FABLE 32

The Two Owls and the Sparrow

Two formal Owls together sat,
Conferring thus in solemn chat:
“How is the modern taste decay’d!
Where’s the respect to wisdom paid?
Our worth the Grecian sages knew;
They gave our sires the honour due;
They weigh’d the dignity of fowls,
And pry’d into the depth of Owls.
Athens, the seat of learned fame,
With general voice revered our name;
On merit title was conferr’d,
And all adored th’ Athenian bird.”
“Brother, you reason well,” replies
The solemn mate, with half-shut eyes;
“Right: Athens was the seat of learning;
And truly wisdom is discerning.
Besides, on Pallas’ helm we sit?
The type and ornament of wit:
But now, alas! we’re quite neglected,
And a pert Sparrow’s more respected.”
A Sparrow, who was lodged beside,
O’erhears them soothe each other’s pride,
And thus he nimbly vents his heat:
“Who meets a fool must find conceit.
I grant you were at Athens graced,
And on Minerva’s helm were placed;
But every bird that wings the sky,
Except an Owl, can tell you why.
From hence they taught their schools to know
How false we judge by outward show;
That we should never looks esteem,
Since fools as wise as you, might seem.
Would ye contempt and scorn avoid,
Let your vainglory be destroy’d;
Humble your arrogance of thought,
Pursue the ways by nature taught;
So shall you find delicious fare,
And grateful farmers praise your care;
So shall sleek mice your chase reward,
And no keen cat find more regard.”