The fox declared that he could only settle so difficult a matter when plaintiff and defendant had assumed the relative positions which they occupied at the time of dispute.

Then when the snake was safely in the noose once more, Reynard decided that, knowing the serpent's treachery, the peasant might again set him loose, but need not do so unless he chose.
"'Here now is each of the parties Once again in his former state, nor has either the contest Won or lost.

The right, I think, of itself is apparent.
For if it pleases the man, he again can deliver the serpent Out of the noose; if not, he may let her remain and be hang'd there.
Free he may go on his way with honor and see to his business, Since she has proved herself false, when she had accepted his kindness; Fairly the man has the choice.

This seems to me to be justice, True to the spirit.

Let him who understands better declare it.'" [Illustration: REYNARD PREPARING FOR BATTLE .-- Kaulbach.] The king, remembering this celebrated judgment, and skillfully reminded by Frau Rueckenau of the bear's and the wolf's rapacity, consented at last to give Reynard a second hearing.