CHAP. VIII REYNARD THE FOX 53

days your castle will be demolished, your
kindred made slaves, and yourself exempted
for a public example. Therefore, my best
uncle, I beseech you recollect your wisdom,
and go with me presently to the court, I doubt
not but your discretion shall excuse you, for
you have passed through many as eminent
perils, and made your foes ashamed, whilst the
innocence of your cause hath borne you spot-
less from the tribunal.

Reynard answered, ‘ Nephew, you say true,
and I will be advised and go with you, not to
answer offences, but in that I know the court
stands in need of my counsel. The King’s
mercy I doubt not, if 1 may come to speak with
his Majesty, though mine offences were ten
times doubled; for I know the court cannot
stand without me, and that shall his highness
understand truly. Though I know I have
many enemies, yet it troubles me not; for mine
innocence shall awaken their injuries, and they
shall know that in high matters of state and
policy Reynard cannot be missing. They may
well harp upon things, but the pitch and
ground must come from my relation. It is the
envy of others hath made me leave the court,
for though I know their shallowness cannot