, at all times. 
 Learn with precision your will, I gladly 
 
 would bring it to pass. 
 
 Much talking will do us no good, responded 
 to Reynard the king; 
 
 To all I attention have paid, and know- 
 very well what you mean. 
 
378 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 You now as a baron I'll have in council 
 again as before, 
 
 And make it a duty of yours, at every 
 season and hour, 
 
 With my privy council to meet. And thus 
 I restore you again 
 
 Completely to honor and power, and this 
 you will merit, I hope. 
 
 Help all to be done for the best! I can- 
 not you spare from the court. 
 
 And if you take care to combine upright- 
 ness with wisdom, I trow 290 
 
 That none will you ever surpass, or with 
 greater acumen and skill. 
 
 Advice and contrivances plan. I will, in 
 the future, complaints 
 
 Not hear about you any more; and ever 
 shall you, in my stead. 
 
 As chancellor speak and perform; the seal 
 of the empire, as well. 
 
 Committed shall be to your hands, and 
 what you may do or indite, 
 
 Shall remain as indited and done. Thus 
 fairly has Reynard again 
 
a strhtpbe 
 
 "With manifestations of grief, their friend on a stfStpher they laid, 
 And carried him out of the ring." 
 
CANTO XII. 379 
 
 Himself into favor propelled, and everything 
 
 has to be done 
 In accord with his counsel and will, be it 
 
 either for evil or good. 
 
 In thanking the king, Reynard said: My 
 
 noble commander and prince. 
 You grant to me honor too great, in mind 
 
 I shall ever it bear, 300 
 
 As I hope understanding to keep. That 
 
 clearly by you shall be seen. 
 
 What happened meanwhile to the wolf, let 
 us briefly endeavor to find. 
 
 Defeated he lay in the ring, and treated 
 with insult and shame; 
 
 His wife and his friends to him went, as 
 also did Tybert the cat. 
 
 And Bruin the bear, and children and serv- 
 ants and all of his kin; 
 
 With manifestations of grief, their friend 
 on a stretcher .they laid — 
 
380 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Which they had well padded with hay, in 
 
 order to furnish him warmth — 
 And carried him out of the ring. His 
 
 wounds being seen to, they found 
 That he twenty-six had received. A num- 
 ber of surgeons arrived, 
 Who bandaged him up out of hand, and 
 
 administered curative drugs. 310 
 
 He was crippled in every limb. They 
 
 likewise applied to his ear 
 A salve made of herbs, and loudly he 
 
 sneezed both before and behind. 
 They, after consulting, resolved to bathe 
 
 him and rub him with oil. 
 Such was the way that the wolf was 
 
 cheered by his 'sorrowing friends; 
 They carefully put him to bed, and he 
 
 slept, though not very long, 
 But woke in confusion and grief; his shame 
 
 and the pain of his wounds 
 Him greatly upset; he lamented aloud and 
 
 seemed in despair. 
 Him tenderly Greedimund nursed, though 
 
 bearing a sorrowful heart, 
 
CANTO XII. 381 
 
 As she of his injuries thought. With 
 
 manifold spasms and pains, 
 There stood she and pitied herself, as also 
 
 her children and friends; 320 
 
 Then looked at the suffering man, and 
 
 thought he could never get well; 
 He was raving with pain, his anguish was 
 
 great, the sequel was sad. 
 
 But Reynard, half crazy with joy, an 
 
 agreeable gossip enjoyed. 
 On various things, with his friends; he 
 
 heard his own praises resound. 
 And went in high feather from there. 
 
 The gracious and worshipful king 
 Sent with him an escort along, and heartily 
 
 said, as he left: 
 Come back again soon ! The fox on the 
 
 ground then knelt at the throne. 
 And said: I give you my cordial thanks, 
 
 and also my lady the queen. 
 Your council, and all of the lords. My 
 
 sovereign master, may God 
 
382 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Many honors in store for you keep, and 
 
 what it may be you desire 330 
 
 I gladly shall do; I love you indeed, as in 
 
 duty I'm bound. 
 At present, if you will permit, I purpose 
 
 to go to my home. 
 My wife and dear children to see, who are 
 
 sadly awaiting me there. 
 
 Go at once, responded the king, you further 
 
 have nothing to fear. 
 And Reynard thus took himself off, raised 
 
 higher in favor than all. 
 Great numbers there are of his kind, who 
 
 practice the very same art; 
 Red beards do not all of them wear, but 
 
 still are they kept out of sight. 
 
 Proudly now Reynard withdrew, with all of 
 
 his race, from the court. 
 With forty relations, who felt much pleased 
 
 at the honor received. 
 
CANTO XII. 383 
 
 Reynard stepped forth like a lord, the 
 
 others all marching behind. 340 
 
 He seemed in good spirits just then, his 
 
 brush had much broader become, 
 He had, by his luck and success, found 
 
 favor again with the king. 
 Was now in the council once more; and 
 
 thought how to put it to use. 
 All those whom I love, it shall aid, and 
 
 benefit all of my friends. 
 He resolved ; more highly is wisdom, by far, 
 
 to be honored than gold. 
 
 Thus Reynard betook himself off, attended 
 
 by all of his friends. 
 Towards Malepartus his fort, whither now he 
 
 directed his steps. 
 Himself he showed thankful to all who 
 
 friendship to him had displayed. 
 And who, at the moment of doubt, had 
 
 rallied themselves to his side. 
 He offered his services now in return, as 
 
 they parted and went, 350 
 
384 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 Each one of them all, to his own ; and he, 
 
 when he came to his home, 
 Found his wife, dame Ermelyn, well; she 
 
 joyfully welcomed him back, 
 About his vexations enquired, and how he 
 
 again had escaped. 
 All right, Reynard said, I came off! Once 
 
 more have I managed myself 
 Into favor to raise with the king; I shall, 
 
 as in seasons gone by. 
 In council again have my place, and this, 
 
 for the whole of our race, 
 Will to honor and glory redound. He has, 
 
 as prime minister, me 
 Appointed in presence of all, and to me 
 
 has entrusted his seal. 
 All Reynard may do or may write, shall 
 
 now and for ever remain 
 Exactly as written and done, and well may 
 
 all bear this in mind. 360 
 
 A lesson I've taught to the wolf, and not 
 many minutes it took. 
 
CANTO XII. 385 
 
 So he will impeach me no more. Sore 
 
 wounded and blinded he is; 
 And dishonored, the whole of his race; my 
 
 mark I upon him have left. 
 Small use after this will he be to the 
 
 world. Together we fought, 
 And I have come out on the top. I think 
 
 he will hardly again 
 Recover his health. What care I for that? 
 
 Above him I am. 
 And all of his comrades as well, who with 
 
 him have taken their stand. 
 
 His wife was now greatly rejoiced; more 
 resolute also became 
 
 Both of his two little boys, at their father's 
 promotion and fame. 
 
 With joy to each other they said: Delect- 
 able days we shall have, 370 
 
 Respected and honored by all; meanwhile 
 we must do what we can. 
 
 Our citadel's strength to increase, and 
 cheerful and fearless to live. 
 
386 REYNARD THE FOX. 
 
 High honor has Reynard just now! And 
 
 now unto wisdom let each 
 Himself at once turn, all evil avoid, and 
 
 virtue esteem ! 
 This is the sense of the song, in which 
 
 has the poet seen fit 
 To mingle both fable and fact, that evil 
 
 from good one may learn 
 To winnow, and wisdom may prize; that 
 
 buyers likewise of this book 
 May daily instruction receive in the ways 
 
 and affairs of the world. 
 As in the beginning it was, is now and 
 
 will ever remain. 
 And thus doth our narrative end of Rey- 
 nard the fox and his ways. 
 The Lord in his mercy us help to glory 
 
 eternal! amen. 381