232. Asinus Leoni Cantans et Lallans. Leo, rex animalium, semel quaesivit sibi ministros ut servirent ei in diversis officiis. Ingessit se asinus, dicens quod optime sciret cantare et lallare. Dixit leo, “Audiamus,” et asinus aperuit os suum et horribiliter recanavit. Et ait leo, “Miser, quare mentitus es, cum sonus tuus horribilis sit? Potius me a somno excitaret quam dormire faceret. Exeas cito de curia mea!”
M0232 (not in Perry). Source: Odo, Fable 68. This fable is not in Perry’s catalog; Perry was not systematic in his coverage of medieval sources. For a story where the donkey does find a place in the lion’s court, see #19. For the donkey’s lack of musical ability, see #217 or #866.
