An Old Dog complained that as he grew older and more frail the master reproached and beat him more despite a lifetime of service.
Rewards do not always accompany a lifetime of good work.
L’Estrange version
An old dog, that in his youth had led his master many a merry chase, and done him all the offices of a trusty servant, came at last, upon falling from his speed and vigour, to be loaden at every turn with blows and reproaches for it. Why sir, (says the dog) my will is as good as ever it was; but my strength, and my teeth are gone; and you might with as good a grace, and every jot as much justice, hang me up because I’m old, as beat me because I’m impotent.
Moral
The reward of affection and fidelity must be the work of another world: not but that the conscience of well-doing is a comfort that may pass for a recompense even in this; in despite of ingratitude and injustice.
[Note: This fable, while having different characters, is basically the same as An Ass and an Ungrateful Master. Also see The Old Hound.]