Folk Tale

The Trees Protected

Translated From

Arbores in Deorum Tutela

AuthorPhaedrus
Book TitleFabulae Aesopiae
Publication Date41
LanguageLatin

Other Translations / Adaptations

Text titleLanguageAuthorPublication Date
Les arbres sous la protection des Dieux. French__
AuthorC. Smart
Book TitleThe Fables of Phaedrus
Publication Date1887
LanguageEnglish
OriginItaly

The gods took certain trees (th' affair Was some time since) into their care. The oak was best approved by Jove, The myrtle by the queen of love; The god of music and the day Vouchsafed to patronise the bay; The pine Cybele chanced to please, And the tall poplar Hercules. Minerva upon this inquired Why they all barren trees admired ? " The cause," says Jupiter, "is plain, Lest we give honour up for gain." " Let every one their fancy suit, I choose the olive for its fruit." The sire of gods and men replies, " Daughter, thou shalt be reckon'd wise By all the world, and justly too; For whatsover things we do, If not a life of useful days, How vain is all pretence to praise !" Whate'er experiments you try, Have some advantage in your eye.


Text view