This Fable points out the dangers to which we expose ourselves, when,
for want of presence of mind, we suffer ourselves to be guided by our
unreasoning fears, which no sooner shew us an evil, than they throw
us into the utmost confusion in our manner of escaping, and prevent
us from discerning the safe path by which we ought to avoid it. Thus,
in a rash endeavour to shun a less danger, we oftentimes blindly
run headlong into a greater. The fate of the Deer should warn us to
consider well what may be the ultimate consequences, before we take any
important step; for many paths which appear smooth and pleasant at a
distance, are found to be rough and dangerous, when we come to tread
them; and many a plausible scheme, which promises us ease and safety,
is no better than a tempting bower, with a Lion crouching among its
foliage, ready to spring upon and devour us.
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