“The Wolf and The Dog” By Marie de France

1A wolf and dog met on the way While passing through the woods one day. The wolf looked closely at the dog, And then, began this dialogue: 5“Brother,” he said, “you look so fine! And oh, such fur! How it does shine!” The dog replied, “That’s very true; I eat quite well, a great deal, too. Each day I make my cozy seat 10While resting at my master’s feet Where daily I gnaw bones, and that Is what makes me so big and fat. If you would like to come with me, If to obey him you’ll agree— 15And act like me—you’ll have from this More food than you could ever wish.”

“I’ll do that! Sure!” the wolf replied. Together off they went, allied. Before they’d at the town arrived, 20The wolf looked at the dog and eyed The way the dog a collar wore And how a dragging chain he bore. “Brother,” he said, “how odd is that Thing ‘round your neck—I know not what.” 25“That’s my chain-leash,” the dog replied “with which all through the week I’m tied; For his possessions I would chew on, And many items I would ruin.

My master wants them all protected, 30And that’s why I’m tied and restricted. At night around the house I peer And make sure that no thieves draw near.” “What!” cried the wolf. “ By this you mean 35You can’t go out except with him! Well, you can stay! I won’t remain. I’ll never choose to wear a chain! I’d rather live as wolf, free, Than on a chain in luxury. 40I still can make a choice, and so You fare to town; to woods I’ll go.”A chain thus brought the termination Of friendship and fraternization.