Here is the Fox's decision, word for word:
"The explanation of the Sheep cannot, under any circumstances, be accepted, for
all rogues are notoriously clever at concealing their real designs; and it appears
manifest, on due inquiry, that, on the aforesaid night, the Sheep was not
separated from the fowls. Fowls are exceedingly savoury, and opportunity
favoured. Therefore I decide, according to my conscience, that it is impossible
that the Sheep should have forborne to eat the fowls. The Sheep shall
accordingly be put to death. Its carcass shall be given to the court, and its fleece
be taken by the Plaintiff."
The Elephant in Favour
Once upon a time the Elephant stood high in the good graces of the Lion. The
forest immediately began to talk of the matter, and, as usual, many guesses were
made as to the means by which the Elephant had gained such favour.
"It is no beauty," say the beasts to each other, "and it is not amusing; and what
habits it has! what manners!"
Says the Fox, whisking about his brush, "If it had possessed such a bushy tail as
mine, I should not have wondered."
"Or, sister," says the Bear, "if it had gotten into favour on account of its claws,
no one would have found the matter at all extraordinary; but it has no claws at
all, as we all know well."
"Isn't it its tusks that have gotten it into favour?" thus the Ox broke in upon their
conversation. "Haven't they, perhaps, been mistaken for horns."
"Is it possible," said the Ass, shaking its ears, "that you don't know how it has
succeeded in making itself liked, and in becoming distinguished? Why, I have
guessed the reason! If it hadn't been remarkable for its long ears, it would never
in the world have gotten into favour."
The Sword-blade