MAnie (in all Ages) have made it their peculiar studie to search into the na­ture of humane things; but amongst those, whose Notions have com to the light of Posteritie, few or none have Aesop parallel'd; who, as by divine In­spiration atteining the perfection of moral Knowledg, may justly bee said, therein, to have born awaie the Glo­rie from them All: who neither by intricate definiti­ons, nor abstruse reasoning nor from preceding exam­ples admonishing, but onely by pleasant Fables instru­cting, so won the affections of the Hearers, that it see­med to them a shame, that they indued with reason, should not wisely act, and foresee those things that might bee for their advantage or prejudice, as did the Beast and Fowl hee figured. In which image of his Philosophical Common-wealth▪ seeming rather to Philosophize in works, then in words. Hee was a Native of Ammo­ria a Citie of Phrygia, sirnamed the great; by fortune a slave; but the subjection of his Bodie could not cor­rupt▪ nor yet inthral his Minde. As little gratious in his form had Nature likewise been to him, beeing of all [Page] men of that Age the most deform'd: Sharp-headed, flat-nos'd, pouch-mouth'd, short-neck't, crook-back't, tun-bellied, Baker-kneed, bow-leg'd, inverst-footed, all which were varnish't with a hideous black, which gave him the distinction of his name, Aesop implying Aethiop. To these a voice obscure and inarticulate; so that in him all Pieces did agree, as hee were predesign'd to ignomie. But though in Bodie thus irregular▪ his wit was sudden, and invention sharp, yet becaus not com­municable, his Master him (as fit for no domestick use) imploied onely to dig up the soil: to which with much alacritie hee still appli'd himself. The Steward to this Lord (to shew himself carefull to his Master's trust, and the Soil gratefull to his Master's cost) presented unto him the choisest Figs the Season had afforded, which to the trust of a domestick given, till hee disposed were thereof to eat: the Trustee with his Fellows privately contriv'd to eat the Fruit, and to charge Aesop with the theft thereof: who by these Mates accus'd, was judged guiltie, and to Supplice brought: But Aesop prostrate at his Master's feet, obteining a Repriev, a flaggon of warm water brought before them all, wherof part drin­king, he to his Fellows the remainder gave, the warmnes of the water suddenly a loathing caussed in their Sto­machs, provoking them to vomit: from Aesop onely the pure water came; but his Accusers with the wa [...]er straight disclos'd their guilt; who justly suffer'd what they had prepared for the Innocent: while Aesop with Applaus dismist, returned to his work. On which in­tentive two of Diana's Priests, by chance, had lost their waie, to him repaired for direction, to which (after som small refection given them) Aesop became their Guide: for whose benevolence, the gratefull Priests addrest their zealous Preirs to Heav'n, like Grace from [Page] thence might bee enlarg'd to him. Aesop return'd tra­vel had soon o'recom his sens with sleep, in which hee dream't Fortune appear'd to him, loosing his fetter'd tongue, and him inspiring with this moral facultie; from which hee waking, found the success of what was figured; thankfull to Heav'n, Aesop, o'recom with joie, himself addressing to his task again, espied the Steward Zenas (for som slight fault) sharply correcting one of his Mates with blows: Aesop reproaching him his daily crueltie, threatned to make complaint unto his Lord. The Steward much amaz'd to hear him speak, and jea­lous now hee might provoke his Master to displeasure against him: to frustrate which, hee against Aesop (with fals suggestions) prepossest his Lord, which credit winning, wrought so much dislike, that Aesop was surrendred solie to his hands, him to dispose of, as best liked him: whereon a passing Merchant requiring of him what hee had to sell; Zenas presented Aesop; the Merchant much incenst, as hee had mocked him, in contemt of the proffer turn'd suddenly awaie: accosting whom, Aesop desir'd him to accept the sale, hee might bee usefull to him; in that, perhaps hee might at home have som unhappie Boies, o're whom if hee might but preside to keep them in aw, hee should to them as an Hobgoblin bee. The Merchant pleas'd with the con­ceit, tender'd his Price, and mongst his new Mates, bid him choos his Pack: Aesop heeron took a great Basket, which was fil'd with bread for their Provision, whereat his Fellows much derided him, in that hee had the greatest, might have took the least: but ere they travel'd far, few meals had Aesop's carriage made so light, they envied him his burden. The Merchant with his Troop to Sames com, exposed Aesop and his Mates to sale: whom Xanthus a Philosopher abourding [Page] (neglecting Aesop) strictly examin'd of their Faculties, they made replie, That they could all things do; at which Aesop laughed scornfully: which Xanthus scho­lars observing, they desir'd him, hee would Aesop prove; to whom addrest Xanthus ask't, What hee was? Ae­sop said, Black: Xanthus said, hee mistook, hee ask't, Whence hee was born? Aesop replied, from his mothers womb. Xanthus said hee yet not apprehended him, hee asked him. In what Place hee was born? Aesop repli'd, His Mother ne're told him, whither it were above stairs or below. Xanthus ask't, What hee could do? Aesop said, Nothing; his fellows All but lately had ingrost, and nothing left to him. Xanthus ask't him if hee bought him, if hee'd not run awaie? Aesop repli'd, if such his purpose were, hee'd of his Counsel not his Master make. Xanthus objected, that he was deform'd; Aesop replied A Philosopher ought to make the Minde & not the Bo­die the Object of his choice. The Scholars much deligh­ted with his wit, tender'd his Price; & gave him to their Master for their use. The standers by o'rehearing of the Price, much wondering at the meanness of the same, ask't, who it was that bought him; who him sold. But (asham'd of his value) neither would declare themselvs: Whereon Aesop said, Hee was the Partie sold; Xan­thus the Chapman; The Merchant made the sale; if neither this avouch't, then hee was free; Aesop brought home, no pleasing object was to Xanthus wife: But Aesop shewing her the prejudice a handsom slave might bee unto her Fame, restrain'd the violence of her Passi­on; which better yet to pacifie, Xanthus to a Publike Garden went, to buie for her a Present of the choisest Fruits, with him Aesop taking to conveie them home. Arrived there, the fruit beeing gather'd and delivered; for which Xanthus beeing about to paie; the Ga [...]dner [Page] prai'd him to accept of them, hee onely did desire of him solution to one doubt, which was, Why those Herbs planted by his hand, though water'd and manured dili­gently, yet slowly took increas: but what sprung from the Earth of their accord, although neglected, sooner germinate? Xanthus (not knowing what els well to saie) replied, this, as other things was in the Government of Divine Providence: at which Aesop laughing; Xan­thus incenst, ask't, if in it, hee had derided him? Aesop replied; not him, but who him taught: For what was by Divine Providence don, by wise men onely should bee scrutable: desiring that the resolution might bee left to him; which granted, Aesop thus answered it; A Woman having children by the first, became the Wife unto a second Husband, who children also by a former had: unto the children shee brought forth, the Wife a most indulgent Mother was; but unto those of which shee found her Husband prepossest, a churlish stepdame, whose rights shee often them abridg'd, to cherish more her own: So the Earth, to those that were her proper Issue, as Legitimate, plentifully administred: But unto those that planted were by Art, as Bastards, scarce afforded Nourishment. The Gardner with the Answer satisfied; bad Aesop fetch fruit gratis when hee would. When home return'd: Xanthus bad Aesop (among other things) prepare a pair of Hog's feet for his Supper, which on the fire set; Xanthus, occasion seeking to correct his Slave, as hee was busied on som other thing, took privately out of the Pot a foot; which Aesop not long after missing (foresaw som snare was laid to intrap him) ran forthwith to a Stall at hand, and from a Hog, lately shut up to fat, chopt off a foot, drest it, and cast it to the rest i'th Pot▪ Xanthus (in the Interim) doubting, when Aesop should miss the [Page] foot hee took for fear of Punishment would run away, went secretly, and cast it in again: when they were boil'd, as Aesop pour'd them forth. Xanthus discover­ing five feet in the dish, ask't, How that came to pass? Aesop abash't, required, How manie feet two Hogs should have? Xanthus said, eight; Aesop replied, the number then was right; five in the dish, and the other three the fat Hog had, was inclos'd in the Stall. Xan­thus incensed; Aesop desir'd his Patience, saying, Hee well knew, that from addition and reduction in quan­titie could happen no error in the whole sum. Next daie a solemn feast was held by Xanthus Scholars, where hee collecting of the choisest meats, to Aesop them delivered, with a charge, hee should to them present it, lov'd him best: hee on his Mistress thinking to bee reveng'd: came home, and in her hearing, ut­tering his late charge, Licaena cal'd, a little Cur his Master of en plaid with in his lap, and gave to him the meat▪ his Mistress heeron high in rage and grief, with­drew unto her Chamber, there with manie tears be­wailing this affront, as suppos'd from her Husband. Aesop return'd; a great dispute arose amongst the Phi­losophes, When the greatest disturbance should befall man­kinde. The Question not at Table satisfied, Aesop had leav to speak, who said▪ This happen would in the last Resurrection of the dead, when each one should re­quire, what once they had possest. Aesop's facetious wit heeron all much approved, and by them strait ano­ther was propounded: Why Sheep led to the slaughter, as Swine no clamours vent: The Question at a stand; Aesop repli'd; Sheep usually were handled to bee milkt, and of the burden of their Fleece to bee devested; in which took from their feet, no ill suspected from the sight of iron: but Swine that neither milked were nor [Page] shorn, well knew for these respects not to bee drawn, but for their flesh, which onely was of use; therefore just reason for their out-crie had. Aesop's conceit much laughter moved till the Feast broke up. Xanthus returned Home, his Wife reproach't him her indignitie, as judging it from him; who much amaz'd, cal'd Aesop to enlighten the disorder; Aesop said, hee perform'd but his commands in giving this his Present to the Dog; as to them lov'd him best: for though his Mistress seem'd benevolent, yet when reprov'd, shee would re­vile again, the Dog though threat and beat, return'd with new endearments to his Master's Lap. But all this in his wives opinion could not Xanthus clear, who to her Parents strait in this distaste repair'd; to the di­sturbance of her anxious Husband; whom Aesop fin­ding much perplext, to pacifie this trouble, by his act procur'd; practis'd this slight, to fetch her home again. With a great Basket hee to Market went, which hee well stored with the choisest Fowl, then near the dwel­ling where his Mistress was, enquired for such rarities, might grace a Nuptial Feast. Which beeing by one of the Domesticks over-heard, hee busily curious, unto Aesop came, to know for whom this Preparation was▪ Aesop (faining him not to know) repli'd; for Xanthus the Philosopher, who on the morrow should a fair Vir­gin wed. The Servant home returning with this hastie news, fil'd Xanthus wife with rage and jealousie, who strait flew home to frustrate this design, where joifully received, with the Provision, feasting, shee was re­concil'd. And to congratulate this new Union, Xan­thus next daie his Scholars made his Guests; comman­ding Aesop for the entertainment buie the best of things. Aesop (whose aim still was to mock his Master's learn­ing) thought, hee would punish him for this his unad­vis'd [Page] Commission to Market went, where buying nought but tongues, home hee return'd and drest them sundrie waies. The Guest arriv'd; first boil'd tongues hee sent in, whereat they all commended Aesop's inge­nuitie that to Philosophers for the first Mess thus had served Tongues, the Ministers of knowledg. For the next service, rosted Tongues was set, for the next bak't; So that in Sum they nothing had but Tongues; at which the Guests were much abash't, and Xanthus much in­censt; who Aesop calling rebuked with much furie: Aesop returned thanks to him; in that hee favour'd him with that advantage in this his reproof, to cal him to ac­count for this his default, in the presence of Philosophers, who had capacitie to judg the Nature of his Crime, if such there anie were, then turning to his Master, said, He bad him buie of all things the most excellent; Appea­ling then to the Assemblie, ask't, What there could bee more excellent then Tongues; by them all knowledg was communicated. Cities erected, Laws establisht, Nupti­als celebrated, Men protected, Friendship confirm'd; in brief the Commerce of man's whole life consisted onely in the use thereof: At which all smiling approv'd what Aesop said; Xanthus himself (on Aesop's fault) excusing to his Guests; said, they should sup with him; and to the end they should no farther bee abused in their Entertainment, they should bee witness to the charge hee gave; then calling Aesop, with purpose to in­trap him, bad him for their Supper buie the worst of things: Which Aesop did; and for their Supper nothing serv'd but Tongues again. Summon'd heeron to an­swer his Delinquencie: Aesop for his Defence insisted o'th particulars of his Charge, that nothing ever wors could bee then Tongues: By these, quarrels were be­got, Men slain, Lies forged, Execrations dispensed, [Page] Perjurie vented, Kingdoms overthrown; and in brief thereby the whole life entangled in error; whereat the Guests not so well pleas'd, one of them said, If Xanthus were not arm'd with Patience beyond the suffrance of a Man, Aesop would make him mad: whom Aesop strait reproving, said, Hee was a busie curious fellow to incens the Master so against his Servant. Xanthus occasion ta­king to beat Aesop, in that hee blam'd his Friend as curi­ous; impos'd a Charge on him to bring him One, that was not so. Which to effect, Aesop went forth into the street, where looking earnestly about him; hee descri­ed a man a long time in a corner had sit still immov'd: Aesop (him judging som simple idle drone) invited him to Dinner from his Master; the Clown not asking who his Master was or where, went home with him. Xan­thus admiring much this his new guest, askt Aesop, who hee was: Aesop repli'd a man not curious, such as hee had commanded him to bring. Xanthus his wife strait whispering in the ear; desir'd her to fulfill what ere hee bad her do, hee might advantage win to punish Aesop's Insolence: forthwith his voice exalting, bad her bring som water to wash the feet of this his welcom Guest: Prefiguring to himself, his Guest would in civilitie re­fuse so mean a Ministrie from so fair a hand; and in so doing Aesop might bee convicted; of which his wife de­sirous appli'd her self thereto with diligence. The Clown esteeming this as a peculiar grace to honor him, his feet extended without Cerimonie; which washt, as rudely hee sat down. Xanthus pursuing still his Purpose; bad fill his Guest som Wine imagining his Guest would in good manners move the Cup might first have been pre­fer'd to him; the Clown esteeming this as right to his respect, accepted it, and cleared with the Cup the doubt; then eagerly fell on the Mess that nighest was to hand; [Page] which, Xanthus following his design, condemned much in that it not well ordered was; and calling for the Cook, reviled him with sharp rebukes, which were pur­su'd with blows; the Clown without intermission fee­ding, said, The Meat was verie good, Xanthus might saie, and do his Pleasure, it not concerned him. Xan­thus much vext hee could not trap his Guest; at last ser­vice a Marchpane, seem'd much to mislike, and calling for the Pastrie-Cook, reproacht him manie defects i'th composure; who made replie, Had it not been well bak't, hee might have born the blame; but the fault beeing in the making, his Mistress therein was to bee condemn'd, who onely had a hand in it: Xanthus a private signal giving to his wife, stept in a furie to her, saying, since 'twas her fault, shee onely for it should bee burnt alive, then to the fire bearing her in his Arms, paused a while, exspecting when his Guest would run to rescue her. But hee fast tied by the teeth, praid Xan­thus, if hee pleas'd to hold his hand awhile, hee would fetch his Wife too, they both might burn together. Xan­thus admiring the immotion of the Clown, yielded the Victorie unto Aesop's choice: and forthwith sent him to the common Bath, to bee inform'd what companie there was, if few or none, his resolution beeing then to bathe himself. Aesop on his errand hasting, encountred the chief Magistrate; who knowing hee belong'd to Xan­thus, askt him, Where hee went? Aesop in haste re­pli'd. Hee did not know; the Magistrate believing this slight answer made in scorn of him, committed him to Prison: Passing to which, Aesop said to the Magistrate, hee now might see how pertinently hee had answer'd him, hee did not know that hee should go to Prison: The Magistrate much pleased with his readie wit, forth­with enlarged him: Who coming to the Bath, observed [Page] manie there, who at the entrie stumbling at a stone, past to and fro not much regarding it: Onely One came, and ere like chance befel him, it remov'd. Aesop return'd, inform'd his Master there was but one man onely in the Bath. But Xanthus thither com, finding a multitude, reproved Aesop for abusing him: Aesop repli'd; all com­ing to and fro, had stumbled at a stone just in the entrie laie, One onely had remov'd it ere hee past, to whom the rest compar'd hee could not judg them men, giving such slight evidence of that facultie, which should for such distinguish them: heeron Xanthus not judging it a fit time to bathe, withdrew from thence unto a private Feast of his Societie, to which som time before hee was invited; where on discours of lustie Bibbers, hee high in wine and fancie boasted, hee onely would exhaust the Sea, by drinking it, which proffering by wager to make good, found an Accepter there, who from their hands deposited their rings, to confirm the Contract, which was the losers dwelling hous consigned was thereby un­to the winner. Xanthus, his wits recovering with his sleep missed his ring next morning, as hee washt; where­of Aesop hee examining, found to his grief the Error hee had don, and to his succor, with large proffers, sum­mon'd Aesop's wit; Aesop repli'd, to win there was no possibilitie, but his Engagement to withdraw, that hee assur'd him of. Which as Aesop advis'd, was thus pur­su'd: Th'Assemblie met the wager to determine; Xan­thus immov'd no part of it deni'd, himself preparing to the enterprize; of the sea water taking a full Bowl; first loudly publisht the Particulars, which were, hee should the Sea drink drie, his adversarie therewith summon­ing, as his part to stop all rivers fell into the deep, it bee­ing the Sea hee onely was to drink, not the fresh waters thither issuing, which demand held but just, and either [Page] Part impossible; the wager was withdrawn. Xanthus securing both his Fame and Goods by Aesop's subtiltie. When home return'd; Aesop requir'd his freedom for his recompens, to which unwilling, Xanthus bad him first to go forth, and if two Crows hee did discover, to bring him word thereof, it would bee to him a good Omen; if but one, it did protend ill hap. Aesop went forth, and spying two, return'd▪ informing thereof, Xan­thus, who, hasting forth to see them, found but one; the other in the interim beeing flown awaie: whereon Xan­thus believing Aesop had derided him, fell on his skirts with blows: during which fraie a Messenger came in to invite Xanthus to a Publick Feast. Which hearing▪ Aesop reproacht his Master this his Augurie: saying Hee that had two Crows seen was heaten, his Master that but One, was feasted: Xanthus to gratulate this Entertain­ment; another made soon after: at which Aesop had charge to let in none but such were letter'd men. Aesop (as hee was wont) his Master's learning to deride, kept the Door shut, and as the Guests knockt, askt, what the Dog mov'd? At which without replie, distasted All return'd; but one, who when Aesop askt, What the Dog mov'd, repli'd, his Ears and Tale, to whom free entrie Aesop onely gave. Xanthus perplext to see his Guests, but this, had All deceived him, was at next meeting in­form'd of the Caus: Aesop to judgment cal'd, objected in defens, his charge was onely the literate to admit; for Proof whereof, hee onely askt, What the Dog mov'd? But they not able to resolv, hee could not judg them of those Guests, his Master purpos'd to receiv. Xanthus (for shame, concealing his displeasure, till time produc'd a juster caus of Punishment) went forth with Aesop to view the Publike Monuments of the dead; where on a Column, Aesop finding this Inscription ( [...].) [Page] askt of his Master, If hee could interpet it; Xanthus confest his doubts; Aesop desir'd to know what his re­ward should bee, if hee thereby a secret Treasure should disclose to him. Xanthus repli'd, His Libertie. Aesop heeron four Paces measuring from the Tomb, dig'd up the Earth, and found a Pot of Gold; which to his Ma­ster bringing, hee his Promiss clame'd. Xanthus said, first hee should expound to him the Sens of the Chara­cters, which hee more prized then the Gold, was by them figured; which Aesop thus did, [...]: which is, Going from hence four Paces, digging thou shalt finde a Treasure of Gold. Xanthus said, Since hee was so subtil hee should not bee made free. Aesop vext▪ thus abus'd, said, Hee must further let him know, This Treasure should bee given to the Bizantian King. Xanthus demanded, Whence hee had learnt that. Aesop repli'd, the same letters did infer the same, [...]. Which is, Give the Treasure of Gold which you have found to Dionysius the King. Xanthus now fearing to bee di­spossest, bad Aesop silent bee, hee should enjoie his liber­tie, with half the Gold to boot. Aesop said, half was his right without his Gift by the Intention of the Erector of the Monument. Xanthus askt▪ Where hee found that? Aesop repli'd, in the same Characters it was figured, [...]: which is, Receiv'd, going away, di­vide the Treasure of Gold, which you have found. Xan­thus said, when hee came home hee should both have his share and libertie. Both beeing return'd: Xan­thus in fear that Aesop should divulge his new adven­ture; cast him in Prison. Where Aesop shamefully re­proaching him the breach of his Promiss, was at length [Page] set free: but not restored to his libertie: which Aesop him assur'd hee should ere long attein against his will; about which time hapned this accident in the Samian State. As they were in the Cerimonie of a so­lemn Feast, an Eagle had trust up their Publick Seal, and dropt it in the bosom of a Slave. Amaz'd at this new Prodegie, the Magistrates repair'd to Xanthus as the chief Philosopher, t'expound the Mysterie: but hee as full of doubt as they, som time required thereon to de­liberate. In which Aesop perceiving Xanthus full of trouble, knowing well the caus, desir'd him to cast the burden of his doubts on him, and the next daie to let the Samians know it was no part of his Profession to in­terpret Auguries, but that hee had a Boie, who skilfull was therein, and what they sought was able to resolv; and if hee did enlighten the Presage, it would an honor to his Master be, who had in his Possession such a slave, but if hee fail'd therein, the hazzard of the Error would solie fall on him; to which persuaded, Xanthus next daie what Aesop had adviz'd, communicated to the Samians, whereon Aesop summon'd, Publickly stood forth and said, That Fortune (still the Minister of strife) had cast the prize of Glorie betwixt the Master and his slave, which if the servant from the Master bore, in envie hee should no­thing gain but blows: and if hee failed in the Enterprize, like stripes would punish his Presumtion, which disadvan­tage to avoid, Hee first desir'd the People to procure his libertie; the People heeron all with one assent, re­quired Xanthus to enlarge his slave, as a peculiar Grace unto the Citie. Xanthus not verie forward to the mo­tion was checked by the President, assuring him, if hee did not assent thereto, to make it their own Act. Xan­thus perceiving no evasion, yielded his right, which by the common Crier published; Aesop the Augure thus [Page] interpreted: The Eagle, as the King of Birds, impli'd a Regal Power; The publick Seal, the Government of their State, the ravishing of the same, and fal thereof into a Bond­mans brest, prefigur'd the Power aforesaid should force from them their Libertie, reducing them to servilitie. The Sa­mians on this Presage fil'd with grief, dissolv'd: Soon after Letters had from Craesus King of Lydia, by which they summon'd were to bee his Tributaries, which not accepted, to prepare for War. The Samians doubtful what heerin to do, ere farther they proceeded, would consult with Aesop, who them assur'd; there was, as then, no Place for Councel left; since the more pow'rfull still must bee obeied; to which at present hee advized them, saying, That Fortune had in each man's life laid forth two severall waies: The one of Libertie, the Entrie whereof was diffi­cult and rough, but the end smooth and pleasant. The other was of servitude, whose entrie plain and easie was of access; but th'Issue thereof penable and rude. But his advice re­jected by the Samians, Craesus thereof had soon intelli­gence who straight resolved to decree a war against the Samians: But was advis'd by his Ambassadors, to faci­late his Victorie, first to draw Aesop from them; which moved to the Samians by a second Embassie with releas of their purpos'd tribute, was accepted of, resolving to deliver Aesop to their hands. Which known to Aesop, hee to the People publickly declar'd his liking to their Purpose▪ but for Instruction told them, Hee had a Fable to commend to them, which was, When Beast had one with other conference, the Wolvs wag'd war against the Sheep, who had the Dogs for their confederates, 'gainst whom the Wolvs not able to prevail, sent to the Sheep an Embassie; whereby was promist peace, if they the Dogs would yield up to their hands, to which the Sheep assenting, became unto the Wolvs an easie Preie. The sens heerof was by the Sami­ans [Page] quickly understood, who thereon would retract their first intention. But Aesop not assenting thereto, with Promiss to bee helpfull to them, was disinist with the Ambassadors, who to Craesus brought, the Spectacle at first incensed him with scorn, so vile a thing should bee an obstacle to his Enterprize. Aesop said to the King (with great Humilitie) hee nor by force, nor by necessi­tie was compel'd to his Presence, but of his own Ac­cord; therefore desir'd his Pardon and Libertie to speak: which granted; Aesop said; A certain man, who Locust sought to slaie, by chance had took a Grashopper, whom hee about to kil; the Grashopper desired him, not to destroie him without anie Caus: shee did the Ear no hurt, nor yet in o­ther Action injure him; the motion of her little tongue did but delight the Passenger. Th'Allusion heerof making to himself, surpriz'd the King with wonder and delight; who promis'd Aesop, hee would his Life not onely, but his Fate enlarge, commanding him to ask what hee de­sir'd, it should forthwith confirmed bee to him. Aesop requested onely hee to the Samians would bee reconcil'd; of which the King assuring him, Aesop tendred him thanks, and thereon writ these Fables, which to the King presented by him esteemed highly were, and from that time preserv'd to future Ages. Soon after Aesop re­ceiving letters to the Samians from the King, conteining that hee was in favor unto Aesop reconcil'd to them, with rich Gifts laden, to Samos sail'd again. The Samians at his return, receiving him in triumph, brought severall Crowns to him as their deliverer: whereon the Kings Concessions to them published, Aesop for this Benefi­cence, was highly by the State rewarded. From whence departing. Aesop began his travels, disputing where hee came with the Philosophers. Coming to Babylon the reputation of his wisdom, brought him in great favor [Page] with Licerus King thereof. In which times it was a cu­stom 'mongst those Princes were at Peace together to send Aenigma's or dark Sentences one unto the other, and who resolved them, contracted tribute from the tender gain'd, or failing forfeited to him; In which, by Aesop's help Lycerus both enlarg'd his Fame and Treasurie, Ae­sop beeing childeless, adopted for his son, one Ennus a young man of noble Familie, who falling into league with Aesop's Concubine, soon after was by him expelled from his hous. Ennus heeron incenst, a letter forg'd with Aesop's hand and seal, wherein expressed was Aesop's contriving with Licerus adversares to his Prejudice, in the Solution of their Problems, which by him to Licerus shewn, hee facile of belief, yielded no truce to ire; but forthwith strict command gave to Hermippo, hee should kill Aesop without more delaie. Hermippo beeing Aesop's friend belied not the Character, concealing Aesop in a secret vault, whither still privately hee convei'd him food, while Ennus by Licerus order seis'd on his Possessi­ons; Soon after this, Nectenabo King of Aegypt hearing Aesop was slain, took that advantage, to send unto Lice­rus Problematical Letters; requiring him to send him such Architects, could build a Tow'r might touch, nor Heaven, nor Earth and there with a man, that should resolv, what ever hee should ask, which if hee did, hee tribute should receive if not paie to him. Licerus on receit heerof, reflecting on the prejudice hee had (in Ae­sop's loss) procured to his proper Interests, perplexed was in minde; which Hermippo distinguishing, laid hold on this occasion as auspitious, to let Licerus know, Aesop was by him yet preserv'd alive, least that the execution of his sudden wrath, might after by him bee repented of. At which Licerus overcom with joie for Aesop sent, with floods of tears restoring him to favor. Aesop his [Page] accusation knowing, and licenst now to speak, soon clear'd himself in the discoverie of his Dilator's treach­erie, for which Ennus by the King condemn'd to die, the sentence was repeal'd by Aesop's sute. who him receiv'd a­gain to his Adoption: with gratious Councel him admo­nishing, which gentle usage pierced so much his woun­ded Conscience with the horror of his former guilt, that in the inward conflict thereof hee soon after died. Lycerus communicating to Aesop the Contents of Necie­nabo's letter. Aesop the reat smiling, adviz'd him to re­turn for Answer, That in the insuing Spring, hee should receiv from him what hee requir'd: With which the Am­bassador dismist. Aesop in the Interim four chois Eag­lets dressed so to hand, that each could bear into the up­per Region of the Aër a Childe suspended in a Basket, and therewith make descent at his discretion. With this strange Aequipage, the Winter past, Aesop to Egypt came, where in the Presence of th' Egyptian King, hee let his Eaglets with their carriages in a square figure flie; who in the Aër exalted the Boies cal'd out to them that were below to bring up the materials for the Structure. The King abasht, said, Hee no flying men had for the carriages; and in this part of his demand confest himself convinc't. Next follow'd the Aenigma's, the first propounded by the King, was, That hee had in his Possession certain Mares, who hearing the Hors neigh in Babylon, forthwith conceiv'd. Aesop desiring respite till th'insuing daie, for the Soluti­on; commanded his Attendants to take a Cat, which tied in a line, to draw her through the Streets, pursuing her with blows; This put in execution, The Egyptians, who worshipped this Animal, seeing her thus miserably treated, ran forthwith to her succour, and from her Per­secutors rescuing her, complaint made of the outrage to the King; who Aesop summoning requir'd the reason, [Page] why what they held in Reverence, hee us'd with such conteme. Aesop replied, That Cat had but last Night don to Licerus a signal displeasure, devouring a gene­rous fighting Cock, hee had in great esteem. The King repli'd; That was impossible, the Cat could in one night so long a voiage make: at which Aesop smiling, said; So it likewise was, that Mares should at that distance bee conceiv'd with Fole. The King well pacified heerin, ap­proved Aesop's ingenuitie. And for farther trial, assem­bled the chief Sophisters of his Realm, inviting them with Aesop to a Feast; at which one of them addressing himself to Aesop, said, Hee by his God was sent to ask a Question of him. Aesop replied, Hee both his God abused and himself; God had no need of man's intelli­gence; whereat hee silene't; Another thus accosted him; There was a mightie temple in which a Column stood twelv Cities had each one by thirtie beams supported, round which still ran two women. Aesop repli'd, With them, even children could expound such riddles. The Tem­ple was the world; the Column was the year, the twelv Cities thereon, were the twelv months thereof; the thirtie Columns supported each were daies; the women that surrounded it continually were might and daie, which alternately succeed­ed each other. The King heerat perplext hee could not Aesop foil, assembled all his Peers; to consult with them how hee might avoid the paiment of his tribute, made forfeit to Licerus by Aesop's subtiltie. One of them said, They Aesop should enjoin to propound a Question to them, that they neither knew, nor ever heard. Th'ad­vice receiv'd, and of Aesop requir'd; who having respite till the following daie, framed a Contract, in which Necienabo confest himself a thousand talents indebted to Licerus, which at th'appointed time close seal'd deliver'd to the King in presence of his Nobles (ere the inscripti­on [Page] was unfolded, to o'rethrow Aesop's purpose) they said, they all had that oft heard and knew it to bee true. Ae­sop repli'd, in respect of the paiment, hee was engaged to them for their testimonie. The King the writing open­ing and purusing, said, Hee nothing was indebted to Li­cerus, all they were present could it testifie; which, all confirming, said; They never knew nor heard of such a Matter. Aesop replied, If that were so, they had re­ceived what they sought of him. Nectenabo heeron ap­plauding Aesop's readie wit; tendered to him the con­tracted tribute, and from his Court dismissed with much honor. Aesop return'd to Babylon, recited to Licerus what had past, presenting him his tribute hee had won. Licerus heeron to perpetrate to after ages Aesop's Fame and Memorie, in honor of him caussed his Statue to bee erected in Gold. Soon after Aesop obteining licence of the King to travel, on promiss to return and end his daies with him; passed thorough Greece with great ap­plaus, and unto Delphos came: The Delphians curious to hear, but careless of what heard: made small Ac­count of him: In reproof whereof, Aesop compared them to a Log at Sea. which floting on the instable Bil­lows, seemed to them that were remote from it som­thing of ualue; but when viewed neer at hand was found contemtible. The Delphians hearing this, ap­pli'd the Allusion thereof to themselvs; which seised them with jealousie, that Aesop might this Judgment of them publish through the world, which if hee did the high esteem all held of him would much eclyps their Glorie: this to prevent, they privately took from Apol­lo's shrine a Cup of Gold and secretly conveied it among Aesop's Goods; who on his departure thence was ap­prehended and accus'd of Sacrilege: which Aesop deny­ing, they unbound his carriages, discovering to the tu­mult [Page] they had rais'd the Cup; whereon Aesop into Pri­son cast, his Judges his Accusers beeing, was soon con­victed, and to supplice led; where calling to the mul­titude, hee said; When Beasts could speak; the Mous made friends unto the Frog, invited him to Dinner; to gra­tulate which the Frog the ensuing daie would have the Mous his Guest, and to avoid the danger of the Passage to his Cell, which was a Pool, the Mous unskil'd in swimming, the Frog his foot unto his Guests had fastened by a line, therewith to train him over; but having won the deepest of the flood, the Frog plung'd over head and ears the Mous: who drowning said; Hee treacherously was slain; but a more powerfull would avenge his death. When dead, the Mous laie floting on the stream was by an Eagle trussed for her Preie, and with him the suspending Frog, who likewise with the in­jur'd was devour'd. The Application heerto Aesop made was that Licerus and all Greece, would for his death like vengeance take of them. But this restreining not the Del­phians from their purpos'd Act: Aesop fled from them to Apollo's Temple for his Sanctuarie: But from thence also forced to the Precipice again. Aesop attemting far­ther to dissuade them; said; An Eagle had pursu'd a Hare into a Beetle's Den, the distrest Beast requiring sbel­ter; the Beetle praid the Eagle not to despise her impotence; but spare the refug'd Hare. The Eagle yet insulting more, struck down the Beetle with her wings, and made the Hare her unresisted Preie: The Beetle to revenge this outrage sought out the Eagle's Nest, and from thence cast her eggs unto the Earth; the Eagle to avoid this injurie shifted her Nest much higher then it was, yet not there also from her Foe secur'd: The Eagle beeing of Jove belov'd, took re­fuge in his bosom, the Beetle this perceiving, dirt gathered from the Earth, and in Joves bosom cash it amongst the egs: Jove of the eggs unmindfull, shaking off the dirt, cast both [Page] unto the Earth together, who reproving the Beetle for this revenge, as an indignitie to him. The Eagle arriv'd, and heard, by Jove was not excus'd; yet beeing unwilling that the Eagle's kinde should ceas, adviz'd them to bee recon­cu'd, but that accord soon broken; Jove transfer'd the sea­son of the Eagle's breeding to another time, in which the Beetle not able is to appear. The sens thereof Aesop to them, infer'd was, that they should not slight that God to whom hee fled, though but an image they had figured him, yet could not the impious scape his punishment: But this not availing also; Aesop thus concluded, A Husbandman, who in the Countrie had grown old, yet never saw the Citie, commanded his Domesticks to prepare for this his purpos'd Journie: who from their work not beeing to bee spared, in stead of Horses, as the more easie Beast, join'd Asses in a Car, and left them onely to the old Man's Dire­ction: as on his waie a hideous storm arose, whose obscure shrouds advanc't the distant Night: wherein the Asses er­ring, from off a steep rock overwhelm'd their Guide; who as hee fell, said, Jove, what had hee don, to merit such a shamefull end, not procur'd by the conduct of the generous Hors, or strenuous Mule, but of all Beast the most despi­sed Ass: Like Fate, said Aesop, did enlarge his Grief. Whereon yet more incenst, they turn'd him off the Pre­cipice; whose death beeing followed by an incessant Plague, the Delphians to their Oracle appealed for re­dress: from whence was answer made, they first should expiate the Crime of Aesop's death; of which they con­scious, erected to his Memorie a Monument. But the neighbouring Princes not satisfied heerwith, when in­form'd what had past, to Delphos came; where making strict enquirie into Aesop's Death, became severe aven­gers of the treacherous Murther.