A Polecat, that had long committed depredations on the farm-yard,
having a mind to make a meal of the blood of the Cock, seized him one
morning by surprize, and asked him what he could say for himself why
slaughter should not pass upon him? The Cock replied, that he was
serviceable to mankind by crowing in the morning, and calling them
up to their daily labour. That is true, says the Polecat, and is the
very objection that I have against you, for you make such a shrill
impertinent noise, that people cannot sleep for you. Besides, you are
an incestuous rascal, and make no scruple of lying with your mother
and sisters. Well, says the Cock, this I do not deny; but I do it to
procure eggs and chickens for my master. Ah! villain, says the Polecat,
hold your wicked tongue, such impieties as these declare that you are
no longer fit to live.