Tales and Novels of J. de La Fontaine — Volume 06 by Jean de La Fontaine
page 9 of 18 (50%)
page 9 of 18 (50%)
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Though charms she had, still Damon would remain,
To her who had his heart a faithful swain: In vain she sought the genial soft caress: To Neria naught but friendship he'd express. Like Damon, husbands nowhere now are found, And I'm not certain, such were e'er on ground. I rather fancy, hist'ry is not here, What we would wish, since truth it don't revere, I nothing in the hippogriff perceive, Or lance enchanted, but we may believe; Yet this I must confess has raised surprise, Howe'er, to pass it will perhaps suffice; I've many passed the same,--in ancient days; Men different were from us: had other ways; Unlike the present manners, we'll suppose; Or history would other facts disclose. THE am'rous Neria to obtain her end, Made use of philters, and would e'en descend; To ev'ry wily look and secret art, That could to him she loved her flame impart. Our swain his marriage vow to this opposed; At which th' enchantress much surprise disclosed. You doubtless fancy, she exclaimed one day, That your fidelity must worth display; But I should like to know if equal care, Calista takes to act upon the square. Suppose your wife had got a smart gallant, Would you refuse as much a fair to grant? And if Calista, careless of your fame, |
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