[Illustration: THE LION AND OTHER BEASTS.]
The Lion and several other beasts entered into an alliance, offensive
and defensive, and were to live very sociably together in the forest.
One day, having made a sort of an excursion by way of hunting, they took
a very fine, large, fat deer, which was divided into four parts; there
happening to be then present his majesty the Lion, and only three
others. After the division was made, and the parts were set out, his
majesty advancing forward some steps, and pointing to one of the shares,
was pleased to declare himself after the following manner: 'This I seize
and take possession of as my right, which devolves to me, as I am
descended by a true, lineal, hereditary succession from the royal family
of Lion: that (pointing to the second) I claim by, I think, no
unreasonable demand; considering that all the engagements you have with
the enemy turn chiefly upon my courage and conduct; and you very well
know, that wars are too expensive to be carried on without proper
supplies. Then (nodding his head towards the third) that I shall take by
virtue of my prerogative; to which, I make no question, but so dutiful
and loyal a people will pay all the deference and regard that I can
desire. Now, as for the remaining part, the necessity of our present
affairs is so very urgent, our stock so low, and our credit so impaired
and weakened, that I must insist upon your granting that, without any
hesitation or demur; and hereof fail not at your peril.'