went into a farmyard to see if any poultry could be got; but, finding the people wary and the yard well secured, he was returning with a dejected countenance, when the farmer's dog accosted him thus: "Reynard, where have you been?"

"Ah! Mr. Mastiff," said the fox, "I have just been into the farmyard to see if any of my kindred were there."

"Did you find any?" said the mastiff.

"No, I did not; and that is the reason why I am returning," said the fox, and left the place.

"Ah," muttered the mastiff, "no liar but hath a plea ready-made for every turn!"