The Worth of a Hare (Aesop)

The kingdom of all beasts did hold
A council great for young and old.

Each animal did then suggest
New laws they thought would serve them best.

So, many creatures concepts shared
That in the group they might be aired.

Aware of his low standing there,
A thought was offered by a hare:

“Regardless of a creature’s birth,
Each one should be of equal worth.”

This edict he did then propose
To see who might his words oppose.

The smaller creatures thought this grand,
And cheered as they did all then stand.

The lions sought to calm restore
And all let out a piercing roar.

Then all the lions gathered ‘round
To say, “small hare there, on the ground.

We only see your furry paws –
Where are your fangs? Where are your claws?”

In silence did the hare retreat.
He knew, on this, he had been beat.

---

Only fools propose new laws
Opposing those with sharper claws.

(Index references: Oxford-Gibbs 21, Perry 450)