Do what we may, they still prevail
And to correct them all our efforts fail.
(Krilov, Fables. Translated from the Russian for Fraser's Magazine.)
TWO Flies, determining to change
Their country, and abroad to range,
In order novel sights to see.
Explained their project to a Bee.
To her they stated
Their friend. Sir Parrot, had related
Of foreign parts such wondrous things.
They were resolved to use their wings.
There surely was no great temptation
Longer to stay in this dull nation,
Where everything was cold and dingy.
And folks grew every day more stingy!
"They grudge us e'en the smallest sup;
From us poor Flies they cover up
Both meat and drink; and fence, alas!
Their fruits of every kind with glass.
So are we treated by the wealthy.
And 'mongst the poor fare scarcely better.
Since Spiders there, our foes so stealthy,
Weave treacherous webs, our wings to fetter."
"Well, friends," the home-spun Bee replied,
"'Tis not for me your scheme to chide,
