20 FAVOURITE FABLES.

Great Jupiter smiled (for he laughed at the brute,
As he saw more of folly than vice in his suit),
And striking the earth with omnipotent force,
A Camel rose up near the terrified Horse :
He trembled—he started—his mane shook with fright,
And he staggered half round, as preparing for flight.

‘‘ Behold !’’ exclaimed Jove, ‘‘ there an animal stands
With both your improvements at once to your hands:
His legs are much longer; the hump on his back
Well answers the purpose of saddle or sack:
Of your shapes, tell me, which is more finished and trim ?
Speak out, silly Horse, would you wish to be him?’’

The Horse looked abashed, and had nothing to say
And Jove, with reproaches, thus sent him away :
‘* Begone, till you gratefully feel and express
Your thanks for the blessings and gifts you possess.
The Camel, though plain, is mild, useful, and good;
You are handsome, but proud, discontented and rude.”