Alan Menken & Glenn Slater
Fox in the Henhouse
MARLA
Out here in the country, we’re simple hearted hicks
All moony-eyed and innocent as fluffy little chicks
But though we ain’t so worldly, hell, most are dumb as rocks
We know that where there’s chickens, there’s bound to be a fox
JONAS
You got me wrong sister
MARLA
Do I?
Now me, I’m just a farm girl, I’ve barely left the nest:
City lights, the great wide world, ain’t seen ‘em on a test
But I’ve seen lots of foxes, enough to write a book!
And mister, I’m quite certain that I recognize your look:
You’re a fox in the henhouse, it’s clear as clear can be
The twinkling eyes, the devilish grin, the flash and filigree
But though you’re quick and cunning mister, I can guarantee:
A fox like you don’t fool a chick like me
JONAS
You got all that on your first read?
MARLA
Just by looking at the cover
JONAS
You still want to thumb the pages, don’t you?
MARLA
Now foxes, they look dashing
JONAS
Oh, yeah
MARLA
And foxes they talk sweet
JONAS
Uh huh
But foxes, they get hungry, and chicken’s what they eat
MARLA
Is that right?
Well, I may look like dinner
JONAS
Uh huh
MARLA
But me, I’m no one’s dupe
And I know what you’re doing creeping round this chicken coop
Now a fox like you, you’re thinking that chasing this chicken might be fun
JONAS
Yeah, a fox like me, I’m thinking about plucking those feathers one by one
MARLA
You’re thinking about sinking your teeth right in
JONAS
Let the juices runnin’ all down my chin!
MARLA
Bet you didn’t think you were talking to the county sheriff?
JONAS
County sheriff? You?
MARLA
Mm
This flock of mine, they’re suffering. They’re reeling from the drought
They want someone to save them. That’s why I want you out
Three days, fine, that I’ll give you, then go, go somewhere far
‘Cause me, I ain’t no chicken, but I know damn well what you are
You’re a fox in the henhouse, a crooked SOB
A travelin’ con who better move on and leave my people be
To mess with this here henhouse, you’ll regret it, watch and see
A fox like you don’t fool a chick like me