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Might proudly boast. On man's bold arm robust
The tender Fair reclines with fondest trust:
With Nature's finest touch exulting glows
The manly breast which that fond aid bestows:
That first of generous joys on man bestow'd,
In Gothic Spain in all its fervour glow'd.
Then high burn'd honour; and the dread alarms
Of danger then assumed the dearest charms.
What for the Fair was dared or suffered, bore
A saint-like merit, and was envied more;
'Till led by love-sick Fancy's dazzled flight,
From Court to Court forth roam'd Adventure's Knight;
And tilts and tournaments, in mimic wars,
Supplied the triumphs and the honour'd scars
Of arduous battles for their country fought,
'Till the keen relish of the marvellous wrought
All wild and fever'd; and each peaceful shade,
With batter'd armour deckt, its Knight display'd,
In soothing transport, listening to the strain
Of dwarfs and giants, and of monsters slain;
