L'Estrange's translation (1692)
A SMITH AND HIS DOG
A Blacksmith took notice of a Cur he had, that would be perpetually sleeping, so long as his Master was at his Hammer; but whenever he went to Dinner, the Dog would be sure to make one. So he ask’d the Dog the Reason on’t. What’s the Meaning of it, says he, that so long as I’m at the Forge, you are still taking your Nap; but so soon as my Chops begin to walk, yours must be walking too for Company? There’s a time to sleep (says the Dog) and a time to wake; and every thing is well done that is done in due season.
THE MORAL. All Creatures do naturally look to the main Chance; that is to say, the Business of Food and Propagation.
Townsend's translation (1887)
The Brazier and His Dog
A Brazier had a little Dog, which was a great favorite with his master, and his constant companion. While he hammered away at his metals the Dog slept; but when, on the other hand, he went to dinner and began to eat, the Dog woke up and wagged his tail, as if he would ask for a share of his meal. His master one day, pretending to be angry and shaking his stick at him, said, "You wretched little sluggard! what shall I do to you? While I am hammering on the anvil, you sleep on the mat; and when I begin to eat after my toil, you wake up and wag your tail for food. Do you not know that labor is the source of every blessing, and that none but those who work are entitled to eat?"
