{"id":2041,"date":"2019-05-01T21:17:09","date_gmt":"2019-05-01T21:17:09","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/142.150.46.75\/poemsandfancies\/?p=2041"},"modified":"2019-05-02T03:45:45","modified_gmt":"2019-05-02T03:45:45","slug":"a-battle-between-king-oberon-and-the-pygmies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/?p=2041","title":{"rendered":"A Battle between King Oberon and the Pygmies"},"content":{"rendered":"

King Oberon, and the Pygmies tall and stout,
\nDid go to war; the cause was just no doubt,
\nFor Pygmy king, out of his kingdom brought
\nHis people, and<\/span>1<\/sup><\/a><\/span> another kingdom sought.
\nLike Goths and Vandals, they did range about\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 5
\nWith force, to find another kingdom<\/span>2<\/sup><\/a><\/span> out.
\nAt last into the Fairy land they went,
\nFor to that fertile place their hearts were bent.
\n\u201cThis is the place,\u201d said they, \u201cwhere pleasures flow,<\/span>3<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nAnd where delight, like flow\u2019rs on banks, doth grow.<\/span>4<\/sup><\/a><\/span>. \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 10
\nHere let us pitch, and try if fortune will
\nJoin with our courage, all our foes to<\/span>5<\/sup><\/a><\/span> kill.\u201d
\nThen on they went, and plundered everywhere;
\nThe Fairies all ran crying in great fear,
\nAnd fire on all their beacons plac\u00e8d high,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 15
\nWhich warning is to give, when danger\u2019s nigh.
\nWhereat King Ob\u2019ron<\/span>6<\/sup><\/a><\/span> a great<\/span>7<\/sup><\/a><\/span> war prepared,
\nWhich made his queen and all his court afeared;<\/span>8<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nHis council grave and wise he straight did<\/span>9<\/sup><\/a><\/span> call,
\nWhich came with formal busy faces all,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 20
\nWhere<\/span>10<\/sup><\/a><\/span> everyone did speak their mind full free,
\nDisputing much; at last all did<\/span>11<\/sup><\/a><\/span> agree:
\n\u201cIn war,\u201d said they, \u201c\u2019tis better that we die,
\nThan to be slaves unto our enemy.\u201d
\nThen said the King, \u201can Army we must raise,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 25
\nIn which I\u2019ll die,\u201d said he, \u201cor win the bays.\u201d
\nStraight officers of all degrees were made,
\nTo lead and rule, encourage<\/span>12<\/sup><\/a><\/span> and persuade,
\nAnd thus they mustered all their army<\/span>13<\/sup><\/a><\/span> stout
\nTo meet their en\u2019my, and to beat<\/span>14<\/sup><\/a><\/span> them out.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 30
\nWell armed they were, and put in good array,
\nWhich made them fight with courage all that day.
\nTheir trumpets were made of small silver wire,
\nCalling the horse to charge, or to retire.
\nThese horses for war were grasshoppers large,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 35
\nOn which they rode<\/span>15<\/sup><\/a><\/span> and bravely did<\/span>16<\/sup><\/a><\/span> discharge.
\nTheir<\/span>17<\/sup><\/a><\/span> saddles were of a velvet peach skin;
\nTheir bridles were small strings which spiders<\/span>18<\/sup><\/a><\/span> spin;
\nBesides, their stirrups, which their feet in stayed,<\/span>19<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nOf a green rush, round like a ring, were made.<\/span>20<\/sup><\/a><\/span>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 40
\nOf small cockle-shells their targets were made,<\/span>21<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nAnd for their long swords<\/span>22<\/sup><\/a><\/span> a rosemary blade.
\nTheir flags, colored flowers glorious to see,<\/span>23<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nGive several sweet smells when flying they be.<\/span>24<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nAnd how they were armed, it well did appear:<\/span>25<\/sup><\/a><\/span>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 45
\nIn a bean\u2019s hull, just like a cuirassier.<\/span>26<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nTheir guns were pipes of glass, slender and small;<\/span>27<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nTheir bullets were round seeds to shoot withall.<\/span>28<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nTheir drums of filbert skins were very strong,<\/span>29<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nAnd wheaten straws, for sticks to beat thereon.<\/span>30<\/sup><\/a><\/span>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 50
\nTheir van, their rear,<\/span>31<\/sup><\/a><\/span> their left wing, and their right,
\nWere plac\u00e8d so, as they saw good to fight.
\nTheir colors flying, and their drums when<\/span>32<\/sup><\/a><\/span> beat,
\nTheir trumpets sounding, none sought a retreat.
\nThe forms and files<\/span>33<\/sup><\/a><\/span> the Pygmies placed themselves\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 55
\nWere<\/span>34<\/sup><\/a><\/span> like in figure unto mussel shells,
\nTo pierce through en\u2019mies, and give<\/span>35<\/sup><\/a><\/span> way to friends,
\nThe midst being broad, and sharp at<\/span>36<\/sup><\/a><\/span> the two ends.
\nBut Fairies like a half moon fought, that so<\/span>37<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nWhen both ends meet, they might encircle th\u2019foe,<\/span>38<\/sup><\/a><\/span> \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 60
\nWhere in the midst King Oberon rode<\/span>39<\/sup><\/a><\/span> full brave,
\nFor<\/span>40<\/sup><\/a><\/span> he the honor of this day shall have.
\nThus this warrior in<\/span>41<\/sup><\/a><\/span> armor bright and strong,
\nAs foremost man, his soldiers led<\/span>42<\/sup><\/a><\/span> along.
\nThen spake he to them in a temper meek:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 65
\n\u201cThese enemies,\u201d said he, \u201cour ruin seek.
\nGo on all you brave born, and valiant bred,
\nAnd fight your enemies<\/span>43<\/sup><\/a><\/span> till they be dead!
\nLet not your foes with scorn upbraid your flight,
\nBut let them see you can with courage<\/span>44<\/sup><\/a><\/span> fight,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 70
\nAnd teach them what their folly rash hath brought
\nUpon themselves, when they this kingdom sought.
\nBut O, vain princes,<\/span>45<\/sup><\/a><\/span> that for glory seek,<\/span>46<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nWhich will not let poor subjects in peace keep.<\/span>47<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nFoolish ambition sets the world on fire,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 75
\nWhich ruins all to compass its desire.
\nI only fight to keep what is my own,
\nAnd not to rob another kingly throne.
\nBut if this quarrel can\u2019t decided be,<\/span>48<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nI hand to hand will fight my enemy.\u201d<\/span>49<\/sup><\/a><\/span>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 80
\nWith that he sent a<\/span>50<\/sup><\/a><\/span> herald stout and bold,
\nWhich to King Pygmy he this message told,
\nWhich was, King Ob\u2019ron<\/span>51<\/sup><\/a><\/span> him a challenge sent,
\nTo save their men, and much blood to prevent,
\nThat they two might a duel<\/span>52<\/sup><\/a><\/span> fight alone,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 85
\nAnd let both armies all<\/span>53<\/sup><\/a><\/span> the while look on.
\nThen laughed King Pygmy,<\/span>54<\/sup><\/a><\/span> \u201cWhat\u2019s your king,\u201d said he,
\n\u201cThat in a<\/span>55<\/sup><\/a><\/span> duel hopes to conquer me?
\nI came not here a single strength to try,
\nA kingdom for to win, or else to die.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 90
\nI prouder am, my subjects\u2019 strength to show,
\nWhere<\/span>56<\/sup><\/a><\/span> by direction they my skill may know.
\nHerald, go back, and tell your king from me
\nHe\u2019ll know my strength when pris\u2019ner<\/span>57<\/sup><\/a><\/span> he shall be.\u201d
\nThen spake he to his men in voice full<\/span>58<\/sup><\/a><\/span> high:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 95
\n\u201cHere\u2019s none,\u201d said he, \u201cI hope this day will fly.
\nYou know, my soldiers, we came here to fight
\nNot from<\/span>59<\/sup><\/a><\/span> ambition, or through<\/span>60<\/sup><\/a><\/span> envy\u2019s spite,
\nBut we by famine, with a<\/span>61<\/sup><\/a><\/span> meager face,
\nWere<\/span>62<\/sup><\/a><\/span> sent about to seek a fertile place.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 100
\nThen here\u2019s a land<\/span>63<\/sup><\/a><\/span> which needs not be manured,
\nAnd we are<\/span>64<\/sup><\/a><\/span> people not to work inured,
\nFor we by nature no great pains can<\/span>65<\/sup><\/a><\/span> take,
\nNor by our<\/span>66<\/sup><\/a><\/span> sweat a livelihood out make.
\nFor who would live in pain, or grief, or care,\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 105
\nAnd always of their<\/span>67<\/sup><\/a><\/span> goods would<\/span>68<\/sup><\/a><\/span> stand in fear?
\nWho lives in trouble is<\/span>69<\/sup><\/a><\/span> not very wise,
\nSince in the grave there do no troubles<\/span>70<\/sup><\/a><\/span> rise.
\nThen let us fight e\u2019en<\/span>71<\/sup><\/a><\/span> for sweet pleasure\u2019s sake,
\nOr let us die, that we no care may take.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 110
\nThus did the kings their<\/span>72<\/sup><\/a><\/span> soldiers\u2019 courage raise,
\nAnd in orations did<\/span>73<\/sup><\/a><\/span> their valor praise.<\/span>74<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nThen did they both in order, rank, and file
\nPrepare themselves each other for to spoil.
\nTheir horses stout, whereon they rode i\u2019th\u2019field,<\/span>75<\/sup><\/a><\/span>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 115
\nWould<\/span>76<\/sup><\/a><\/span> die under their burthen, but not yield.
\nIn caprioles those<\/span>77<\/sup><\/a><\/span> grasshoppers did<\/span>78<\/sup><\/a><\/span> move,
\nBy which their<\/span>79<\/sup><\/a><\/span> riders\u2019 skill they soon would<\/span>80<\/sup><\/a><\/span> prove.
\nSome think for war it is an air unfit,<\/span>81<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nWhose motion swift lets not the rider<\/span>82<\/sup><\/a><\/span> fight\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 120
\nOr take his turns, and vantages<\/span>83<\/sup><\/a><\/span> to have,
\nUnless by leaping high himself<\/span>84<\/sup><\/a><\/span> can<\/span>85<\/sup><\/a><\/span> save.
\nBut they do err, for in some case \u2019tis<\/span>86<\/sup><\/a><\/span> good,
\nThough not in all, if truly understood.
\nWhat\u2019s in the world that\u2019s to all use employed,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 125
\nBut at some times and seasons is denied?
\nFire and water,<\/span>87<\/sup><\/a><\/span> which are the life of all,<\/span>88<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nCan only serve in their due time and call.
\nSo some may say<\/span>89<\/sup><\/a><\/span> this air of horsemanship
\nIs<\/span>90<\/sup><\/a><\/span> good, hills<\/span>91<\/sup><\/a><\/span> of dead men to overleap.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 130
\nFor if that they go low<\/span>92<\/sup><\/a><\/span> upon the ground,
\nWhere dead men, horse, and arms are strew\u00e8d<\/span>93<\/sup><\/a><\/span> round,
\nOr else in heaps they lie, like to<\/span>94<\/sup><\/a><\/span> a wall,
\nThe horse will stumble with the man, and<\/span>95<\/sup><\/a><\/span> fall.
\nThus horses of man\u00e8ge,<\/span>96<\/sup><\/a><\/span> taught in measure,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 135
\nMany do think are<\/span>97<\/sup><\/a><\/span> only fit for pleasure
\nAnd not for war, where no use for<\/span>98<\/sup><\/a><\/span> them is,
\nAs though<\/span>99<\/sup><\/a><\/span> their rules did make them go amiss.
\nBut they\u2019re<\/span>100<\/sup><\/a><\/span> mistaken, for like men they\u2019re taught,
\nFor to obey their rider<\/span>101<\/sup><\/a><\/span> as they ought:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 140
\nTo stop, to go, to leap, to run, and yet
\nObey the heel, the hand, the wand, the bit.
\nBeside, they\u2019re taught their passions<\/span>102<\/sup><\/a><\/span> to abate,
\nNot to be resty<\/span>103<\/sup><\/a><\/span> with fear, anger, hate,<\/span>104<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nAnd by applause, great courage they have got,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 145
\nThat they dare go upon a cannon shot.
\nNot that they senseless into dangers<\/span>105<\/sup><\/a><\/span> run,
\nFor horses cowardly danger do<\/span>106<\/sup><\/a><\/span> shun,
\nAnd are so full of fears as they will shake,
\nAnd will not go, which proves their hearts do quake. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 150
\nBesides, all airs in war are very fit,
\nAs curvets, demi-voltes, and pirouette,<\/span>107<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nAnd<\/span>108<\/sup><\/a><\/span> going back, and forward, turning round,
\nSideways, both high and low upon the ground.
\nSometimes in a large circle<\/span>109<\/sup><\/a><\/span> compass take,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 155
\nAnd then with art, a lesser circle make.
\nBut horses that unlearned are in<\/span>110<\/sup><\/a><\/span> this way,
\nMay march straight forth, or in one place may stay.
\nSo men, when they do fight, having no skill,
\nMay venture life, but few may chance to<\/span>111<\/sup><\/a><\/span> kill. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 160
\nFor \u2019tis not blows and thrusts which<\/span>112<\/sup><\/a><\/span> do the feat,
\nOr going forward, or by a retreat;
\nMan<\/span>113<\/sup><\/a><\/span> must the center be, his sword the line,
\nHis feet his compass, with his strength to join.
\nThese are the arts for horse, and men of war,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 165
\nUnless with stratagems they think to scare,<\/span>114<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nWhich shows more wit than courage in the field;
\nSo \u2019tis to run away, or else to yield.
\nBut here the bodies of each army\u2019s knit
\nSo close, as skin unto the flesh doth<\/span>115<\/sup><\/a><\/span> sit.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 170
\nNo stratagems were used<\/span>116<\/sup><\/a><\/span> to have men slain,
\nBut they did fight upon an open plain.
\nFor those that use slight stratagems in wars
\nNo fighters are, but cruel murderers.
\nNor is it bravely done, as some think \u2019tis,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 175
\nFor every petty thief has skill in this.
\nNay,<\/span>117<\/sup><\/a><\/span> thieves more courage in their actions<\/span>118<\/sup><\/a><\/span> show,
\nWho<\/span>119<\/sup><\/a><\/span> if their plots do fail must die, they know.
\nWarriors\u2019 designs found out, they do not care,
\nBecause no hanging for that act they fear.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 180
\nThey\u2019ll say \u2019tis different, thus foes<\/span>120<\/sup><\/a><\/span> to use,
\nFor thieves by their deceit their<\/span>121<\/sup><\/a><\/span> friends abuse.
\nBut \u2019tis not so,<\/span>122<\/sup><\/a><\/span> for cozenage is the thief,
\nAnd of that order generals are the chief.
\nFighting\u2019s the soldier\u2019s trade, not to entrap,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 185
\nNor, like the fox, with craft the prey t\u2019entrap,<\/span>123<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nBut kill or pursue with swords in their hands,
\nWithout any<\/span>124<\/sup><\/a><\/span> fraud or treacherous<\/span>125<\/sup><\/a><\/span> bands.
\nJust so fought these brave valiant cavaliers,
\nAs it by their unhappy end<\/span>126<\/sup><\/a><\/span> appears,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 190
\nFor they did join, and fierce together fight,
\nWhich was to all a lamentable sight.
\nSome lay upon the ground, without a head,
\nOthers did gasping lie,<\/span>127<\/sup><\/a><\/span> but not quite dead.
\nTheir groans were heard, and cries of several notes;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 195
\nSome ruttling lay, with thick blood in their throats.
\nHere a headpiece lay,<\/span>128<\/sup><\/a><\/span> there a corslet thrown,
\nBodies so mangled that none could be known.
\nRivers of blood like to a full high tide,
\nOr like a sea where shipwrecked bodies died.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 200
\nAnd their laborious breaths<\/span>129<\/sup><\/a><\/span> such mists did raise
\nIt<\/span>130<\/sup><\/a><\/span> made a cloud, which<\/span>131<\/sup><\/a><\/span> darkened the sun\u2019s rays.
\nWith several noises that rebounded far,
\nArmies of echoes were heard in the air.<\/span>132<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nHere bodies hid with smoke, smothered, lay dead,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 205
\nWhile formless sounds were in the air outspread.<\/span>133<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nThus were they earnest and active in their<\/span>134<\/sup><\/a><\/span> fight,
\nAs if to kill or die were a delight.
\nHere beasts and men both in their blood lay mashed,
\nAs if<\/span>135<\/sup><\/a><\/span> a French cook had them<\/span>136<\/sup><\/a><\/span> minced and<\/span>137<\/sup><\/a><\/span> hashed, 210
\nOr did their blood unto<\/span>138<\/sup><\/a><\/span> a jelly boil
\nThat he might<\/span>139<\/sup><\/a><\/span> make a bouillon of the spoil,
\nFor Nature\u2019s table several dishes brings,
\nBy her directions in transforming things.
\nAt last the Pygmies found themselves quite spent,\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 215
\nAnd of their war begun now to repent,
\nWhich made their king, though little, yet at length
\nTo<\/span>140<\/sup><\/a><\/span> call to Oberon king to try his strength:
\n\u201cLet\u2019s here,\u201d said he, \u201cour skill and fortunes try,
\nTo conquer<\/span>141<\/sup><\/a><\/span> one, or both in graves to lie.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 220
\n\u201cContent,\u201d said Oberon king. \u201cThough most unjust
\nYou have yourself into my kingdom thrust,
\nYet will I not refuse this offer bold,
\nAnd if I live, this day will sacred hold.\u201d
\nThen like two lions fallen out for prey,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 225
\nEncountered they,<\/span>142<\/sup><\/a><\/span> not yielding any way.
\nTheir bright sharp swords with motion quick did fly,<\/span>143<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nLike subtle lightning in each other\u2019s eye.<\/span>144<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nKing Pygmy, he was strong,<\/span>145<\/sup><\/a><\/span> two handfuls tall,
\nBut Oberon king was low, and very small.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 230
\nYet was he dextrous in his skillful art,
\nAnd by that means struck Pygmy near the heart,
\nWhose blood ran<\/span>146<\/sup><\/a><\/span> warm and trickling down his side,
\nThat where he stood, the grass was purple dyed.
\nThen leaning on his sword, as out of breath,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 235
\nSaid he to<\/span>147<\/sup><\/a><\/span> Ob\u2019ron,<\/span>148<\/sup><\/a><\/span> \u201cI have got my death.\u201d
\nGrew faint, then sinking on the ground did lie,
\nFinding his soul would from his body<\/span>149<\/sup><\/a><\/span> fly,
\nSaying, \u201cKing Ob\u2019ron, pray do<\/span>150<\/sup><\/a><\/span> mercy show,
\nAnd let my army freely from you go.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 240
\nAnd those that here lie slain, pray<\/span>151<\/sup><\/a><\/span> let them have
\nJust rites in burial, and their bones i\u2019th\u2019grave,<\/span>152<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nThat their free souls in quiet peace may sleep,
\nAnd for this act the gods your fame will keep.
\nI care nor grieve not for my own sad fall,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 245
\nBut for my subjects that are ruined all.\u201d
\nAnd in a deep-fetched sigh, and hollow groan,
\nHis soul went forth unto a place unknown.
\nWhen that<\/span>153<\/sup><\/a><\/span> his soldiers heard their king was dead,
\nTheir hearts did fail, yet none of them there fled,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 250
\nBut to him ran,<\/span>154<\/sup><\/a><\/span> like shuttles in a loom,
\nAnd with their bodies did his corpse entomb.
\nFor through their loyal breast they dug<\/span>155<\/sup><\/a><\/span> their grave,
\nBecause their king a monument should have.
\nSo all did die; no story yet hath shown\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 255
\nThat ever any Pygmies more were<\/span>156<\/sup><\/a><\/span> known.
\nThen did their wives with sighs lament their falls,
\nAnd with their tears did strew their funerals;
\nThose<\/span>157<\/sup><\/a><\/span> tears did mix with blood upon the ground,
\nWhere rubies since hath<\/span>158<\/sup><\/a><\/span> in the Earth been found.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 260
\nTheir bodies moist to vapor rarified,
\nAnd now in clouds do near the sun reside.
\nWhen they their grief unto remembrance call,
\nThose sullen clouds in show\u2019ring tears do fall.
\nTheir sighs are winds, that do<\/span>159<\/sup><\/a><\/span> blow here and there, \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 265
\nAnd all their bodies transmigrated<\/span>160<\/sup><\/a><\/span> are.
\nUnhappy battle!<\/span>161<\/sup><\/a><\/span> to destroy a race
\nThat on the earth deserved the chiefest place,
\nFor they were valiant, and did love their king,
\nWithout dispute obeyed in everything.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 270
\nNature did pity much<\/span>162<\/sup><\/a><\/span> their fortune sad;
\nThey<\/span>163<\/sup><\/a><\/span> by her favor a remembrance had,
\nFor she their bones did turn to marble white,
\nOf which are statues carved for man\u2019s delight,
\nAnd in some places are as gods adored,<\/span>164<\/sup><\/a><\/span>\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 275
\nWhere superstition idols doth afford.<\/span>165<\/sup><\/a><\/span>
\nBut Oberon king there built a temple<\/span>166<\/sup><\/a><\/span> high,
\nIn which he Fortune\u2019s<\/span>167<\/sup><\/a><\/span> name did magnify.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

King Oberon, and the Pygmies tall and stout, Did go to war; the cause was just no doubt, For Pygmy king, out of his kingdom brought His people, and another kingdom sought. Like Goths and Vandals, they did range about\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 5 With force, to find another kingdom out. At last into the … Continue reading A Battle between King Oberon and the Pygmies<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[218,230],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2041","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-part5","category-poems"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2041","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2041"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2041\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2059,"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2041\/revisions\/2059"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2041"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2041"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library2.utm.utoronto.ca\/poemsandfancies\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2041"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}