Tales and Novels of J. de La Fontaine — Volume 19 by Jean de La Fontaine
page 8 of 19 (42%)
page 8 of 19 (42%)
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As if mere marble, though to nature true;
And I'm convinced you'll readily declare, Beyond nor art can reach, nor thought prepare; Just now I left her in the bath at ease: A judge you are, and shall the moment seize; Come, witness my felicity supreme; You know her beauties are my constant theme. AWAY they went, and Gyges much admired; Still more than that: in truth his breast was fired; For when she moved astonishment was great, And ev'ry grace upon her seemed to wait. Emotion to suppress howe'er he tried, Since he had promised what he felt to hide; To hold his tongue he wished, but that might raise Suspicions of designs and mystick ways. Exaggeration was the better part, And from the subject he would never start, But fully praised each beauty in detail, Without appearing any thing to veil. Gods! Gyges cried, how truly, king, you're blessed; The skin how fair--how charming all the rest! THIS am'rous conversation by the queen Was never heard, or she'd enraged have been; In ancient days of ignorance, we find, The sex, to show resentment, much inclined; In diff'rent light at present this appears, And fulsome praises ne'er offend their ears. |
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