Tales and Novels of J. de La Fontaine — Volume 20 by Jean de La Fontaine
page 5 of 16 (31%)
page 5 of 16 (31%)
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If I resist a thing so sweet and kind,
I gain the end that pow'rs divine designed. HE with him let the charming belle remain; And confident he could at will abstain, Both Satan and the flesh at once defied: Two foes on mischief ready to decide. BEHOLD our saints together in a hut; Young Rustick, where a corner seemed to jut; A bed of rushes for the novice placed, Since sleeping on the floor had her debased, Who, yet unused to hardships, much must feel: 'Twas best that these should on her senses steal. A little fruit, and bread not over fine, She had for supper:--water too for wine. The hermit fasted; but the lady fed, And ate with appetite her fruit and bread. APART their place of rest, the maiden slept, But something quite awake the other kept: The Devil could by no means quiet rest, Till he should get admitted as a guest. He was received within the humble cell; The friar's thoughts were on his smiling belle, Her simple manners, fascinating grace, Complexion, age; each feature he would trace; The heaving bosom, and the beauteous charms; That made him wish to clasp her in his arms. |
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