This fable gives us a lively representation of the general behaviour of
mankind towards that grim king of terrors, Death. Such liberties do they
take with him behind his back, that, upon every little cross accident
which happens in their way, Death is immediately called upon; and they
even wish it might be lawful for them to finish by their own hands a
life so odious, so perpetually tormenting and vexatious. When, let but
Death only offer to make his appearance, and the very sense of his near
approach almost does the business. Oh, then all they want is a little
longer life; and they would be glad to come off so well as to have their
old burden laid upon their shoulders again. One may well conclude what
an utter aversion they, who are in youth, health, and vigour of body,
have to dying, when age, poverty, and wretchedness, are not sufficient
to reconcile us to the thought.