CHAP. VII REYNARD THE FOX 47

space, but you shall have more mice than you
are able to devour. Hark, you may hear how
they peep; when your belly is full, come again,
and I will stay and await for you here at
this hole, that to-morrow we may go together
to the court. But, good cousin, stay not too
long, for I know my wife will hourly expect us.’

 

 

 

 

‘Then,’ said the cat, ‘think you I may
safely enter in at this hole? these priests are
wise, and subtle, and couch their danger so
close, that rashness is soon overtaken.’

‘Why, cousin Tibert, said the fox, ‘I
never saw you turn coward before; what, man,
fear you a shadow?’

The cat, ashamed at his fear, sprang quickly
in at the hole, but was presently caught fast