Previous: AN OBSTACLE.
THE FOX WHO HAD LOST HIS TAIL.
The fox who had lost his tail found out That now he could faster go; He had less to cover when hid for prey, He had less to carry on hunting day, He had less to guard when he stood at bay; He was really better so! Now he was a fine altruistical fox With the good of his race at heart, So he ran to his people with tailless speed, To tell of the change they all must need, And recommend as a righteous deed That they and their tails should part! Plain was the gain as plain could be, But his words did not avail; For they all replied, “We perceive your case; You do not speak for the good of the race, But only to cover your own disgrace, Because you have lost your tail!” Then another fox, of a liberal mind, With a tail of splendid size, Became convinced that the tailless state Was better for all of them, soon or late. Said he, “I will let my own tail wait, And so I can open their eyes.” Plain was the gain as plain could be, But his words did not avail, For they all made answer, “My plausible friend, You talk wisely and well, but you talk to no end. We know you’re dishonest and only pretend, For you have not lost your tail!”
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