EAVOURITE FABLES. 117

But still the Brook its peaceful course
Continued to pursue;

Her ample, inexhausted source,
From Nature’s fount she drew.

‘“‘Now,”’ said the Brook, ‘I bless my fate,
My showy rival gone;

Contented in its native state
My little stream rolls on.

And all the world has cause, indeed,
To own, with grateful heart,

How much great Nature’s works excel
The feeble works of art.”

MORAL.

Humble usefulness is preferable to idle splendour.

—_o0——.

FABLE LXXXV.

THE MICE IN COUNCIL.

Tue Mice called a general council, and, having met, after
the doors were locked, entered into a free consultation about
ways and means how to render their fortunes and estates