Xv REYNARD THE FOX 109

hare by the neck, at which the hare cried unto
Bellin for help, but could not be heard, for the
fox in a trice had torn out his throat; which
done, he, his wife, and young ones feasted
therewith merrily, eating the flesh, and drink-
ing the blood to the King’s health; but
Ermelin, growing suspicious, said, ‘1 fear,
Reynard, you mock me; as you love me, tell
me how you sped at the court.’

Then he told her how extremely he had
flattered the King and the Queen, and abused
them with a feigned promise of treasure that
was not, insomuch, that he knew when it
should come to be revealed, the King would
seek all the means he could to destroy him.

‘Therefore, wife,’ said he, ‘there is no
remedy but we must steal from hence into
some other forest where we may live in better
safety, and in a place more fruitful, where we
shall have all the delicate meats that can be
wished for; clear springs, fresh rivers, cool
shades, and wholesome air. Here I know is
no abiding, and now I have gotten my thumb
out of the King’s mouth, I will no more come
within the danger of his talons.’

‘Vet, said ZLyrmclin, ‘1 have no fancy to
go from hence to a place where I am utterly