Ivan Krylov
Crow and Fox

It is a commonplace
And we all know
That flattery is base,
And mean, and low.
However, all in vain,
And flatterers were, are, and will remain.

One day a Crow
Found luckily a decent piece
Of cheese,
After a long and forced fast.
To a big oak she flies fast
To have a breakfast
There in peace,
And almost has begun,
But was distracted by some thought
(I do not know, about what).
Unfortunately, a sly Fox has run
Not far. The cheese she smelt
And also sort of hungry felt.
Then to the oak-tree she did tiptoe,
Looking with admiration at the Crow,
And said in her most sugar voice,
"Sweetheart, I very much rejoice
In meeting such a beauty in our land.
Oh, what a neck, beak, feathers, and
An elegant smart wing!
I bet, just like an angel you should sing.
Well, darling, don't be shy,
Just try!
If in addition to looks that nice
You also have a pleasant voice,
The whole forest will rejoice
And you'll be valued thrice."

The speech like that
Completely reeled the head
Of the poor Crow,
And she did caw,
With all air in her craw.
Fell out the piece
Of cheese.
And our story ends at this.

Translated by Vladimir Gurvich