"No, I thank you," said he; "I can get plenty of that at home." The messenger returned to the chief, and reported the contemptuous refusal of the fox.
"Go back to him," said the chief, "and tell him we are going to have a nice fresh body,[48] and we will have it cooked in the most delicate manner possible." Pleased with the prospect of such a treat, the fox gave a very hearty assent to the second invitation.
The hour arrived, and he set off for the lodge of the chief to attend the feast.

The company were all prepared for him, for they made common cause with their friend who had been insulted.

As the fox entered, the guest next the door, with great courtesy, rose from his place, and begged the new-comer to be seated.

Immediately the person next him also rose, and insisted that the fox should occupy his place, as it was still nearer the fire--the post of honor.

Then the third, with many expressions of civility, pressed him to exchange with him; and thus, with many ceremonious flourishes, he was passed along the circle, always approaching the fire, where a huge cauldron stood, in which the good cheer was still cooking.