The Lion’s Court (Aesop)

Upon a time, there was a place
Where each and all did peace embrace.

The lion king was just and fair,
For all the creatures he did care.

And so to disagreements thwart
He often held a public court.

Then each would come unto his mount,
And to the king make full account.

The tiger did respect the deer,
Who now did not have cause to fear.

The leopard did not harm the goat.
In fact, on him, did rather dote.

The wolf no longer hunted sheep,
Who now could very peaceful sleep.

The timid hare was heard to say;
“’Tis true, we all are free today.”

And thus they lived in harmony,
The way a kingdom ought to be.

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If anyone must live in fear,
Then justice is but insincere.

(Aesop index references: Oxford-Gibbs 20, Perry 334)