Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—C

Cow's Tail

“Always behind, like a cow's tail.” “Tanquam coda vituli.” ( Petronius.)

The cow knows not the worth of her tail till she loses it,
and is troubled with flies, which her tail brushed off.

What we have we prize not to the worth
Whiles we enjoy it; but being lack'd and lost,
Why, then we rack the value.

Shakespeare: Much Ado about Nothing, iv.1.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Cow-lick
Cow
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