The lion, as the King of Beasts,
Roared from the royal cave.
He wished to see his subject folk,
Since he was near the grave,
Hoping to give his last commands
To rule the true and brave.
A sheep then hastened to the gate,
Which opened fast and wide.
A goat and calf soon followed him,
And next a deer applied.
But, all the while, a cautious fox
Was skulking well outside.
“Enter, my friend!” the lion called.
“Thank you!” returned the fox.
“Many go in, I see, but none
Come back of all those flocks.
Better be free than crave a key
To turn a door that locks!”
