The Hare and the Cowherd (Aesop Ballad 16)

A hunter was in hot pursuit…
The hare did dodge past log and root.

Then scampered o’er a grassy field,
And hedge he found to act as shield.

A cowherd saw the hare dive through
And so the hiding place he knew.

The hare in pleading voice did say
“Please sir, do not give me away!”

The cowherd said, “you’re safe with me
And in a moment you’ll be free.”

The hunter soon came by that way,
And asked if had passed by his prey.

The cowherd lied, “I saw him pass,
And down the road he went, alas.”

But with a smile upon his face,
He motioned to the hiding place.

And then to make the hunter think,
The cowherd gave a knowing wink.

The hunter did not get the hint,
So down the road the man did sprint.

The hare, his hiding place did leave.
The cowherd, thanks thought to receive.

The cowherd said, “my furry friend –
Your life was spared, and did not end.

It seems you owe to me a debt.”
The hare replied, “no thanks you’ll get.

For ‘though your words gave me a chance,
I saw your arm and saw your glance.

Deceipt was fully half your game.
I rather think to give you blame.

That I’m so small is just your luck,
Or both your eye’s I’d like to pluck.

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While words may not a lie convey,
One’s actions may the truth betray.

(Index references: Oxford-Gibbs 387, Perry 22)