The Old Hound

A HOUND, who in the days of his youth and strength had neveryielded to any beast of the forest, encountered in his old age aboar in the chase.  He seized him boldly by the ear, but couldnot retain his hold because of the decay of his teeth, so thatthe boar escaped.  His master, quickly coming up, was very muchdisappointed, and fiercely abused the dog.  The Hound looked upand said, "It was not my fault.  master:  my spirit was as good asever, but I could not help my infirmities.  I rather deserve tobe praised for what I have been, than to be blamed for what Iam."